Fabrication of contact holes by rear side laser ablation of polyimide foils for CIGS solar modules

► Functional thin film stacks were exposed by laser ablation of the polyimide substrate. ► The morphology and the chemical composition of the ablated areas are measured. ► Electrical contacts were formed by filling the exposed thin film with a conductive adhesive. ► The contact resistance is discussed in relation to exposed area modifications. ► Shingled CIGS solar modules were fabricated by joining of laser exposed cells.