Fabrication of a Cu2MnSn(S,Se)4 thin film based on a low-cost degradable solution process

Abstract

Achieving micro-sized and closely packed grains is an essential requirement for high-performance chalcogenide thin film solar cells. Here, I₂–II–IV–VI₄ (Cu₂MnSn(S,Se)₄) (CMTSSe) thin films were successfully deposited by carrying out a simple, degradable solution-based process. The structure, composition, and morphology were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the Hall effect was also measured. These characterizations indicated that CMTSSe thin films may find applications in photovoltaic absorbing materials. In addition, different substrates were found to affect the morphology and compactness of the grains of the thin film.