Synthesis and characterization of ecofriendly and large-area honeycomb-like Cu₂ZnSnS₄ thin films for solar cell applications using chemical bath deposition method

In view of care and concern for society to provide sustainable energy by renewable solar photovoltaic technology using various absorbers is being highly reliable. Among all absorbers, recently the Cu₂ZnSnS₄ (CZTS) thin films have prompted the significant attention of researchers as low-cost and high-quality photovoltaic absorber semiconducting material owing to its high absorption coefficient, optimum band gap, nontoxic nature and naturally abundant elements with high expectations of greener synthesis and renewable solar to electrical conversion. Considering this eco-friendly approach we focus on synthesis, characterization and photo electrochemical application of Cu₂ZnSnS₄(CZTS) thin films by cost effective chemical bath deposition technique. The films were characterized using various techniques like XRD, scanning electron microscopy, optical absorbance, electrical conductivity, photoluminescence, and PEC studies. The investigation revealed a poly-crystalline, stable kasterite structure of CZTS thin films in a good stoichiometric and with a excellent uniform, large area typical honeycomb-like morphology.