Effect of lead-free glass on the current transmission method at the Ag/Si interface in crystalline silicon solar cells

Abstract

Environmental protection mandates have spurred the widespread adoption of lead-free glass in electronic material adhesion. Glass powder, crucial for solar silver paste, notably affects the ohmic contact at the Ag–Si interface of crystalline silicon solar cells. This study examines how TeO₂ content influences the high-temperature flowability and wettability of lead-free Bi₂O₃–TeO₂-based glass powder, alongside the interplay between the glass's thermal properties and interface contact. Additionally, it investigates the Bi₂O₃–TeO₂ ratio's impact on current transmission through the interfacial glass layer. Experimental results show that the synthesized glass powder exhibits superior high-temperature flowability and wettability, with a low contact resistance of 1.5 mΩ cm² in silver paste applications. This study also proposes an optimal approach for enhancing current transmission through the interfacial glass layer. Consequently, this glass powder is highly valuable for c-Si solar cell silver paste applications, offering novel insights into improving current transmission efficiency.