The Application of molybdenum-niobium alloy targets in thin-film solar cells
Molybdenum-niobium alloy targets are high-performance sputtering materials that have significant applications in thin-film solar cells, mainly used as back electrode or buffer layer materials. Its outstanding performance significantly enhances the photoelectric conversion efficiency and long-term stability of the battery. The films formed by sputtering of molybdenum-niobium alloy targets have high electrical conductivity and low resistivity, with a resistivity lower than that of pure molybdenum films. The addition of niobium refines the grain structure, reduces grain boundary scattering, thereby lowering resistance and enhancing charge collection efficiency, which is conducive to increasing the fill factor and output power of solar cells. In addition, molybdenum-niobium alloy targets also possess excellent high-temperature resistance and thermal stability. In the process of preparing thin-film solar cells, the CIGS absorption layer usually needs to be deposited at high temperatures (500-600℃). The coefficient of thermal expansion of molybdenum-niobium alloy is more compatible with that of CIGS material, reducing interfacial stress at high temperatures, avoiding cracking or peeling of the electrode layer, and enhancing the reliability of the device.
The performance advantages of molybdenum-niobium alloy targets
Molybdenum-niobium alloy target materials also have good adhesion and corrosion resistance. The addition of niobium enhances the adhesion between the film and glass or flexible substrates (such as polyimide), and simultaneously improves the resistance to sulfidation and oxidation. Especially in sulfide batteries, it can extend the electrode life. In addition, the molybdenum-niobium alloy has a blocking effect on the diffusion of sodium ions, preventing the sodium element in the substrate from negatively affecting the battery performance. From a process perspective, molybdenum-niobium alloy targets can be uniformly film-formed through magnetron sputtering technology, which is compatible with existing production lines. Compared with pure molybdenum targets, its higher sputtering rate and lower usage cost (reducing the amount of precious metals used) further lower the production cost.
The future application prospects of molybdenum-niobium alloy targets
In conclusion, molybdenum-niobium alloy targets, with their comprehensive performance, have become ideal electrode materials for high-efficiency thin-film solar cells. In the future, with the development of flexible solar cells, their application potential will be further unleashed, promoting the commercialization process of photovoltaic technology.
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