Abstract

CuInSe₂ thin films were electrodeposited potentiostatically from acidic aqueous solutions containing CuCl, InCl₃ and SeO₂. SCN⁻ ions were used as complexing agents for Cu⁺ ions in order to shift their reduction potentials in the negative direction. Different deposition solutions and post-deposition treatments were compared. The films were characterized by means of energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, time-of-flight elastic recoil detection analysis, electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance, cyclic photovoltammetry and photoelectrochemical measurements. The as-deposited films were found to be p-type. The photoactivity was lost after heat treatment, but etching in 0.5 M KCN regenerated it rapidly.