Ultra-low concentration Na2CO3/NaHCO3 solution for texturization of crystalline silicon solar cells

ABSTRACT In this work, a novel diluted carbonate/bicarbonate solution was applied for texturization of monocrystalline silicon for solar cells. The content of reactants in the solution was decreased 20 times with respect to the previously optimum found by our group and 12 times with respect to the lowest values reported in the literature as optimum. The use of this low‐cost and nonhazardous solution, free of additives as isopropyl alcohol, can reduce costs in solar cell processing. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. This work presents a novel ultra‐low concentration of carbonate/bicarbonate solution (12 times less concentrated than the lowest values reported in the literature as optimum) suitable for texturing monocrystalline silicon for solar cells. The use of this solution enhances the solar cell parameters with respect to the use of high concentration solutions. Additives as isopropyl alcohol are not needed. This ultra‐low concentration can reduce costs and environmental impact in Si‐based solar cell production.