TY  - JOUR
AU  - Eberst, Alexander
AU  - Xu, Binbin
AU  - Bittkau, Karsten
AU  - Lambertz, Andreas
AU  - Rau, Uwe
AU  - Ding, Kaining
TI  - Performance improvements through gradient layers in transparent passivating contact solar cells
JO  - Cell reports / Physical science
VL  - 6
SN  - 2666-3864
CY  - Maryland Heights, MO
PB  - Cell Press
M1  - FZJ-2025-02809
SP  - 102658
PY  - 2025
AB  - Transparent passivating contact solar cells using hydrogenated n-type nanocrystalline silicon carbide (nc-SiC:H(n)) utilize a double-layer stack consisting of one passivation-optimized and one conduction-optimized nc-SiC:H(n) layer. This double-layer configuration limits the fill factor (FF) due to the passivating layer’s low electrical conductivity. This study enhances this structure by introducing a gradient layer that transitions from passivating-like to conducting-like properties. While replacing the passivating layer alone does not improve performance, when combining it with an ultrathin passivating seed layer, the gradient layer effectively balances voltage and FF trade-offs. This results in higher device voltage and FF. Microstructural analysis shows hydrogen content near the crystalline Si interface similar to the double-layer approach but with increased electrical conductivity earlier in the layer stack. These improvements boost both FF and open-circuit voltage by 0.6% absolute and over 4 mV, respectively.
LB  - PUB:(DE-HGF)16
UR  - <Go to ISI:>//WOS:001540265100001
DO  - DOI:10.1016/j.xcrp.2025.102658
UR  - https://juser.fz-juelich.de/record/1043283
ER  -