Physics of CdTe Photovoltaics: from Front to Back

摘要

We discuss physical mechanisms underlying the performance and stability of CdTe based thin-film PV. The processes in (ⅰ) photovoltaic junction, (ⅱ) back contact, (ⅲ) nonuniformities, (ⅳ) grain boundaries, and (ⅴ) light-induced degradation are addressed including their interactions. The physics of thin film PV turns out to be quite different from that of crystalline PV. High surface-volume ratio and lack of crystallinity result in strong interfacial effects, lateral nonuniformities, and shunting-like and adhesion instabilities in thin film structures. This paper is aimed at presenting a 'big picture'; also, it suggests practical ways of improving thin-film PV.