Highly conductive and transparent metal microfiber networks as front electrodes of flexible thin-film photovoltaics

Dae Hyung Cho, Woo Jung Lee, Tae Ha Hwang, Jungwoo Huh, Sam S. Yoon, Yong Duck Chung

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Simultaneously enhancing the optical transmittance and electrical conductivity of transparent conductors (TCs) applicable in various optoelectronic devices is a long-standing challenge. Herein, we present an innovative approach for fabricating electroplated Ni and Cu microfiber networks (NiMF and CuMF) as highly conductive TCs to realize high efficiency and desired aesthetics in thin-film solar cells and modules. The metal microfibers (MFs) are fabricated using electrospun polyacrylonitrile nanofibers as the template. The large cross-sectional aspect ratio of the metal MF networks remarkably and concurrently improves their electrical conductivity and optical transmittance. Between the NiMF and CuMF TCs, the CuMF sample exhibits a superior figure of merit owing to its exceptionally low electrical resistivity. The metal MF TC is a promising alternative to conventional patterned grids used in flexible Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin-film solar cells, because it effectively reduces the series resistance, which is advantageous for large-area cells. The CuMF can be successfully employed as a ribbon to maintain the solar cell performance in centimeter-scale cells connected in series. The outstanding performance of the metal MF TCs indicates their potential to eliminate complicated monolithic integration processes or front grids and ribbons in flexible thin-film solar cells and modules.

Original languageEnglish
Article number234443
JournalJournal of Power Sources
Volume603
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024 May 30

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2024 Elsevier B.V.

Keywords

  • Cu fibers
  • Gridless
  • Ni fibers
  • Thin-film solar cells
  • Transparent electrodes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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