Homogeneous Precursor Formation Method and Device Thereof

Dissolving elemental metals, metal salts, organometallic complexes, metal chalcogenides, and metal oxides in solvent has been a long-standing obstacle in the production of thin film, nanoparticle, and inks containing these compounds for use in manufacturing.

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method based on a versatile solvent mixture that can dissolve all of these materials, allowing for the production of fabrication materials that are extremely advantageous in the manufacturing of semiconductor devices, especially photovoltaic cells. By creating these fabrication materials in thin film, nanoparticle, and ink forms, more efficient manufacturing techniques, like roll-to-roll manufacturing, can be utilized. Beyond their use in the manufacturing of semiconductors, the solvents can be used to infiltrate metal containing compounds into porous structures.

Advantages:

-Low capital cost in raw materials and equipment

-High throughput production

-Better compatibility

-Used with porous structures

Potential Applications:

-Materials manufacturers

-Semiconductor manufacturers

TRL: 2

Intellectual Property:

Keywords: thin film production, nanoparticle fabrication, metal ink solvent, semiconductor manufacturing, photovoltaic cell material, roll-to-roll manufacturing, porous structure infiltration, versatile solvent mixture, high throughput production, low capital cost