A stochastic model of solid state thin film deposition: application to chalcopyrite growth

Developing high fidelity quantitative models of solid state reaction systems can be challenging, especially in deposition systems where, in addition to the multiple competing processes occurring simultaneously, the solid interacts with its atmosphere. In this work, we develop a model for the growth...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inarXiv.org
Main Authors Lovelett, Robert J, Pang, Xueqi, Roberts, Tyler M, Shafarman, William N, Birkmire, Robert W, Ogunnaike, Babatunde A
Format Paper
LanguageEnglish
Published Ithaca Cornell University Library, arXiv.org 04.03.2016
Subjects
Atmospheric models
Chalcopyrite
Deposition
Energy storage
Film growth
Solid state
System effectiveness
Thickness
Thin films
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:Developing high fidelity quantitative models of solid state reaction systems can be challenging, especially in deposition systems where, in addition to the multiple competing processes occurring simultaneously, the solid interacts with its atmosphere. In this work, we develop a model for the growth of a thin solid film where species from the atmosphere adsorb, diffuse, and react with the film. The model is mesoscale and describes an entire film with thickness on the order of microns. Because it is stochastic, the model allows us to examine inhomogeneities and agglomerations that would be impossible to characterize with deterministic methods. We demonstrate the modeling approach with the example of chalcopyrite Cu(InGa)(SeS)\(_2\) thin film growth via precursor reaction, which is a common industrial method for fabricating thin film photovoltaic modules. The model is used to understand how and why through-film variation in the composition of Cu(InGa)(SeS)\(_2\) thin films arises and persists. We believe that the model will be valuable as an effective quantitative description of many other materials systems used in semiconductors, energy storage, and other fast-growing industries.
ISSN:2331-8422