Fabrication and Characterization of Copper-Based Nanoparticles for Transparent Solar Cell Applications

This paper reports on the fabrication of copper-based nanoparticles using microemulsions, and their optical properties for use in transparent solar cell applications. Microemulsions, containing pure copper nanoparticles, were prepared using the reaction process of CuCl2 with KBH4. We have confirmed that various sized copper nanoparticles, with a radius of up to 10 nm, form within an aqueous concentration of CuCl2 ≤ 2.0 M. Using microstructural observation, we found that parts of pure copper nanoparticles, synthesized in microemulsions, oxidize into cuprous oxide and agglomerate with one another in a normal atmosphere. The copper-based particles were then transferred to substrates by using a spin-coating process. Variations in spin speed led to significant changes in the transmittance and reflectance of the spin-coated particles. Transparent and anti-reflective properties of the particles were obtained at an optimum condition of spin speed. This suggests that the fabrication of the copper-based nanoparticles can be effectively applied to the manufacturing of transparent solar cells.