SOLAR CELL PATTERNING AND METALLIZATION

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods for forming conductive structures on the surfaces of a solar cell. In one embodiment, conductive structures are formed on the front surface of a solar cell by depositing a sacrificial polymer layer, forming patterned lines in the sacrificial polymer via a fluid jet, depositing metal layers over the front surface of the solar cell, and performing lift off of the metal layers deposited over the sacrificial polymer by dissolving the sacrificial polymer with a water based solvent. In another embodiment, conductive structures are formed on the back surface of a solar cell by depositing a sacrificial polymer layer, forming patterned lines in the sacrificial polymer via a fluid jet, depositing a metal layer over the back surface of the solar cell, and performing lift off of the metal layer deposited over the sacrificial polymer by dissolving the sacrificial polymer with a water based solvent, and completing selective metallization of the remaining metal lines.