Dunnefilmcellen

Dunnefilmcellen are photovoltaic devices manufactured by depositing one or more thin layers of semiconductor material onto a substrate, producing lightweight, flexible, and sometimes semi-transparent solar cells. Their reduced material use compared with crystalline silicon can lower production costs and allow new form factors.

Common thin-film materials include amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS). More recently, perovskite-based thin films have emerged, often studied on glass or flexible foils. These materials absorb light efficiently in very thin layers.

Thin-film modules are typically produced via vacuum deposition, sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, or solution processing, often on glass or flexible substrates. Roll-to-roll fabrication and low-temperature processing enable large-area modules and potential flexible or integrated applications.

Thin-film cells generally require less active material and can be lighter and more flexible than crystalline silicon. They often perform better in diffuse light and high-temperature conditions but historically have lower peak efficiencies. Recent advances, especially in CIGS and perovskite, have narrowed the gap.

Advantages include lower material use, potential for lower production costs, and versatility in form factor. Challenges include achieving high long-term stability, ensuring safe handling of toxic elements (e.g., cadmium), and securing supply chains for certain elements.

Applications range from building-integrated photovoltaics and rooftops to large-area solar farms and portable devices. Ongoing research aims to improve stability, efficiency, and manufacturing scalability, with perovskite–silicon tandems representing a notable area of development.