Formulation and Characterization of CuIn_1-xGa_xSe₂ Ink for Gravure Offset Printing

Abstract

CuIn1-x Ga x Se2 (CIGS) paste for gravure offset printing was formulated by changing the amount of additives to determine the critical factor for gravure offset printing quality. With the addition of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP), the viscosity and yield stress of CIGS ink decreased and shear thinning behavior disappeared. However, PVP effectively enhanced ink cohesion and elastic modulus, which critically affected the printability of the CIGS paste. Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment in air made the microstructure of CIGS film denser without a phase change or oxidation. The gravure offset printing technique and IPL treatment were considered a good combination for a continuous and fast CIGS film growth process.

Simultaneous formation of fine and large-area electrode patterns using screen-offset printing and its application to the patterning on adhesive materials

“…Thus, other printing methods, e.g., gravure-offset printing, have attracted considerable attention. [19][20][21] In gravure-offset printing, ink is filled into the grooves of an engraved plate using a doctor blade, then the ink is subsequently transferred to a silicone blanket; finally, the ink is transferred from the blanket to a final substrate. The ink solvents are absorbed into the blanket.…”