Cu2ZnSnS4 films deposited by a soft-chemistry method

Cu2ZnSnS4 films were deposited on glass substrates by the use of a printing technique. A series of different precursor materials was synthesized by a soft-chemistry route. Suspensions were prepared with or without the addition of a polymeric binder. Precursor films were printed and subjected to different thermal treatments in sulfur containing atmosphere. Parameters such as precursor synthesis conditions, paste composition, binder addition and thermal treatment were studied. X-ray diffraction patterns can be attributed to Cu2ZnSnS4 phase. In some cases secondary phases were detected. The addition of a polymeric binder improved film uniformity but impeded crystalline growth. Optical and materials aspects were discussed in terms of film applicability in photovoltaic devices. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.