Electrodeposited molybdenum oxide coatings for thin film chalcopyrite solar cells

Abstract

Thin films of molybdenum oxide were electrodeposited onto zinc coated aluminum substrates at room temperature. XRD analysis of as deposited layers indicated the phase of MoO 2 while after annealing the films consisted of MoO 2.8 and MoO 3 . Raman scattering showed well defined specific vibrations that correspond to the crystalline orthorhombic phase α-MoO 3 , which is thermodynamically stable at this conditions as well as marginal peaks related to suboxides. Scanning electron microscopy showed fine hierarchical plates structure of the films. Current - voltage characteristics of thin film hetero-structures formed by Al/Zn substrate with electrodeposited MoO 3 and chalcopyrite CuIn 3 Se 5 have presented almost linear dependences following the Ohm's low. This behavior of junction makes the electrodeposited MoO 3 layers appropriate low cost candidate for back contact in chalcopyrite solar cells.