John Mark E.

Jandayan ME325 ME Elective 1

ME-3B March 25, 2024

Topic 11: Thin-Film Solar Cells

Thin-film solar cells are a type of photovoltaic technology distinguished by their

lightweight and flexible design, giving attractive alternatives to classic crystalline silicon cells.
These cells are made up of thin layers of semiconducting materials placed on substrates, which
allows for more effective material utilization and cheaper manufacturing costs. Transparent
conducting oxides (TCOs) are important in thin-film solar cell technology because they act as
transparent electrodes, allowing light to pass while also facilitating the flow of electrical current.
TCOs like indium tin oxide (ITO) are widely utilized because of their high transparency and
conductivity, making them excellent for use in transparent or semi-transparent solar panels.

III-V photovoltaic (PV) technology is another way to make thin-film solar cells. It uses
chemicals from the periodic table's groups III and V. These materials are more robust and
efficient than classic silicon-based cells, although their manufacturing is typically more
expensive. In contrast, thin-film silicon technology applies layers of silicon to flexible materials
or glass substrates. Thin-film silicon cells are more versatile and cost-effective than crystalline
silicon cells, but they are often less efficient. Thin-film silicon technology has promise in
applications such as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and portable electronic devices,
where lightweight and form factor flexibility is critical.

Chalcogenide solar cells, which use cadmium telluride (CdTe) and copper indium
gallium selenide (CIGS) technology, are another type of thin-film solar cell that has gained
popularity in recent years. These materials are very efficient and scalable, making them
appealing choices for large-scale solar projects. Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) are a distinct type
of thin-film solar cell made of organic materials, providing flexibility and the promise for low-
cost, large-area manufacturing techniques. Hybrid organic-inorganic solar cells mix organic and
inorganic elements to benefit from their respective benefits, such as increased efficiency and
stability. Overall, thin-film solar cells represent a broad set of technologies with the potential to
stimulate innovation and accelerate solar energy adoption around the world.