Integration of n-doped ZnO nanorod structures as novel light-trapping concept in amorphous thin film silicon solar cells

Commonly, wet etched transparent conductive oxide (TCO) is used as a textured window electrode of hydrogenated amorphous thin film silicon solar cells. This study demonstrates a novel light trapping solutions using electrochemically deposited zinc oxide nanorod arrays to replace standard light management concepts. Here we systematically investigate the influence of rod size and array geometries on the solar cell efficiency and correlate our experimental results to multidimensional solar cell simulations. Especially, the requirement is demonstrated to match the solar cell design to the nanorod geometry which strongly influences the electrical cell characteristic. The results clearly outline the potential of TCO nanorod technology regarding the light trapping effect in silicon based thin film solar cells. ► Novel light trapping solutions using zinc oxide nanorod arrays as electrode. ► Impact of rod size and array geometries on the solar cell performance. ► Correlation of experimental results to multidimensional solar cell simulations. ► Combination of optimum efficiency and a reduced absorber layer can be predicted.