Template based precursor route for the synthesis of CuInSe₂ nanorod arrays for potential solar cell applications

Abstract

SummaryPolycrystalline CuInSe2 (CISe) nanorods are promising for the fabrication of highly efficient active layers in solar cells. In this work we report on a nanocasting approach, which uses track-etched polycarbonate films as hard templates for obtaining three-dimensionally (3D) arranged CISe nanorod arrays. Copper and indium ketoacidoximato complexes and selenourea were employed as molecular precursors. Arrays of parallel isolated cylindrical pores of 100 nm nominal diameter and 5 μm length were used for the infiltration of the precursor solution under inert atmosphere, followed by drying, thermal conversion into a preceramic ‘green body’, a subsequent dissolution of the template, and a final thermal treatment at 450 °C. The nanorods that where synthesised in this way have dimensions equal to the pore sizes of the template. Investigation of the CuInSe2 nanorod samples by spectroscopic and diffraction methods confirmed a high purity and crystallinity, and a stoichiometric composition of the CISe ternary semiconductor compound.

Recent developments in the synthesis of nanostructured chalcopyrite materials and their applications: a review

“…A similar method has been utilised to fabricate high purity and crystalline, 3D CISe 2 NR arrays, again using polycarbonate hard template by the same authors. 128 Molecular precursors of copper and indium ketoacidoximato complexes and selenourea were used, enabling a high level of homogeneity of the NRs. In this work, porous lms with pore diameters of 100 nm and 5 mm lengths were used for inltration by the precursor solution in an inert atmosphere.…”

Plasma‐assisted self‐formation of nanotip arrays on the surface of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin films

“…A promising approach for improving solar cell characteristics is the nanostructuring of the surface of the functional layers and, in particular, the fabrication of one-dimensional arrays of vertical structures on the surface of the CIGS films. In order to create arrays of nanorods and nanowires on the surface of copper indium gallium selenide thin films currently there are used the processing techniques of ion bombardment [5], electrodeposition in cavities of porous structures of Al 2 O 3 [6] or track-etched polycarbonate films [7], Au-catalyzed vapor-liquid-solid growth [8], and pulsed laser deposition with Ni nanoparticles as catalyst [9]. The listed techniques are complex and often require long processing durations and high temperatures.…”