Solution Processed Lead Telluride Nanowires as a Passivating Layer to CdTe Photovoltaics

Here, we report the application of lead telluride (PbTe) nanowires (NWs) as a passivating layer to cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells enhancing the opto-electronic properties and device performance. The PbTe NWs were synthesized using hot injection colloidal method and applied to CdTe films using a spin-coating process. Steady state photoluminescence (PL) and time resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) measurements from the back side of the device show evidence of passivation in the form of reduced back surface recombination. Devices fabricated using these NWs demonstrate improved open-circuit voltage (V
OC
) and fill factor (FF) in agreement with the desired effects of surface passivation.