Investigation of ZnS Nanoparticles as a Cadmium-Free Buffer Layer for CZTSe Solar Cells

Mustapha Hassan Junaidu, Musa Bello, Muhammad Yusuf Onimisi, Bala Dennis, Haruna Ali, Rabiu Abubakar Tafida

Abstract


This research investigates the implementation of Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) buffer layers in Copper Zinc Tin Selenide (CZTSe) thin-film solar cells as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional Cadmium Sulfide (CdS) buffer layers. CZTSe, a promising material for thin-film photovoltaic applications, possesses favorable optoelectronic properties, while CdS presents environmental concerns due to its toxicity. This study explores the feasibility of ZnS as a non-toxic and potentially superior substitute, leveraging its compatibility with CZTSe and advantageous band alignment. The investigation involves systematic variation of ZnS thin film thicknesses and structural characteristics to optimize its properties. Structural, morphological, and optical analyses using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectroscopy reveal promising results. XRD analysis confirms the formation of ZnS thin films with wurtzite crystal structure, while SEM imaging depicts well-defined nanostructures. UV-Vis spectroscopy demonstrates tunable optical bandgaps with varying ZnS film thicknesses. Additionally, electrical characterization through current-voltage (IV) measurements reveals promising conductivity properties of ZnS films. The integration of ZnS buffer layers into CZTSe solar cell devices exhibits encouraging performance, albeit with lower efficiency compared to CdS-based counterparts. Despite challenges such as reduced short-circuit current, the results indicate the potential of ZnS as a buffer layer material, warranting further optimization and exploration. Overall, this study contributes to advancing the understanding of ZnS/CZTSe interfaces and their implications for thin-film photovoltaic device performance, paving the way for the development of more efficient and environmentally sustainable solar energy technologies.


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