REAR-POINT-CONTACT PROCESS FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS

摘要

Embodiments of the invention generally relate to methods for performing rear-point-contact processes on substrates, particularly solar cell substrates. The methods generally include disposing a substrate on a substrate support which functions as a mask during deposition of a passivation layer on a back surface of the substrate. A process gas is introduced to an area between the back surface of the substrate and the substrate support in order to deposit the passivation layer on the back surface of the substrate. The deposited passivation layer has openings therethrough in order to facilitate electrical contact of the substrate with a metallization layer subsequently formed over the passivation layer. The passivation layer is formed without requiring a separate patterning and etching process of the passivation layer.