How is a solar cell fabricated on a Pai-coated steel substrate?

The solar cell fabrication on the PAI-coated R1–R4 steel substrates (stack C III) was identical to the fabrication of stack B III. For the Au-based substrate-configuration devices (stack B I, B II) a 120 nm patterned Au bottom electrode was deposited (1 Å s −1) onto the ITO glass substrate via thermal evaporation.

Can solar cells be fabricated on steel substrates?

One of the challenges to tackle when fabricating solar cells directly on steel substrates is the higher surface roughness as compared to glass or polymer film which can be fatal for thin-film solar cells. Using smooth steel substrates would add to the cost due to the extra surface polishing steps.

Which steel is used for perovskite solar cells?

We selected a Ni-plated high-gloss steel (R1), Ni-plated battery steel (R2), Cr-plated packaging steel (R3), and Zn-coated construction steel (R4). For future integration of perovskite solar cells in steel buildings, the devices will eventually be deposited directly on the polymer-coated steel itself.

Can 'rough' steel be used as a substrate for PV modules?

This study analysed the potential for a number of less refined “rough” steels as substrates for PV modules.

Can steel be used as a substrate for PV applications?

Studies have assessed the viability of utilising steel as an effective substrate material for PV applications. Ke et al. experimented with steel as a suitable substrate, utilising varying thicknesses for the IL applied to the stainless steel.

Does surface roughness affect photovoltaic performance?

Fabricating perovskite solar cells on rough substrates may reduce device performance and yield, due to irregularities such as spike-like protrusions, valleys, and peaks. To investigate the impact of surface roughness on the photovoltaic performance, we developed a substrate-configuration n–i–p solar cell for coated steel substrates (Figure 1 ).