Transparent Conducting Oxides: Status and Opportunities in Basic Research

In this paper, we begin by discussing the historical background of transparent conducting oxides and then make some general remarks about their typical properties. This is followed by a short discussion of the desired properties for future applications (particularly photovoltaic devices). These are ambitious objectives but they provide targets for future basic research and development. Althoughit may be possible to obtain these properties in the laboratory, it is vital to ensure that account is taken of industrial perceptions to the development of the next generation of materials. Hence, we spend some time discussing industrial criteria. Next, we discuss key physical properties that determine the macroscopic physical properties that, in turn, affect the performance of devices.Finally, we select several key topics that ought to be included in future basic research programs.