Electrochemical Synthesis of Silicon and Gallium Arsenide Photovoltaic Thin Films: A Critical Review and a Novel Approach

This paper presents, firstly, an overview of results arisen worldwide on semiconductive thin films used in photovoltaic (PV) cells as a function of time and efficiency. Secondly, the paper demonstrates the electrodeposition of silicon and gallium arsenide films suggested for PV cells, with a focus on electrodeposition from ionic liquids. Ionic liquids, due to their wide electrochemical window, are used for the electrodeposition of elements and compounds impossible to be electrodeposited from aqueous solutions. Finally, a new approach, referred to a recent patent by the author, is illustrated to facilitate the practical electrodeposition of semiconductors from ionic liquids that can be suggested for industrial applications.