First Solar, Inc.
ABSORBER LAYERS WITH MERCURY FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FORMING THE SAME

Abstract:

According to the embodiments provided herein, a photovoltaic device can have an energy side configured to be exposed to a light source. The photovoltaic device can include an absorber layer. The absorber layer can include a first surface facing the energy side and a thickness defined between the first surface and a second surface. The absorber layer can include mercury having a mole fraction y, cadmium having a mole fraction (1-y), and tellurium. The mole fraction y of the mercury can vary through the thickness of the absorber layer with distance from the first surface of the absorber layer.