Iron Pyrite Thin Films From Molecular Inks

Brief Description

A method for synthesizing iron pyrite (FeS2) semiconductor films on solid substrates to serve as the active layer of a solar energy conversion device (e.g. solar cell).

Full Description

University researchers have developed a new process for producing iron pyrite thin films from “molecular inks”; i.e., simple solutions that can be spin coated, printed, sprayed, roll coated, or otherwise deposited onto a substrate, potentially enabling cheap deposition of device-quality pyrite films over large areas. The composition of the molecular ink and the annealing step(s) used to convert the molecular species to pyrite are tuned to produce films of desired morphology (film thickness, grain size, orientation, and interconnectedness), composition (stoichiometry, impurity levels, doping), and optoelectronic characteristics (carrier density, mobility, lifetime, Fermi level, etc.)

Suggested uses

Large-scale solar conversion; e.g. solar cells and solar fuels production.

Advantages

Simple and rapid deposition over large areas

Excellent control of film composition

Superior film uniformity

Simple doping and alloying

Low toxicity

Fairly low temperature

Patent Status

State Of Development

University researchers have successfully developed several solution chemistries to make polycrystalline pyrite thin films. Specifically two of these films follow the DMSO/ethanolamine and Pyridine routes.