Synthesis of CZTSSe Thin Films from Nanocrystal Inks

This chapter focuses on current progress and challenges in CZTS nanocrystal synthesis as well as the selenization of the nanocrystal films to fabricate Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1–x)4 (CZTSSe) solar cells. It provides an overview of the solution-based nanocrystal synthesis technique, with reference to applications and challenges associated with CZTS growth. This is followed by a discussion on the characterization techniques specific to CZTS nanocrystals. The chapter also provides an overview of the selenization process given with analysis of the key factors found to impact sintered film formation. While the selenization of sulfide nanocrystals has been a particularly successful approach to achieve grain growth and sintering for absorber formation, this process is not without its own challenges. The chapter discusses the major challenges that deserve careful attention in order to control the optoelectronic properties of the selenized absorber layer.