Comparison between research-grade and commercially available SnO2 for thin-film CdTe solar cells

A comparison between research-grade, tin-oxide (SnO
2
) thin films and those available from commercial sources is performed. The research-grade SnO
2
film is fabricated at NREL by low-pressure metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. The commercial SnO
2
films are Pilkington Tec 8 and Tec 15 fabricated by atmospheric-pressure chemical vapor deposition. Optical, structural, and compositional analyses are performed. From the optical analysis, an estimation of the current losses due to the SnO
2
layer and glass is provided. Our analysis indicates that the optical properties of commercial SnO
2
could be improved for PV usage.