Chemical solution deposition of oxides for energy applications

Abstract

Immense research efforts are devoted to renewable energy generation and storage devices. Key is the search for device structures and materials that generate improved performance and efficiency. At least as important is that materials consist of abundantly available elements and their synthesis and device assembly should be ecologically and economically justifiable. We investigate, preferrably aqueous, solution based routes for the synthesis and deposition of materials for energy generation and storage. Although these routes have important advantages over e.g. vacuum based routes, some crucial challenges jeopardize their success in energy applications. We present how we cope with these challenges in two of our recent research topics: Challenges in solution deposition of electrode and solid electrolyte materials for thin film Lithium Ion Batteries are being discussed, whereby we demonstrate how spraycoating brings us a step closer to solution-based coating of 3D structured substrates. Secondly, through in depth characterisation we correlate synthesis conditions to the functional properties of Indium-free TCO’s (transparent conductive oxides), and come to functional printed TCO layers competitive with sputtered coatings.