Abstract:

In the present study, ultra-thin layer ZnS is inserted in the structure of standard solar cell between CdS buffer layer and CZTS absorber layer to represent the Second Phase (SP) often forms on the top of CZTS. The impact of this layer on the performance of CZTS solar cells is illustrated by the diverse results obtained by simulation using SCAPS-1D. The formation of ZnS on the CZTS surface has harmful effects on the solar cells parameters where the conversion efficiency (η) decreases by 2%. When varying thickness of ZnS SP of 2% to 20% corresponding of the total absorber layer the efficiency decreases by about 0.65%. The ZnS SP can deteriorate the photovoltaic power conversion efficiency from 10.2% to levels of 8.8%, depending on the material buffer layer and the thickness of ZnS SP. Using the ZnS as buffer layer mitigates harmful effects of the ZnS secondary phase forms on the top of CZTS absorber layer.

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