Photovoltaic devices are important for the renewable clean energy system. Today, silicon-based solar modules keep dominating the market, but various emerging techniques based on thin-film inorganic semiconductors are rapidly developing. Among thin-film technologies, chalcopyrite Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) shows excellent light conversion efficiency. The primary goal of my research is to develop modeling tools for design and optimization of CIGS fabrication and device operation processes. To achieve this goal, the first step is to understand the fundamental chemical reactions or physical phenomenons happening during manufacturing processes. Next, I would apply first principle calculations and use device simulation software to understand thermodynamic or kinetic aspects of the materials. Finally, a predictive model would then be created to help interpret experimental data and provide new perspectives for engineering nanoscale device structure with desirable functionality.
Advisor: Scott Dunham – Electrical & Computer Engineering