Abundant non-toxic materials for thin film solar cells: Alternative to conventional materials

Presented are the results of a comparative analysis to identify abundant, non-toxic binary materials with potential applicability for photovoltaics. Materials other than the conventional Si, CdTe, and Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) are examined. The screening is based on the materials’ bulk properties and a set of environmental, physical, and chemical criteria. The screening process is detailed and the properties and applicability of the screened materials are discussed.

► Non-conventional binary materials for photovoltaics. ► Photovoltaics materials abundance and toxicity. ► Practical and theoretical considerations for photovoltaic.