Enhancement of Cu2ZnSn(S, Se)4 device performance using an IPA/MOE hybrid solvent system in ambient air

Abstract

In this work, a mixed precursor solvent system comprising isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and 2-methoxy ethanol (MOE) is introduced for the fabrication of Cu₂ZnSn(S, Se)₄ (CZTSSe) thin films under ambient conditions. The effects of different IPA/(MOE + IPA) ratios on the characteristics of CZTSSe films and the corresponding devices were investigated. Our research results indicate that the addition of IPA enhances the wettability of Cu–Zn–Sn–S precursor solution on the substrate, reduces Sn loss in the film during high-temperature annealing, and diminishes band tail states. Additionally, adding IPA leads to effective enlargement of grain size, improved crystallinity, and enhanced light absorption. However, excessive content of IPA negatively impacts CZTSSe film properties and the device's performance. Notably, when substituting 20% of MOE with IPA, the short-circuit current density (J_SC) increased from 30.84 mA cm⁻² to 35.55 mA cm⁻² in the resulting CZTSSe device, and the efficiency improved from 9.19% to 10.63%. This work provides a new method of a solvent system for preparing efficient kesterite-based solar cells.