Ametek, Inc.

Mitchell E Doty

Peter V Meyers

Jacob F Betz

Gabor F Fulop

Ferenc J Schmidt

Thom V Bernitsky

A gas sensor comprises a photovoltaic cell which, upon exposure to light, develops a photovoltage or photocurrent which varies as a function of the type of gas sorbed. The cell includes in order a conductor, an N-type light-absorbing semiconductor, and a thin light-transmitting gas-absorbing metal Schottky layer having electrical properties which vary with the type of gas sorbed therein.

Gas sensor

Process and apparatus are disclosed for forming excellent quality, large area thin films essentially without discontinuities and inhomogenuities, particularly for photovoltaic solar cells. The reactants are conducted past a heated substrate in a relatively thin gap, e.g., 0.030 inch, in a turbulent flow. In a specific embodiment, the reactants are contained in nebuli of an atomized solution, and the nebuli are sorted, preferably by gravity, prior to introduction thereof into the gap to prevent introduction of larger size nebuli into the reaction gap.

Process and apparatus for forming thin films

Photovoltaic cell comprises thin film cadmium telluride in ohmic contact with a conductive substrate, preferbaly comprising a cadmium surface, through a cadmium-rich layer at the interface with the substrate. The cell further includes a rectifying barrier layer which may be a Schottky barrier. The film is electrodeposited on the substrate surface and the substrate materials and electrodeposition conditions are controlled so as to produce a substantially stoichiometric deposit. Preferably, the film or cell is subsequently treated to enhance its efficiency.

Cadmium telluride photovoltaic cells

Photovoltaic cell comprises thin film cadmium telluride in ohmic contact with a smooth conductive substrate, preferably comprising a cadmium surface, through a cadmium-rich layer at the interface with the substrate, the cell further including a rectifying barrier layer. Preferably, the film is electrodeposited on the substrate surface with specific materials and process conditions. Preferably also, the film or cell is subsequently treated to enhance its barrier layer interface function.

Growing community of inventors

Chalfont, PA, United States of America

Mitchell E Doty