Technology Description
This is a process for the solution-deposition of inorganic materials/compounds onto a target substrate. The solution is deposited onto the substrate using a process selected from a finite array of application options including but not limited to inkjet printing, spin coating, spray coating, and dip coating. This process provides at least a first reactant and a second reactant in solution and applies the solution to a substrate. The as-deposited materials are thermally annealed under vacuum or inert atmosphere to form desired compounds. Once deposited onto the substrate, the solution is evaporated leaving a thin inorganic layer. This process may be repeated using a multitude of inorganic compounds including but not limited to copper, indium, gallium and selenite (CIGS) to yield the desired end product. This technology concerns a method for making a solar cell from I-III-VI semiconductors.
Features & Benefits
Applications
Background of Invention
With much of our lives now reliant on complex electronic technologies, the demand semiconductors and other inorganic devices that make these devices function is consistently growing. With traditional methods of production such as Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) yielding limited, non-uniform results in commercial inorganic material manufacturing, the market demanded an alternative manufacturing process with low capital outflow and large area depositions. In response to this need, researchers of Oregon State University have developed a new solution-based process for producing inorganic materials, which can be used in a wide range of applications including the manufacturing of semiconductors and solar cells. This patented process has the potential to fundamentally alter the semiconductor industry and allow manufactures to produce the necessary inorganic materials for their products on a large, low-cost, efficient scale.
Status
This technology has been successfully tested in the laboratory and is ready for licensing.