Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials

Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials
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Research and Development
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Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials

The Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials at TalTech develops inorganic semiconductors and photovoltaic technologies that convert light into electricity. Research focuses on efficient, stable and resource-efficient solar cells, with particular emphasis on environmentally responsible material choices and earth-abundant elements. Devices are developed for terrestrial and space applications, with performance investigated under both sunlight and artificial indoor lighting. Lightweight and flexible designs also support building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and product-integrated photovoltaics (PIPV).

The laboratory brings together materials science, semiconductor physics and device engineering to turn promising materials into working solar cells. Research connects materials synthesis and advanced characterization with device fabrication and performance assessment. Long-standing expertise in multicomponent absorbers enables precise control of chemical composition and defect structure, alongside the development of scalable fabrication processes, including processing under ambient air conditions.

Collaboration with research institutions and industry turns advances in materials research into practical technological solutions. Students at all study levels gain hands-on research experience, while external partners benefit from expertise in materials and device characterization and analysis.

Contact: Marit Kauk-Kuusik

Staff

Research and Development

The main research areas are:

Compound semiconductors for photovoltaic energy conversion. Research explores light-absorbing semiconductors, including Cu₂ZnSnS₄, FeS₂, and antimony chalcogenides and halides. Their optical and electrical properties are tailored through composition control, doping, synthesis conditions and post-growth or post-deposition treatments to meet the demands of specific applications.
Monograin layer and thin-film solar cells. Device development combines monograin layer technology, based on small semiconductor crystals, with thin-film technologies in which functional layers are deposited directly onto substrates. These approaches enable lightweight, flexible devices suitable for integration into buildings and products. Fabrication methods include magnetron sputtering, thermal evaporation, chemical vapour deposition (CVD), spin coating and chemical bath deposition (CBD).
Physics of optoelectronic materials and devices. Fundamental studies reveal how crystal structure, defects, electronic transitions and phase transitions govern optical and electrical behaviour. Investigations of charge-carrier generation, transport and recombination connect material properties with device performance. This expertise supports research into solar cells, light-emitting diodes, lasers and sensors, helping identify performance limitations and strategies for reducing energy losses.
Interfaces and functional coatings. Metal, metal oxide and chalcogenide thin-film coatings are developed at the nano- and microscale. Interface engineering, together with the design of contacts, interlayers and protective coatings, improves charge-carrier collection and addresses the efficiency, stability and durability of devices.

TK210U7/TF24020 Center of Excellence in Sustainable Green Hydrogen and Energy Technologies 01.01.2024-31.12.2030
VHE24048 Versatility of sustainable and low-cost chalcogenide thin-films solar cells 01.12.2024-30.11.2027
TARISTU24-TK26 Centre of Nanomaterials Technologies and Research 01.01.2025–31.12.2029
TARISTU24-TK3 European Space Agency 01.01.2025–31.12.2029
TARISTU24-TK27 Estonian Beamline at MAX IV Synchrotron Radiation Source 01.07.2025–31.12.2029
TEM-TA96 CO₂-derived carbon materials for energy storage and production 01.03.2025–31.12.2028
MOB3JD1509 Development of Large-Area Quasi-2D Perovskite Solar Modules for Tandem: A Dual-Purpose Approach to Efficiency, Stability, and Deployment in Harsh Environments 01.11.2026–31.07.2028
PRG1815 Next Generation Microcrystalline Pyrite Solar Cell for Terrestrial and Extraterrestrial Applications 01.01.2023–31.12.2027

2026

Timmo, K.; Pilvet, M.; Danilson, M.; Mikli, V.; Krustok, J.; Dolski, A.; Nasyori, A.; Bereznev, S.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M.; Kauk-Kuusik, M. (2026). Modification of the CZTS/CdS interface by introducing an intermediate CeO₂ layer. Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 307, art. 114658. DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2026.114658.
Krustok, Jüri; Josepson, Raavo; Nasyori, Achmad; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2026). Probing back contact interfaces and hole tunneling in Cu₂ZnSnS₄ solar cells using temperature-dependent J–V curves. Next Nanotechnology, 10, art. 100591. DOI: 10.1016/j.nxnano.2026.100591.
Abbasi, N.; Krustok, J.; Kaupmees, R.; Timmo, K.; Mikli, V.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M. (2026). Deep-defect suppression in Sb₂Se₃ via atmosphere-dependent selenization probed by photoluminescence spectroscopy. Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 216, art. 111081. DOI: 10.1016/j.mssp.2026.111081.
Abbasi, N.; Krustok, J.; Kaupmees, R.; Danilson, M.; Hobson, T.D.C.; Major, J.D.; Durose, K.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M. (2026). Study of defects in chlorine-doped Sb₂Se₃ single crystals by photoluminescence spectroscopy. Journal of Alloys and Compounds Communications, 8 (1), 100171. DOI: 10.1016/j.jacomc.2026.100171.
Nasyori, Achmad; Danilson, Mati; Mengü, Idil; Pilvet, Maris; Krustok, Jüri; Kaupmees, Reelika; Mikli, Valdek; Josepson, Raavo; Gong, Yuancai; Alexander, Akhil; Hadke, Shreyash S.; Catalin Galca, Aurelian; Vivo, Paola; Wong, Lydia Helena; Unold, Thomas; Grossberg‐Kuusk, Maarja; Kauk‐Kuusik, Marit (2026). Rapid Cooling After Device Annealing Suppresses Interface Losses in Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Solar Cells Enabling High Efficiency and Stability. Advanced Science, art. e77574. DOI: 10.1002/advs.77574.
Krustok, Jüri; Nasyori, Achmad; Kaupmees, Reelika; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2026). Uncovering novel photoluminescence characteristics of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ thin-film solar cells through pulsed laser excitation. Applied Physics Letters, 129 (6), art. 062104. DOI: 10.1063/5.0311985.
Payno, David; Lázaro-Castrillón, Luna; Rusu, Marin; Arranz, Antonio; Kaupmees, Reelika; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Andrade-Arvizu, Jacob; Ynsa, Maria Dolores; Gonzalo, José; Caballero, Raquel (2026). Controlled S/Se composition in Sb₂(S,Se)₃ for thin-film photovoltaics via sulfo-selenization of metallic Sb. Materials Today Sustainability, 36, art. 101448. DOI: 10.1016/j.mtsust.2026.101448.
Payno, David; Sánchez, Yudania; Rusu, Marin; Lázaro-Castrillón, Luna; Khelifi, Samira; Galiana, Beatriz; Bonal, Víctor; Mijin, Sanja Djurdjić; Arranz, Antonio; Danilson, Mati; Lazić, Snežana; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Unold, Thomas; Serna, Rosalia; Merino, José Manuel; Caballero, Raquel (2026). Optimization of Sb₂Se₃ thin-film solar cells: the role of absorber selenization and the CdS buffer layer. Journal of Physics Energy, 8 (1), art. 015020. DOI: 10.1088/2515-7655/ae3d63.
Gurieva, Galina; Avdeev, Maxim; Pilvet, Maris; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit; Schorr, Susan (2026). Cd incorporation as a way to avoid Cu/Zn disorder in kesterites: the Kesterite-Stannite structural transition in Cu₂(Cd,Zn)SnS₄. Journal of Physics Energy, 8 (2), art. 025001. DOI: 10.1088/2515-7655/ae52b3.
Hiis, Heili; Ratso, Sander; Danilson, Mati; Mikli, Valdek; Boukos, Nikos; Banis, Alexandros; Liivand, Kerli; Kaare, Kätlin (2026). Molten salt electrolysis of CO₂ with simulated flue gas additives for high-performance M-N-C oxygen reduction catalysts. Carbon, 258, 121781. DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2026.121781.
Jantson, Martin; Liivand, Kerli; Mikli, Valdek (2026). Early-stage extraction of lithium from LCO cathodes via sucrose-assisted reductive roasting. RSC Advances, 16 (1), 872−882. DOI: 10.1039/d5ra08726k.
Kasi, Vinoth Kumar; Shmagina, Elizaveta; Bereznev, Sergei; Nordseth, Ornulf; Mayandi, Jeyanthinath; Karazhanov, Smagul (2026). Polysilazane-Derived Layer for Enhancing Durability of Yttrium Oxyhydride Photochromic Coatings. ACS Omega, 11 (6), 10369−10375. DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c10912.
Tarasova, Elvira; Prelgauskaite, Vilte; Mere, Arvo; Katerski, Atanas; Heinmaa, Ivo; Mikli, Valdek; Krumme, Andres (2026). Choline hydroxide-based deep eutectic solvents as a medium for cellulose dissolution, regeneration, and modification. Carbohydrate Research, 570, art. 110096. DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2026.110096.

2025

Reedo, Katriin; Raadik, Taavi; Altosaar, Mare; Pilvet, Maris; Gutjuma, Annaly; Krustok, Juri; Paaver, Peeter (2025). Scalable Phosphorus Doping of p-Type FeS₂ Microcrystals for Photovoltaic Applications. ACS Omega, 10 (48), 58869−58876. DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c07455.
Krustok, Jüri; Kokla, Joel; Kaupmees, Reelika; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2025). In-depth photoluminescence analysis of Cu₂GeS₃ microcrystals under pulsed and continuous-wave excitation. Journal of Physics Energy, 7, 035003 . DOI: 10.1088/2515-7655/adc836.
Dolcet Sadurni, M.; Timmo, K.; Mikli, V.; Krustok, J.; Danilson, M.; Suchodolskis, A.; Radu, C.; Bocirnea, A.E.; Galca, A.C.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M.; Kauk-Kuusik, M. (2025). Effects of cationic substitution on the properties of Sb1-xBixSeI (x = 0–1) compounds. Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 1037, #182292. DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2025.182292.
Nasyori, Achmad; Pilvet, Maris; Saar, Annabel; Krustok, Jüri; Danilson, Mati; Kaupmees, Reelika; Mikli, Valdek; Gong, Yuancai; Josepson, Raavo; Saucedo, Edgardo; Grossberg, Maarja; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2025). In Ambient Air Processed Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Absorber Layers from DMSO-Based Precursors: Enhanced Efficiency via Device Post-annealing. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 13, 30167−30179. DOI: 10.1039/d5ta04554a.
Shalvey, Thomas P.; Hobson, Theodore D. C.; Herklotz, Frank; Kaupmees, Reelika; Almushawwah, Aeshah A.; Lewis, Bradley G.; Don, Christopher H.; Kavanagh, Sean R.; Scanlon, David O.; Dhanak, Vin; Grossberg‐Kuusk, Maarja; Lavrov, Eduard; Durose, Ken; Major, Jonathan D. (2025). Cadmium and Zinc‐Doped p‐type Sb₂Se₃ Single Crystals and Solar Cells. Advanced Energy and Sustainability Research, 1−11. DOI: 10.1002/aesr.202500386.
Kassem, Mohammad; Benmore, Chris J.; Tverjanovich, Andrey; Bokova, Maria; Khomenko, Maxim; Usuki, Takeshi; Sokolov, Anton; Fontanari, Daniele; Bereznev, Sergei; Ohara, Koji; Fourmentin, Marc; Masselin, Pascal; Bychkov, Eugene (2025). Atomic Structure, Dynamics, Changes in Chemical Bonding and Semiconductor-Metal Transition in Sb₂Se₃: A Remarkable Material for Quantum Networks and Energy Applications. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 17, 11, 17075−17095. DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c00008.
Savale, N.; Tarasova, E.; Katerski, A.; Mere, A.; Heinmaa, I.; Osadchuk, I.; Kaljuvee, T.; Mikli, V.; Krumme, A. (2025). Structural and thermal properties of cellulose regenerated from superbase ionic liquid: effect of green co-solvents. Cellulose, 32, 2919−2936. DOI: 10.1007/s10570-025-06452-8.

2024

Krustok, Jüri; Kaupmees, Reelika; Kokla, Joel; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2024). Optical study of valence band splitting and resonant acceptor states in Cu₂GeS₃ microcrystals. Applied Physics Letters, 125 (24), #242111. DOI: 10.1063/5.0245139.
Uslu, M.E.; Muska, K.; Pilvet, M.;Bereznev, S.; Mikli, V.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M. (2024). Enhanced grain orientation in Sb₂Se₃ thin films deposited on Mo/BSG substrates via RF-sputtering and selenization. Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 184, #108835. DOI: 10.1016/j.mssp.2024.108835.
Uslu, Mehmet Ender; Danilson, Mati; Timmo, Kristi; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja (2024). The effect of tin doping on the band structure and optical properties of polycrystalline antimony selenide. Physica B Condensed Matter, 678, #415744. DOI: 10.1016/j.physb.2024.415744.
Mengü, İdil; Muska, Katri; Pilvet, Maris; Mikli, Valdek; Dudutienė, Evelina; Kondrotas, Rokas; Krustok, Jüri; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja (2024). Comprehensive study of photoluminescence and device properties in Cu₂Zn(Sn1− xGex)S₄ monograins and monograin layer solar cells. Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 277, #113124. DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2024.113124.
Dolcet Sadurni, Marc; Krustok, Jüri; Timmo, Kristi; Mikli, Valdek; Kondrotas, Rokas; Grossberg, Maarja; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2024). Radiative recombination model for BiSeI microcrystals: unveiling deep defects through photoluminescence. Journal of Physics Energy, 6 (4), #045004. DOI: 10.1088/2515-7655/ad8377.
Kristmann, Katriin; Raadik, Taavi; Altosaar, Mare; Danilson, Mati; Krustok, Jüri; Paaver, Peeter; Butenko, Yuriy (2024). Characterization of FeS₂ pyrite microcrystals synthesized in different flux media. Materials Advances, 5, 1565. DOI: 10.1039/d3ma00697b.
Dolcet Sadurni, Marc; Timmo, Kristi; Mikli, Valdek; Volobujeva, Olga; Mengü, Idil; Krustok, Jüri; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2024). Preparation and characterization of SbSeI thin films. Journal of Science Advanced Materials and Devices, 9 (1), #100664. DOI: 10.1016/j.jsamd.2023.100664.
Shmagina, E.; Volobujeva, O.; Nasibulin, A.G.; Bereznev, S. (2024). Fabrication of novel SiO_xNy/SWCNT laminate-type composite protective coating using low-temperature approach. Ceramics International, 50, 18, 34312−34320. DOI: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2024.06.250.
Shmagina, Elizaveta; Antonov, Maksim; Kasikov, Aarne; Volobujeva, Olga; Khabushev, Eldar M.; Kallio, Tanja; Bereznev, Sergei (2024). Structural, Mechanical, and Optical Properties of Laminate-Type Thin Film SWCNT/SiO_xNy Composites. Nanomaterials, 14, 22, #1806. DOI: 10.3390/nano14221806.
Vilão, R. C.; Marinopoulos, A. G.; Santos, D. G.; Alberto, H. V.; Gil, J. M.; Mengyan, P. W.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Lord, J. S.; Weidinger, A. (2024). Investigation of the solar cell materials Cu(In,Ga)Se₂ and Cu₂ZnSnS₄ with muon spin spectroscopy and density-functional calculations. Journal of Applied Physics, 136 (5), #055704. DOI: 10.1063/5.0205837.
Tarasova, Elvira; Savale, Nutan; Trifonova, Lada; Krasnou, Illia; Reile, Indrek; Kudrjasova, Marina; Mere, Arvo; Kaljuvee, Tiit; Mikli, Valdek; Sedrik, Rauno; Krumme, Andres (2024). Effect of green co-solvents on properties and synthesis of cellulose esters in superbase ionic liquid. Cellulose, 31, 4911−4927. DOI: 10.1007/s10570-024-05920-x.
Barghi, Bijan; Mõistlik, Tanel; Raag, Anastassia; Volokhova, Maria; Reile, Indrek; Seinberg, Liis; Mikli, Valdek; Niidu, Allan (2024). Deep Oxidative Desulfurization of Planar Compounds Over Functionalized Metal-Organic Framework UiO-66(Zr): An Optimization Study. ACS Omega, 9 (22), 23329−23338. DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09971.
Usuki, Takeshi; Benmore, Chris J.; Tverjanovich, Andrey; Bereznev, Sergei; Khomenko, Maxim; Sokolov, Anton; Fontanari, Daniele; Ohara, Koji; Bokova, Maria; Kassem, Mohammad; Bychkov, Eugene (2024). Atomic Structure and Dynamics of Unusual and Wide-Gap Phase-Change Chalcogenides: A GeTe₂ Case. physica status solidi (RRL) - Rapid Research Letters, #2300482. DOI: 10.1002/pssr.202300482.
Slavinskis, Andris; Palos, Mario F.; Dalbins, Janis; Janhunen, Pekka; Tajmar, Martin; Ivchenko, Nickolay; Rohtsalu, Agnes; Aas, Katarina; Micciani, Aldo; Orsini, Nicola; Moor, Karl Mattias; Kuzmin, Sergei; Plonis, Gustavs; Bleiders, Marcis; Donerblics, Marcis; Ofodile, Ikechukwu; Kütt, Johan; Eenmäe, Tõnis; Allik, Viljo; Viru, Jaan ... Tamm, Antti (2024). Electric Sail Test Cube–Lunar Nanospacecraft, ESTCube-LuNa: Solar Wind Propulsion Demonstration Mission Concept. Aerospace, 11 (3), #230. DOI: 10.3390/aerospace11030230.
Polivtseva, Svetlana; Volobujeva, Olga; Kuznietsov, Ivan; Kaupmees, Reelika; Danilson, Mati; Krustok, Jüri; Molaiyan, Palanivel; Hu, Tao; Lassi, Ulla; Klopov, Mihhail; van Gog, Heleen; van Huis, Marijn; Kaur, Harleen; Ivask, Angela; Rosenberg, Merilin; Gathergood, Nicholas; Ni, Chaoying; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja (2024). Efficient defect-driven cation exchange beyond the nanoscale semiconductors toward antibacterial functionalization. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 16 (45), 62871−62882. DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c11425.

2023

Timmo, Kristi; Pilvet, Maris; Muska, Katri; Altosaar, Mare; Mikli, Valdek; Kaupmees, Reelika; Josepson, Raavo; Krustok, Jüri; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2023). Influence of alkali iodide fluxes on Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monograin powder properties and performance of solar cells. Materials Advances. DOI: 10.1039/d3ma00444a.
Muska, Katri; Timmo, Kristi; Pilvet, Maris; Kaupmees, Reelika; Raadik, Taavi; Mikli, Valdek; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Krustok, Jüri; Josepson, Raavo; Lange, Sven; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2023). Impact of Li and K co-doping on the optoelectronic properties of CZTS monograin powder. Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 252, 112182. DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2023.112182.
Krustok, Jüri; Timmo, Kristi; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja (2023). Tunneling-enhanced interface recombination and current loss curves in kesterite solar cells. Applied Physics Letters, 123 (24), #240501. DOI: 10.1063/5.0175082.
Timmo, K.; Dolcet Sadurni, M.; Pilvet, M.; Muska, K.; Altosaar, M.; Mikli, V.; Atlan, F.; Guc, M.; Izquierdo-Roca, V.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M.; Kauk-Kuusik, M. (2023). Efficiency enhancement of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monograin layer solar cells via absorber post-growth treatments. Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 250, #112090. DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2022.112090.
Kauk-Kuusik, Marit; Timmo, Kristi; Pilvet, Maris; Muska, Katri; Danilson, Mati; Krustok, Jüri; Josepson, Raavo; Mikli, Valdek; Grossberg, Maarja (2023). Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monograin layer solar cells for flexible photovoltaic applications. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 11, 23640−23652. DOI: 10.1039/D3TA04541B.
Krustok, Jüri; Kaupmees, Reelika; Abbasi, Nafiseh; Muska, Katri; Mengü, Idil; Timmo, Kristi (2023). Bandgap Fluctuations, Hot Carriers, and Band-to-Acceptor Recombination in Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ Microcrystals. physica status solidi (RRL) - Rapid Research Letters, 17 (9), #2300077. DOI: 10.1002/pssr.202300077.
Mengü, İ.; Krustok, J.; Kaupmees, R.; Mikli, V.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M. (2023). Radiative recombination pathways in ordered and disordered CZTSe microcrystals. Materials Chemistry and Physics, 301, 127685. DOI: 10.1016/j.matchemphys.2023.127685.
Walke, Peter; Kaupmees, Reelika; Grossberg-Kuusk, Maarja; Krustok, Jüri (2023). Unusual Defect-Related Room-Temperature Emission from WS₂ Monolayers Synthesized through a Potassium-Based Precursor. ACS Omega, 8 (41), 37958−37970 . DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c03476.
Abdalla, A.; Danilson, M.; Mikli, V.; Bereznev, S. (2023). Energy levels determination of Zn(O,Se) thin films. Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 153, #107137. DOI: 10.1016/j.mssp.2022.107137.
Kondrotas, Rokas; Pakstas, Vidas; Franckevicius, Marius; Suchodolskis, Arturas; Tumenas, Saulius; Jasinskas, Vidmantas; Juskenas, Remigijus; Krotkus, Arunas; Muska, Katri; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit (2023). Band gap engineering by cationic substitution in Sn(Zr_1-xTi_x)Se₃ alloy for bottom sub-cell application in solar cells. Journal of Materials Chemistry A. DOI: 10.1039/d3ta05550g.
Ramish Esterlich, J.; Affannoukoue, K.; Kaupmees, R.; Miakota, D.; Engberg, S.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M.; Schou, J.; Canulescu, S. (2023). Advances in the one-step synthesis of 2D and 3D sulfide materials grown by pulsed laser deposition assisted by a sulfur thermal cracker. Applied Physics A, 129 (1), #59 . DOI: 10.1007/s00339-022-06319-w.
Kondrotas, R.; Juškėnas, R.; Krotkus, A.; Pakštas, V.; Suchodolskis, A.; Mekys, A.; Franckevičius, M.; Talaikis, M.; Muska, K.; Li, X.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Kravtsov, V. (2023). Synthesis and physical characteristics of narrow bandgap chalcogenide SnZrSe₃. Open Research Europe, 2, #138. DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.15168.2.
Ganchev, Maxim; Spasova, Stanka; Raadik, Taavi; Mere, Arvo; Altosaar, Mare; Mellikov, Enn (2023). Rapid Thermal Processing of Kesterite Thin Films. Coatings, 13 (8), #1449. DOI: 10.3390/coatings13081449.
Žalnėravičius, Rokas; Pakštas, Vidas; Grincienė, Giedrė; Klimas, Vaclovas; Paškevičius, Algimantas; Timmo, Kristi; Kauk-Kuusik, Marit; Franckevičius, Marius; Niaura, Gediminas; Talaikis, Martynas; Jagminas, Arūnas; Ramanavičius, Arūnas (2023). Antimicrobial particles based on Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monograins. Colloids and Surfaces B Biointerfaces, 225, #113275. DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113275.
Koltsov, M.; Gopi, S.V.; Raadik, T.; Krustok, J.; Josepson, R.; Gržibovskis, R.; Vembris, A.; Spalatu, N. (2023). Development of Bi₂S₃thin film solar cells by close-spaced sublimation and analysis of absorber bulk defects via in-depth photoluminescence analysis. Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 254, #112292. DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2023.112292.
Trifiletti, Vanira; Frioni, Luigi; Tseberlidis, Giorgio; Vitiello, Elisa; Danilson, Mati; Grossberg, Maarja; Acciarri, Maurizio; Binetti, Simona; Marchionna, Stefano (2023). Manganese-substituted kesterite thin-films for earth-abundant photovoltaic applications. Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 254, 112247. DOI: 10.1016/j.solmat.2023.112247.
Rojas Hernandez, Rocio E.; Rubio-Marcos, Fernando; Necib, Jallouli; Danilson, Mati; Fernandez, Jose Francisco; Hussainova, Irina (2023). Cost-effective screen printing approach for Ce/Nd-doped ZnAl₂O₄ films: tuning the crystallinity induced by the substrate. Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 25 (23), 15829−15838. DOI: 10.1039/D3CP02005C.
Tverjanovich, Andrey; Benmore, Chris J.; Khomenko, Maxim; Sokolov, Anton; Fontanari, Daniele; Bereznev, Sergei; Bokova, Maria; Kassem, Mohammad; Bychkov, Eugene (2023). Decoding the Atomic Structure of Ga₂Te₅ Pulsed Laser Deposition Films for Memory Applications Using Diffraction and First-Principles Simulations. Nanomaterials, 13 (14), #2137. DOI: 10.3390/nano13142137.
Konnikova, M.; Khomenko, M.; Tverjanovich, A.; Bereznev, S.; Mankova, A.; Parashchuk, O.; Vasilevsky, I.; Ozheredov, I.; Shkurinov, A.; Bychkov, E. (2023). GeTe₂ Phase Change Material for Terahertz Devices with Reconfigurable Functionalities Using Optical Activation. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 15 (7), 9638−9648. DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c21678.
Alao, Percy Festus; Press, Raimond; Ruponen, Jussi; Mikli, Valdek; Kers, Jaan (2023). Influence of Protic Ionic Liquid-Based Flame Retardant on the Flammability and Water Sorption of Alkalized Hemp Fiber-Reinforced PLA Composites. Polymers, 15 (18), #3661. DOI: 10.3390/polym15183661.

2022

Raadik, T.; Spalatu, N.; Krustok, J.; Jospeson, R.; Grossberg, M. (2022). Temperature dependent optical and electrical characterization of SnS/CdS solar cell. Thin Solid Films, 743, art. 139069. DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2021.139069.
Kristmann, K.; Raadik, T.; Altosaar, M.; Grossberg-Kuusk, M.; Krustok, J.; Pilvet, M.; Mikli, V.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Makaya, A. (2022). Pyrite as promising monograin layer solar cell absorber material for in-situ solar cell fabrication on the Moon. Acta Astronautica, 199, 420−424. DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2022.07.043.
Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Timmo, K.; Muska, K.; Pilvet, M.; Krustok, J.; Danilson, M.; Mikli, V.; Josepson, R.; Grossberg, M. (2022). Reduced recombination through the CZTS/CdS interface engineering in monograin layer solar cells. Journal of Physics Energy, 4 (024007). DOI: 10.1088/2515-7655/ac618d.
Shmagina, E.; Danilson, M.; Mikli, V.; Bereznev, S. (2022). Comparative study of perhydropolysilazane protective films. Surface Engineering, 38 (7-9), 769−777. DOI: 10.1080/02670844.2022.2155445.
Polivtseva, S.; Kois, J.; Kruzhilina, T.; Kaupmees, R.; Klopov, M.; Molaiyan, P.; van Gog, H.; van Huis, M. A.; Volobujeva, O. (2022). Solution-Mediated Inversion of SnSe to Sb₂Se₃ Thin-Films. Nanomaterials, 12 (17), #2898. DOI: 10.3390/nano12172898.
Uslu, M. E.; Kondrotas, R.; Nedzinskas, R.; Volobujeva, O.; Timmo, K.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Krustok, J.; Grossberg, M. (2022). Study of the optical properties of Sb₂(Se_1-xS_x)3 (x = 0–1) solid solutions. Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 144, #106571. DOI: 10.1016/j.mssp.2022.106571.
Kristmann, K.; Altosaar, M.; Raudoja, J.; Krustok, J.; Pilvet, M.; Mikli, V.; Grossberg, M.; Danilson, M.; Raadik, T. (2022). Pyrite as prospective absorber material for monograin layer solar cell. Thin Solid Films, 743, 139068. DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2021.139068.
Li, X.; Timmo, K.; Grossberg, M.; Pilvet, M.; Kaupmees, R.; Krustok, J.; Muska, K.; Mikli, V.; Kauk-Kuusik, M. (2022). Study of the structure and optoelectronic properties of Cu₂Ge(Se_xS_1-x)₃ microcrystalline powders. Thin Solid Films, 742, 139053. DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2021.139053.
Kondrotas, R.; Nedzinskas, R.; Krustok, J.; Grossberg, M.; Talaikis, M.; Tumenas, S.; Suchodolskis, A.; Zaltauskas, R.; Sereika, R. (2022). Photoreflectance and Photoluminescence Study of Antimony Selenide Crystals. ACS Applied Energy Materials, 5 (12), 14769−14778. DOI: 10.1021/acsaem.2c02131.
Ghisani, F.; Timmo, K.; Altosaar, M.; Oueslati, S.; Pilvet, M.; Kauk-Kuusik, M.; Grossberg, M. (2022). Photoelectrochemical properties and band positions of Cd-substituted tetrahedrite Cu₁₀Cd₂Sb₄S₁₃monograin materials grown in molten CdI₂ and LiI. Thin Solid Films, 741, #139030. DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2021.139030.
Ghisani, F.; Timmo, K.; Altosaar, M.; Mikli, V.; Danilson, M.; Grossberg, M.; Kauk-Kuusik, M. (2022). Chemical etching of tetrahedrite Cu₁₀Cd₂Sb₄S₁₃ monograin powder materials for solar cell applications. Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 138, #106291. DOI: 10.1016/j.mssp.2021.106291.
Remmel, Anna-Liis; Ratso, Sander; Divitini, Giorgio; Danilson, Mati; Mikli, Valdek; Uibu, Mai; Aruvali, Jaan; Kruusenberg, Ivar (2022). Nickel and Nitrogen-Doped Bifunctional ORR and HER Electrocatalysts Derived from CO₂. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, 10 (1), 134−145. DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.1c05250.
Link, S; Yrjas, P; Lindberg, D; Trikkel, A; Mikli, V. (2022). Ash melting behaviour of reed and woody fuels blends. Fuel, 314, #123051. DOI: 10.1016/j.fuel.2021.123051.
Alamgir, A.; Bogatov, A.; Jõgiaas, T.; Viljus, M.; Raadik, T.; Kübarsepp, J.; Sergejev, F.; Lümkemann, A.; Kluson, J.; Podgursky, V. (2022). High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance and Tribological Properties of Al₂O₃/ta-C Coating. Coatings, 12 (4), #547. DOI: 10.3390/coatings12040547.
Marrot, L.; Alao, P. F.; Mikli, V.; Kers, J. (2022). Properties of frost-retted hemp fibres for the reinforcement of composites. Journal of Natural Fibers, 19 (17), 16017−16028. DOI: 10.1080/15440478.2021.1904474.
Kaljuvee, T.; Tonsuaadu, K.; Einard, M.; Mikli, V.; Kivimae, E.-K.; Kallaste, T.; Trikkel, A. (2022). Thermal Behavior of Estonian Graptolite-Argillite from Different Deposits. Processes, 10 (10), #19866. DOI: 10.3390/pr10101986.

Studies

The Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials provides education at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

Materials Technology (BSc)

Studies are conducted in Estonian.

More information (ET)

Green Energy Technology (MSc)

Studies are conducted in Estonian.

More information (ET)

Chemical, Materials and Energy Technology (PhD)

It is possible to continue studies in the doctoral program in Engineering Sciences, specializing in Chemical, Materials, and Energy Technology, and to contribute to research in the field of renewable energy.

More information

About Doctoral Studies

Defended theses

2026, Marc Dolcet Sadurni. Synthesis and Characterization of Sb1 xBixSeI for Optoelectronic Applications (Sb1-xBixSeI süntees ja iseloomustamine optoelektroonilisteks rakendusteks). Supervisors: Kristi Timmo, Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2026, Katriin Reedo. Synthesis and Characterization of Pyrite FeS₂ Microcrystals for Photovoltaic Applications (Püriitsete FeS₂ mikrokristallide süntees ja iseloomustamine päikesepatareides kasutamiseks). Supervisors: Taavi Raadik, Mare Altosaar

2026, Idil Mengü. Radiative Recombination Channels in Kesterite Monograin Powders (Kiirguslikud rekombinatsioonikanalid kesteriitsetes monoterapulbrites). Supervisors: Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk, Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2025, Elizaveta Shmagina. Development of Silicon Oxynitride Nanocomposites with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Protective Coatings for Solar Cells (Üheseinaliste süsiniknanotorudega ränioksünitriidist nanokomposiitmaterjalide arendamine päikesepatareide kaitsekateteks). Supervisor: Sergei Bereznev

2024, Mehmet Ender Uslu. Modification of the Optoelectronic Properties of Sb₂Se₃ Absorber Material for Photovoltaic Applications (Päikesepatarei absorbermaterjali Sb₂Se₃ optoelektroonsete omaduste muutmine). Supervisor: Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk

2022, Aleksei Penežko. Properties of CuSbSe₂ and Sb₂Se₃ Absorber Materials for Solar Cell Applications (Päikesepatarei absorbermaterjalide CuSbSe₂ ja Sb₂Se₃ omaduste uurimine). Supervisors: Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk, Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2022, Fairouz Ghisani. Synthesis and Characterization of Tetrahedrite Cu₁₀Cd₂Sb₄S₁₃ Monograin Powders for Photovoltaic Applications (Tetraedriitsete Cu₁₀Cd₂Sb₄S₁₃ monoterapulbrite süntees ja iseloomustamine kasutamiseks päikesepatareides). Supervisors: Kristi Timmo, Mare Altosaar

2022, Xiaofeng Li. Study of Cu₂Ge(S,Se)₃ and Cu₂CdGe(S,Se)₄ Monograin Powders for Photovoltaic Applications (Cu₂Ge(S,Se)₃ ja Cu₂CdGe(S,Se)₄ monoterapulbrite uurimine ning kasutamine päikesepatareides). Supervisors: Marit Kauk-Kuusik, Kristi Timmo

2021, Akram Abdalla Mohammed Ibrahim. Pulsed Laser Deposition of Zn(O,Se) Layers for Optoelectronic Applications (Impulsslaser-sadestatud Zn(O,Se) kiled optoelektroonseteks rakendusteks). Supervisor: Sergei Bereznev

2021, Reelika Kaupmees. Growth and Optical Properties of Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (Kahedimensionaalsete siirdemetallide dikalkogeniidide kasvatus ning optiliste omaduste uurimine). Supervisors: Jüri Krustok, Maarja Grossberg

2019, Inga Leinemann. Chemical Processes Involved in Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ Synthesis and SnS Recrystallization in a Molten Salt Medium (Keemilised protsessid Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ sünteesil ja SnS rekristallisatsioonil sulade soolade keskkonnas). Juhendajad: Mare Altosaar, Dieter Meissner

2018, Suresh Kumar. Synthesis of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Nano-Powders and Nano-Structured Thin Films (Cu₂ZnSnS₄ nano-pulbrite ja nanostruktuursete kilede süntees). Supervisors: Maarja Grossberg, Mare Altosaar

2017, Jelena Maricheva. Electrodeposition of Cadmium Chalcogenide Films for Hybrid Solar Cells (Kaadmiumkalkogeniidkilede elektrokeemiline sadestamine kasutamiseks hübriid-päikesepatareides). Supervisors: Julia Kois, Sergei Bereznev, Natalia Maticiuc

2017, Maris Pilvet. Study of Cu₂(Zn,Cd)SnS₄ Absorber Materials for Monograin Layer Solar Cells (Päikesepatareides kasutatavate Cu₂(Zn,Cd)SnS₄ absorbermaterjalide uurimine). Supervisor: Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2017, Godswill Chimezie Nkwusi. Formation and Growth of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Monograin Powder in Molten CdI₂ (Cu₂ZnSnS₄ moodustumine ja monoterapulbri kasv CdI₂ sulafaasi keskkonnas). Supervisor: Mare Altosaar

2016, Mati Danilson. Temperature Dependent Electrical Properties of Kesterite Monograin Layer Solar Cells (Kesteriitsete monoterakihiliste päikesepatareideelektriliste omaduste temperatuursõltuvused). Supervisor: Jüri Krustok

2016, Maria Safonova. SnS Thin Films Deposition by Chemical Solution Method and Characterization (SnS õhukeste kilede sadestamine keemilisest lahusest ja saadud kiledeiseloomustamine). Supervisors: Olga Volobujeva, Enn Mellikov

2015, Taavi Raadik. Application of Modulation Spectroscopy Methods in Photovoltaic Materials Research (Modulatsioonspektroskoopia meetodite rakendamine päikeseenergeetika materjalide uurimiseks). Supervisors: Jüri Krustok, Maarja Grossberg

2014, Julia Lehner. Formation of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ and Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ by Chalcogenisation of Electrochemically Deposited Precursor Layers (Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ ja Cu₂ZnSnS₄ moodustumine elektrokeemiliselt sadestatud kihtide kalkogeniseerimisel). Supervisors: Olga Volobujeva, Enn Mellikov

2012, Katri Muska. Study of Composition and Thermal Treatments of Quaternary Compounds for Monograin Layer Solar Cells (Päikesepatareides kasutatavate monoterapulbriliste nelikühendite koostise ja termotöötluste uurimine). Supervisor: Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2011, Liina Kaupmees. Selenization of Molybdenum as Contact Material in Solar Cells (Molübdeeni kui päikesepatarei kontaktmaterjali seleniseerimine). Supervisor: Mare Altosaar

2011, Kristi Timmo. Formation of Properties of CuInSe₂ and Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ Monograin Powders Synthesized in Molten KI (Kaaliumjodiidsulandaja keskkonnas kasvatatud monoterapulbrite CuInSe₂ ja Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ omaduste kujundamine). Supervisor: Mare Altosaar

2010, Maarja Grossberg. Optical Properties of Multinary Semiconductor Compounds for Photovoltaic Applications (Päikesepatareides kasutatavate mitmikpooljuhtühendite optilised omadused). Supervisor: Jüri Krustok

2010, Kristjan Laes. Preparation and Impedance Spectroscopy of Hybrid Structures Based on CuIn₃Se₅ Photoabsorber (Hübriidsete CuIn₃Se₅ fotoabsorberstruktuuride valmistamine ja impedantsispektroskoopia). Supervisors: Sergei Bereznev, Andres Öpik

2009, Kaja Ernits. Study of In₂S₃ and ZnS thin films deposited by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis and chemical deposition (Ultraheli pihustuspürolüüsi ja keemilise sadestamise meetodil kasvatatud In₂S₃ ja ZnS õhukeste kilede uurimine) Supervisor: Mare Altosaar

2008, Olga Volobujeva. SEM study of selenization of different thin metallic films (Õhukeste metallikilede seleniseerimise elektronmikroskoopiline uurimine). Supervisor: Enn Mellikov

2006, Julia Kois. Electrochemical Deposition of CuInSe₂ Thin Filmsfor Photovoltaic Applications (CuInSe₂ õhukesed kiled elektrokeemilise sadestamise meetodil). Supervisor: Enn Mellikov

2006, Marit Kauk. Chemical Composition of CuInSe₂ Monograin Powders for Solar Cell Application (CuInSe₂ monoterapulbri koostise uurimine ja rakendus päikesepatareides) Supervisor: Mare Altosaar

2006, Anrdi Jagomägi. Photoluminescence of Chalcopyrite Tellurides (Kalkopüriitsete telluriidide fotoluminestsents). Supervisor: Jüri Krustok

2026

2025, Moona Kilk. Cd legeerimise mõju Sb₂Se₃ optilistele omadustele (The Effect of Cd Doping on the Optical Properties of Sb₂Se₃). Supervisors: Reelika Kaupmees, Nafiseh Abbasi

2025, Laura Kim. (Ag_xCu_1-x)₂ZnSnS₄ (x=0-1) kesteriitsete materjalide süntees ja karakteriseerimine (Synthesis and Characterization of (Ag_xCu_1-x)₂ZnSnS₄ (x=0-1) Kesterites). Supervisor: Katri Muska

2025, Liisa Kumar. Zn(O,S) puhverkihi sadestamine keemilise vanni meetodil (Chemical Bath Deposition of Zn(O,S) Buffer Layer). Supervisor: Kristi Timmo

2025, Mia-Maria Meldorf. Nikkeloksiidi kilede vesilahusest sadestamine, järeltöötlused ja karakteriseerimine (Deposition of Nickel Oxide thin Films by Chemical Bath Deposition, Post-Treatments and Characterization). Supervisors: Katriin Kristmann, Taavi Raadik

2025, Krista Krull. Hõbedaga modifitseeritud Cu₂GeS₃ monoterapulbri pinnaanalüüs röntgen- ja ultraviolett-fotoelektronspektroskoopia meetodil (Surface Analysis of Silver-Modified Cu₂GeS₃ Monograin Powder by X-ray and Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy Methods). Supervisors: Marit Kauk-Kuusik, Mati Danilson

2025, Peeter Hansen. Päikesepaneelide ümbertöötlemise võimalused Eestis (Solar Panels Recycling Opportunities in Estonia). Supervisors: Niina Dulova, Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk

2025, Annaly Gutjuma. Püriitsete FeS₂ mikrokristallide süntees-kasvatus ja fosforiga legeerimine monoterakiht-päikesepatareides kasutamiseks (Synthesis-Growth and Phosphorus Doping of Pyrite FeS₂ Microcrystals for Monograin Layer Solar Cells). Supervisors:: Katriin Kristmann, Taavi Raadik

2024, Samuel Kanarbik. Cu₂ZnSnS₄ kristallvõre korrastamatuse uurimine toatemperatuurse fotoluminestsentsi ja Raman spektroskoopia abil (Study of Structural Disorder in Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Monograin Powders by RTPL and Raman Spectroscopy). Supervisor: Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2024, Evelin Kütt. Roofit.Solari NuClick ehitisintegreeritud päikesepaneelide elutsükli analüüs (Life Cycle Assessment of the Roofit.Solar NuClick Building Integrated Photovoltaic Panels). Supervisors: Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk, Niina Dulova

2024, Meeli-Mari Napp. Keskkonnasõbralike kalkogeniidperovskiitide sünteesimine ja karakteriseerimine (Synthesis and Characterization of Environmentally Friendly Chalcogenide Perovskites). Supervisor: Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2024, Anna-Liis Mägi. Päikest jälgivate elektritootmissüsteemide kasutamise võimalused Eestis läbi arvutusliku ja majandusliku analüüsi (Possibilities of Using Photovoltaic Tracking Systems in Estonia Through Computational and Economic Analysis). Supervisors: Taavi Raadik, Robert Mägi

2024, Henri Lass. Ehitisintegreeritud päikesepaneelide fassaadilahenduse arendus (Development of a Building Integrated Photovoltaic Facade Solution). Supervisor: Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk

2024, Anneli Ojaste. Väävlirikka õhukese pinnakihi moodustamine Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ monoterapulbri kristallidele (Formation of a Sulfur-Rich Thin Surface Layer on Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ Monograin Powder Crystals). Supervisor: Kristi Timmo

2024, Kristiina Tammik. Elutsükli analüüs viilkatusesse ja kivikatusesse integreeritud päikesepaneelidele (Life Cycle Assessment of Gable Roof and Tiled Roof Integrated Solar Panels). Supervisors: Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk, Niina Dulova

2023, Ivan Kuznietsov. Antimonseleniidi õhukeste kilede dopeerimine katioonvahetuse meetodil (Doping of antimony selenide thin films by cation exchange). Supervisors: Svetlana Polivtseva, Olga Volobujeva

2023, Tatiana Vaarik. Antimoonseleniidi õhukeste kilede süntees katioonivahetuse meetodil (Antimony selenide thin films by cation exchange). Supervisors: Olga Volobujeva, Svetlana Polivtseva

2023, Andrus Vaarik. TiO₂ õhukeste kilede sadestamine laserablatsiooni meetodil (Pulsed laser deposition of TiO₂ thin films). Supervisors: Sergei Bereznev, Maris Pilvet

2022, Kaia Liisa Hakk. Seleen-monoterakiht päikesepatarei arendamine (Development of selenium monograin layer solar cell). Supervisors: Taavi Raadik, Mare Altosaar

2022, Marc Dolcet Sadurni. Väävli aururõhu töötluste mõju Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monoterapulbrite omadustele ja päikesepatarei väljundparameetritele (Impact of sulfur annealing on the Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monograin powder properties and solar cell parameters). Supervisor: Kristi Timmo

2021, Idil Mengü. Sb₂Se₃ Defektstruktuuri uuringud kasutades fotoluminestsents spektroskoopiat (Photoluminescence study of defects in Sb₂Se₃). Supervisor: Maarja Grossberg

2021, Katriin Kristmann. Püriitse FeS₂ pulbri süntees-kasvatus kasutamiseks monoterakiht-päikesepatareides (Synthesis-growth and charcterization of FeS₂ pyrite powders for monograin layer solar cell). Supervisors: Taavi Raadik, Mare Altosaar

2021, Seyyedmahan Khatami. Cu₂Zn(Sn,Sb)S₄ monoterapulbrite ja neil põhinevate päikesepatareide optoelektroonsete omaduste uuringud (Study of Optoelectronic Propoerties of Cu₂Zn(Sn,Sb)S₄ Monograin Powders and Corresponding Solar Cells). Supervisor: Maarja Grossberg

2021, Sharath Chandra Pottabathini. Cu₂CdGeSe₄ Faasi kujunemine monoterapulbri sünteesi protsessis erinevates sulandajates (Phase Evolution of Cu₂CdGeSe₄ Monograin Powdwers during the Syntesis process in Different Flux Materials). Supervisors: Marit Kauk-Kuusik, Xiaofeng Li

2021, Ali Fahad. Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monoterapulbrite sünteeskasvatis LiI, NaI, KI, RbI ja CsI sulades soolades (Characterization of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Monograin Powders Grown in Molten LiI, NaI, KI, RbI and CsI). Supervisors: Kristi Timmo, Fairouz Ghisani

2020, Wisdom Chukwubuike Abazie. Osaline katioonasendus Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monoterapulbrites ja selle mõju päikesepatarei väljundparameetritele (Partial Cation Substitution in Cu₂ZnSnS₄ Monograin Powders for Solar Cell Application). Supervisor: Kristi Timmo

2020, Robert Beglaryan. Cu₂CdGeSe₄-l baseeruvate monoterakihiliste päikesepatareide temperatuurist sõltuv optoelektriline iseloomustamine (Temperature-dependent optoelectrical characterization of Cu₂CdGeSe₄-based monograin layer solar cells). Supervisor: Mati Danilson

2020, Bouchaara Anouar. Paksuse mõju uurimine impulsslaser-sadestus meetodil valmistatud Zn(O,S) kihtide omadustele (Study of Thickness Effect on Properties of F Zn(O,S) Layers Prepared by Pulsed Laser Depostion). Supervisors: Sergei Bereznev, Mohammed Ibrahim Akram Abdalla

2020, Levan Chikviladze. Kesteriit päikesepatareid kasutamaks kosmose keskkonnas (Kestetite Solar Cells for Extraterrestrial Applications). Juhendajad: Taavi Raadik, Kaia Ernits

2019, Joseph Olanrewaju Adegite. Magnetronpihustatud Sb₂Se₃ õhukeste kilede sadestusjärgse termotöötlemine (Post Deposition Thermal Treatment of Sputtered Antimony Selenide Thin Films) Supervisors: Olga Volobujeva, Svetlana Polivtseva

2019, Mehmet Ender Uslu. CdS puhverkihi optimeerimine Cu(In,Ga)Se₂ monoterakiht päikesepatereidele (Optimization of CBD-CdS Process for Cu(In,Ga)Se₂ Monograin Layer Solar Cells). Supervisors: Marit Kauk-Kuusik, Maris Pilvet

2018, Sergii Akhinko. Adhesiivne päikesepaneelide integreerimine metallist ehitusmaterjalidega (Adhesive integration of photovoltaic modules on metal building materials). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2018, Olexander Dolgykh. Päikesepaneelide puhtuse automaatne monitoorimine (Automatic dust cover detection in photovoltaic modules). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2018, Segii Dolgykh. LED elementide integreerimine elektrit tootvatesse ehitusmaterjalidesse (Self-illuminated photovoltaic facades). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2018, Arthur Dzhaforov. Veebipõhine päikesepaneelide tootluse arvutusprogramm Olmo mudeli baasil (Online photovoltaic performance calculator based on the Olmo model). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2018, Xiaofeng Li. Cu₂CdGeSe₄ monoterapulbrite süntees sulades soolades (Growth of Cu₂CdGeSe₄ monograin powders in molten salts). Supervisor: Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2018, Dmitry Shiryaev. Ehitisintegreeritud päikesepaneelide mõju autonoomse kontorihoone energiatarbele ja sisekliimale (Effect of a photovoltaic envelope on the energy performance and the indoor climate of an off-grid office building in Estonia). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2018, Büşra Yılmaz. Värviliste ehitisintegreeritud päikesepaneelide arendus metallkatustele (Development of coloured BIPV systems on metal roofs). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2017, Denisa Dosenovicova. Polüpürooli fotoelektrokeemiline sadestamine amorfse räni hübriidsete päikesepatareide valmistamiseks (Hybrid solar cells prepared by selective photoelectrochemical deposition of polypyrrole onto amorphous silicon). Supervisors: Sergei Bereznev, Jelena Maricheva

2017, Adekunle Idris Lasisi. Kaaliumi mõju uurimine Cu2(Zn,Cd)SnS₄ monoterapulbri omadustele (Investigation of potassium doping on Cu2(Zn,Cd)SnS₄ monograin powder properties). Supervisors: Marit Kauk-Kuusik, Kristi Timmo

2017, Kang Zhong. Vask-tsink-tina-seleniid monoteramembraan-päikesepatarei p-n ülemineku modifitseerimine (Modification of p-n junction of copper-zinc-tin-selenide monograin layer solar cells). Supervisors: Mare Altosaar, LiinaReichmann

2017, Ge Xin. PLD meetodil sadestatud Cu₂ZnSnS₄ kilede struktuuri ja koostise uurimine (Investigation of morphology and composition of Cu₂ZnSnS₄ thin films prepared by pulsed laser deposition). Supervisors: Valdek Mikli, Sergei Bereznev

2017, Dmytro Yakobiuk. Autonoomse ehitisintegreeritud päikesepaneelidega toiduainetekuivati prototüüp (Development of autonomous food dehydration system based on building intergrated PVT technology). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2017, Iryna Yakobiuk. Ehitisintegreeritud päikesepaneelide baasil toimiva toiduainete kuivati teostatavuse teoreetiline analüüs (Simulations of building integrated photovoltaic-thermal food dehydrator with heat recovery). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2016, Hrachya Kocharyan. SnS fotoabsorberi kihtide vaakumaurustamine (High Vacuum Evaporation of SnS Photoabsorber Films). Supervisors: Sergei Bereznev, Revathi Naidu

2016, Sha Li. Vask-tsink-tina-sulfiid-tüüpi päikesepatarei puhverkihi optimeerimine (Optimization of Buffer Layer for Copper-Zinc-Tin-Sulfide-based Solar Cells). Supervisors: Mare Altosaar, Maris Pilvet

2015, Xingxig Kong. Schottky kontaktide analüüs Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monoterakihtide baasil (Schottky contact analysis for Cu₂ZnSnS₄ monograin membranes). Supervisors: Marit Kauk-Kuusik, Erkki Kask

2015, Adegoke John Adeola. Monoterapulbrilise Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ sünteeskasvatuse võrdlus erinevates sulades soolades (Comparative Study of Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ monograin Power Synthesis in Different Molten Salts). Supervisor: Kristi Timmo

2015, Rosalio Rubio Alvarado. Hooajaline päikeseenergia salvestamine faasiüleminekuga materjalides. Materjalide valik ning süsteemi optimeerimine Eesti kliimas (Seasonal heat storage in Northern European buildings. Selection of the thermal storage media and the optimization of the system design based on Estonian climate). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2015, Henry Yusinyu Binyui. Ehitisintegreeritud päikeseelektri süsteemi jääksoojuse kasutamine (Waste Heat Management of Building Integrated Photovoltaics System). Supervisor: Andri Jagomägi

2015, Ayobami Solomon Oyewo. Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ absorbermaterjali pinna keemiline modifitseerimine enne p-n ülemineku moodustamist (Chemical modification of Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ solar cell absorber surface before p-n junction formation). Supervisors: Mare Altosaar, Marit Kauk-Kuusik

2014, Kadri Kaarna. Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ monoterapulbrite kasvatus sulas kaaliumjodiidis (Growth of Cu₂ZnSnSe₄ Monograin Powders in Molten Potassium Iodide). Supervisors: Kristi Timmo, Mare Altosaar

Equipment & Services

NAMUR+ HR-SEM services
The Department of Materials and Environmental Technology at Tallinn University of Technology is offering the service of nanoscale materials characterization with high-resolution Scanning Electron Microscope (HR-SEM) Zeiss MERLIN i.e studies of morphology, phase- and elemental composition and electrical properties of the materials.

The Zeiss MERLIN HR-SEM is part of the Centre for Nanomaterials Technologies and Research (NAMUR+), a facility included in the Estonian Research Infrastructure Roadmap. Additionally, we have Zeiss Ultra 55. Devices enable nanoscale imaging of surface morphology and cross-sectional structures, including particle size and thin-film thickness measurements. Complementary techniques provide elemental analysis and mapping (EDS), crystallographic characterization (EBSD), and investigation of charge-carrier collection using electron-beam-induced current (EBIC). Sample preparation and expert support with data interpretation are available.

The system “miBotTM BT-14 on the 4-Bot stage” (Imina Technologies) acquired under NAMUR+ enable electrical measurements from micrometer down to the nanometer scale under electron microscope. The whole system features up to four piezoactuated manipulators allowing independent positioning of the probes over few millimeters with a resolution up to 40 nm.

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The Kratos AXIS Ultra DLD uses X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to determine the elemental composition and chemical states within the near-surface region of materials (approximately 2–8 nm). Small-area analysis and chemical imaging enable the investigation of spatial variations in surface composition. Excitation sources include monochromatic Al Kα radiation (1486.6 eV) and non-monochromatic Mg Kα (1253.6 eV) and Al Kα (1486.6 eV) radiation.

Ar⁺ ion sputtering is used for surface cleaning and compositional depth profiling. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) enables the investigation of valence-band electronic structure using He I (21.2 eV) and He II (40.8 eV) radiation from a helium discharge lamp. Automated measurements allow multiple samples to be analysed at predefined positions on a sample holder up to 130 mm long and 15 mm wide.

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The HORIBA LabRAM 800HR enables the investigation of material vibrational spectra over a Raman shift range of 50–4000 cm⁻¹, using 532 nm and 633 nm excitation lasers. Available microscope objectives include 10×, 50×, long-working-distance 50× (LWD) and 100×. Measurements can be performed at temperatures of 77–325 K. The system also supports Raman mapping and micro-photoluminescence measurements in the visible spectral range using a Si CCD detector.

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The Bruker MultiMode 8 enables nanoscale characterisation of material surface topography. PeakForce Tapping technology and complementary measurement modes, combined with suitable accessories, allow simultaneous mapping of topography and local electrical and nanomechanical properties.

The system includes two scanners: an E scanner with a scan area of 10 × 10 µm and a vertical range of 2.5 µm, and a J scanner with a scan area of 125 × 125 µm and a vertical range of 5.0 µm. Image resolution is 512 × 512 pixels. The Z-axis noise level is below 0.3 Å RMS, measured in air in Tapping mode at zero scan size. Samples can be up to 15 mm in diameter and 5 mm thick.

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The Agilent Cary 5000 measures optical transmittance and absorbance across the ultraviolet, visible and near-infrared spectral regions, covering wavelengths of 175–3300 nm. It supports the optical characterization of thin films, coatings and solutions. Measurements enable analysis of absorption edges and estimation of semiconductor band gaps. Reflectance spectra can also be measured using suitable accessories.

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The photoluminescence (PL) system investigates optical properties, defects and charge-carrier recombination in semiconductors and solar cells. Measurements cover 8–300 K using a Janis CCS-150 closed-cycle helium cryostat and a LakeShore 335 temperature controller.

Excitation is provided at 532 nm by either a Cobolt 08-DPL continuous-wave laser or a CryLaS FQSS266-Q2 pulsed laser with a pulse duration below 1 ns and a repetition rate of 10 kHz. Neutral-density filters control excitation power. Emission is analysed using a Horiba Jobin Yvon FHR640 monochromator (0.64 m focal length), photomultiplier detectors and a Stanford SR810 lock-in amplifier.

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The NETZSCH STA 449 F3 Jupiter simultaneously records sample mass changes (TG) and heat flow (DSC) under identical experimental conditions. The system supports investigations of phase transitions, thermal decomposition, volatile release, and reactions during pyrolysis and oxidation. Measurements are performed over a temperature range of 25–1500 °C at heating or cooling rates of 0.1–10 K/min. The combined mass of the sample and crucible can be up to 35 g. Sealed-system measurements are performed exclusively in quartz ampoules.

The Newport Oriel 91195A enables solar cell performance assessment under controlled illumination. An AM1.5G filter reproduces the terrestrial solar spectrum, with irradiance adjusted to 1000 W/m², equivalent to one sun. Combined with an electrical measurement system, the simulator supports current–voltage characterisation and determination of power conversion efficiency, open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current density and fill factor.

The Sciencetech PTS measures solar cell external quantum efficiency (EQE, also known as IPCE) and spectral responsivity as a function of wavelength. EQE quantifies the fraction of incident photons that contribute collected charge carriers to the external circuit. Measurements support the assessment of spectral response and the analysis of optical and charge-carrier collection losses. EQE spectra can also be used to calculate the expected short-circuit current density under a specified illumination spectrum.

The magnetron sputtering systems enable thin-film deposition for the development of solar cells and other optoelectronic devices. The AJA International system is used to deposit oxide layers, including ZnO and indium tin oxide (ITO), which serve as transparent conductive layers and contacts. The Angstrom EvoVac provides additional thin-film deposition capabilities. Deposition parameters are adjusted to tailor film thickness, structure, and optical and electrical properties.

The Neocera pulsed laser deposition (PLD) system enables the fabrication of high-quality, uniform thin films from both sublimable and non-sublimable materials. Substrate rotation and heating are available, accommodating one substrate up to 2 inches in diameter or multiple smaller substrates. The maximum substrate temperature is 900 °C, and the operating pressure ranges from 5 × 10⁻⁷ Torr to 500 mTorr. The target holder accommodates six 1-inch or three 2-inch diameter targets. Deposition uses a 248 nm UV excimer laser with a pulse duration of 20 ns, pulse energies up to 400 mJ and a maximum repetition rate of 20 Hz. The average laser power is 6 W. The system supports the fabrication of multicomponent films and layered structures for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications.

The facility includes a Nabertherm muffle furnace, an MTI OTF-1200X-III-ETFK three-zone tube furnace, a Carbolite HZS-2G gradient tube furnace and a CY-RTP1500-Φ70-400-T rapid thermal processing (RTP) furnace. The equipment is used for materials synthesis and post-treatment to tailor phase composition, crystal structure and physical properties. The Nabertherm furnace operates at temperatures up to 1100 °C, with a controller capable of storing more than eight thermal programmes. The tube furnaces enable tailored temperature profiles and controlled thermal gradients. The RTP furnace extends these capabilities to rapid heating cycles and short-duration annealing treatments.

Contact

Location

Tallinn University of Technology

Ehitajate tee 5, Tallinn

Study building U06

Campus map

Contact person

Head of Laboratory, Associate Professor Marit Kauk-Kuusik

Mobile: 55688092

Phone: 6203360

E-mail: [email protected]

Department of Materials and Environmental Technology

Table of Contents

Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials

Staff