Preparation and investigation of graphene-coated lead-free glass frit based on amino dispersant for improved adhesion and lower temperature point

Abstract Lead-free glass frit acts as an crucial part of the front contact electrodes of solar cells. In this study, we have developed a new type of glass frit through a hydrothermal reaction to coat graphene and solved the problem of graphene agglomeration by using amino dispersant. When the raw glass, graphene-coated glass, and new glass frit are tested under the same conditions for their resistance and characteristic temperature points, their resistance and temperature is significantly reduced. Through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) characterization, it is further found that there are a large number of conductive alloy spheres and graphene at the interface. This result is considered to be the reason that can improve the performance of solar cells. This work has important guiding significance for the development of new high-conductivity glass frit for commercial solar cells in the future. [Display omitted] •Adding KH-550 as a dispersant and using ethylene glycol as a reducing agent•Using KH-550 and ethylene glycol can make graphene better cover the glass frit•A large number of conductive alloy balls and graphene at the interface promote the flow of photoelectrons.•The proper proportion of additives makes the battery have good photovoltaic performance.