CuInSe sub(2) for photovoltaics: a critical assessment

CuInSe sub(2) is one of the most promising absorbing-generating semiconductor materials for photovoltaic solar energy conversion. An in-depth study of the current status of CuInSe sub(2) and its impact in the field of solar cell technology is presented. First the structural, optical and electrical properties are given. Then, the principles of all deposition techniques, the conditions of deposition, details on the nature of the deposits and their usefulness for device fabrication, with an appraisal of each deposition technique, are given. Next, the steps and materials employed in the development of CuInSe sub(2)-based solar cells and modules are given. Lastly, a comparison of the techniques is made to identify a commercially viable deposition technique for successful development of large-area thin-film solar cells.