Patent ID: 8525019
Filing Date: 2013-09-03
Classification: H01L,Y02E

Abstract:
1. A method for forming a chemically reduced conductive area in a transparent conductive layer of a thin film photovoltaic device, the method comprising: providing a superstrate having a first conductive layer thereon, wherein the first conductive layer comprises a transparent conductive oxide material; depositing a first semiconductor layer on the first conductive layer; depositing a second semiconductor layer on the first semiconductor layer; forming a first scribe by selectively removing the first conductive layer, the first semiconductor layer, and the second semiconductor layer; filling the first scribe with a dielectric material; thereafter, exposing the superstrate to a reducing atmosphere; in the reducing atmosphere, directing concentrated electromagnetic energy from an energy source toward the superstrate to form a second scribe having a chemically reduced conductive area defined in the first conductive layer, wherein the chemically reduced conductive area has greater electrical conductivity than the transparent conductive oxide material; and thereafter, forming a second conductive layer on the second semiconductor layer and the chemically reduced conductive area.