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Applications of laser-induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS) in surface analysis
J M Vadillo1, S Palanco, M D Romero
1Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, E-29071, Málaga, Spain.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Laser-induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS) enables detailed surface analysis of solar cells. This technique offers high lateral resolution for mapping elemental distribution and identifying impurities.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Laser-induced breakdown spectrometry (LIBS) is a versatile technique for elemental analysis.
- Surface analysis is crucial for optimizing photovoltaic device performance.
- Understanding impurity distribution can impact solar cell efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of LIBS for surface analysis of solar cells.
- To determine the lateral and depth resolution capabilities of the LIBS system.
- To investigate the distribution of carbon impurities on solar cell surfaces.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a pulsed N(2) laser (337.1 nm, 3.65 J/cm(2)) to ablate solar cell surfaces.
- Collected and detected laser-induced plasmas using a charge-coupled device (CCD).
- Employed a synchronized XY motorized system for precise sample positioning.
Main Results:
- Achieved multielement analysis with a lateral resolution of up to 30 micrometers.
- Demonstrated the capability for three-dimensional analysis of surface composition.
- Successfully mapped the distribution of carbon impurities on solar cell surfaces.
Conclusions:
- LIBS is a powerful tool for high-resolution surface analysis of solar cells.
- The developed system provides valuable insights into material composition and impurity localization.
- LIBS facilitates the optimization of photovoltaic materials and devices through detailed surface characterization.