Investigation of Electrochemical
Deposition in a Reduced Gravity Environment
Florida Institute of Technology
We are investigating the electrochemically deposition copper indium
diselenide (CIS) polycrystalline thin films in a microgravity environment.
CIS is of interest for its possible use in thin film photovoltaics. CIS
grown on Earth has a large number of structural and electronic defects.
These defects have a profound effect on CIS solar cell performance. We
are investigating the gravitational effects on crystal growth and surface
morphology by comparing crystals grown on Earth to those grown on the
KC-135. We have designed an electrodeposition system for this program.
This system will serve as a prototype for a system that will fly aboard
the Space Shuttle later this year, in conjuction with the NASA Get Away
Special (G.A.S.) program.
Visit our web site at: Florida Tech Microgravity
