Development of Thin Film Layers for Solar Cells through Advanced Deposition Methods

Abstract

This doctoral thesis explores the development of thin-film layers for photovoltaic devices using advanced deposition techniques. It encompasses three different chapters. The first work advanced NiOx thin-film development using spatial atomic layer deposition (SALD) using a novel precursor. The second project focused on antimony chalcogenides, particularly Sb₂Se₃. A two-step synthesis combining electroplating and selenization was used to fabricate the first Sb₂Se₃-based devices on ceramic substrates. To overcome limitations in device fabrication methods at laboratory scale, in the third chapter a low-temperature, non-vacuum metal deposition process was developed, enabling functional devices without high-vacuum equipment. This thesis bridges fundamental research and application, contributing new methods for scalable, efficient, and integration-ready solar technologies.