Fabrication of CZTS Thin Films based Solar Cells using Vacuum Deposition Techniques: A Status Review

In recent times, Cu
₂
ZnSnS
₄
(CZTS) quaternary compound has attracted significant attention for application in solar cells, due to its suitable direct band gap, high abundance, low cost and low toxicity. Various vacuum and non- vacuum based methods have been adopted for the fabrication of CZTS thin films. Vacuum based methods such as pulse laser deposition and evaporation have the advantage of controlled chemical composition and higher reproducibility. This work reviews the different vacuum based methods for preparation of CZTS thin films present in the literature. The effect of fabrication conditions and preparation methods on film properties has been analyzed. Present status and progress of CZTS thin film solar cells while identifying future path for more efficient device structure has been presented.