Comparative Assessment of Optical and Solid-State Characteristics in Antimony-Doped Chalcogenide Thin Films of ZnSe and PbSe to Boost Photovoltaic Performance in Solar Cells

Abstract

Solar cell efficiency is crucial for maximizing the potential of solar energy as a sustainable power source. This research investigates the optical and solid-state properties of antimony-doped ZnSe and PbSe thin films using the spray pyrolysis technique. The process involves meticulous cleaning of soda-lime glass substrates, deposition of precursors (antimony chloride (SbCl₃), lead chloride (PbCl₂), hydrated zinc acetate (Zn (CH₃COO) •3H₂O), and sodium selenosulfide (NaSeSO₃) via nebulizer-driven atomization onto heated substrates at a temperature of 80°C, and subsequent annealing at 300°C in a controlled nitrogen atmosphere for 60 minutes, facilitated by a tube furnace. Optical property evaluation through UV-Vis spectrophotometry reveals intriguing trends, such as a decrease in absorbance and an ascending transmittance with elongated wavelengths. Annealed films exhibit peak optical conductivity values around the visible spectrum, and augmented refractive indices correlate with increased wavelengths, further enhanced through annealing. Antimony doping influences band gap energy, making these materials promising for solar cell fabrication. This study underscores the potential of antimony-doped ZnSe and PbSe thin films to enhance solar cell efficiency. The films offer features like enhanced light trapping, lowered band gap energy, and improved charge transport characteristics, making them suitable for various solar cell applications, including antireflection coatings and light-trapping layers. Continued exploration and refinement of these materials are anticipated to lead to novel advancements in solar cell design and manufacturing, contributing to more efficient and impactful energy conversion techniques.