ALBA Synchrotron
Michael Stueckelberger (DESY)
Abstract
Today, we are utilizing scanning X-ray microscopy to answer questions about photovoltaic materials such as: How do interfaces look like in solar cell stacks? How can perovskite semiconductors be manufactured without sacrificing the efficiency due to lateral inhomogeneity? Which defects limit the device performance, and how can they be engineered to be less detrimental? How can solar cells be cost-effectively fabricated using abundant and non-toxic materials?
Based on experiments at DESY, APS, ESRF, and NSLS II, we will showcase examples of multimodal scanning X-ray microscopy measurements during in-situ growth and operation of solar cells, involving X-ray beam induced current (XBIC) and voltage (XBIV), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ptychography, and X-ray excited optical luminescence (XEOL). We have found correlations between the optical / electrical performance, composition, and strain, and will highlight the relevance of X-ray microscopy for the solar cell development. Beyond photovoltaics, we will showcase applications of multi-modal X-ray microscopy to the wider area of energy research.
Tomorrow, the questions will be different, and we will be able to use X-ray nanoscopes at diffraction-limited storage rings to answer them. Where will be the frontiers of scanning X-ray microscopy for in-situ and operando energy research? Which challenges arise with the new opportunities, and how can we tackle them? We will present ideas of ‘dream experiments’ and discuss the challenges related to multimodal scanning X-ray microscopy.
About ALBA II Colloquium
The series ALBA II Colloquium, addressed to the scientific user's community of synchrotron radiation, is aimed at inspiring and promoting fruitful ideas and information exchange about the future development of ALBA II facility.