SiO 2 –TiO 2 scattering layers prepared by sol–gel processing for light management in thin film solar cells

Thin films containing SiO 2 nanoparticles and a TiO 2 binder were prepared by sol–gel processing; their transparency and haze were characterized. By applying additional SiO 2 films the surface of these scattering layers was smoothened. This procedure improved the microstructure of aluminum-doped zinc oxide and a-Si:H/µc-Si:H subsequently deposited by vapor phase deposition. The electrical properties and performance of the resulting thin film solar cells were characterized. Based on these results the proof of concept is provided for the application of sol–gel derived scattering layers in thin film photovoltaics.