The Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB) conducts research on complex systems of materials. The HZB research portfolio includes solar cells, solar fuels, thermoelectrics, and materials for new, energy-efficient information technologies (spintronics) or electrochemical energy storage. Research on these energy materials is closely connected with the operation and advanced development of the BESSY II photon source.

The group Real-time Growth Analysis (contact Roland Mainz) investigates complex growth processes of compound semiconductor thin films. Detailed insights into the reaction processes during the formation of thin films are gained by in situ diffraction and fluorescence analysis (XRD/XRF) as well as optical reflectometry in combination with numerical modeling. For the real-time measurements rapid thermal annealing or coevaporation of thin film materials is performed in dedicated custom-built process chambers. The understanding of the complex reactions taking place during the thin film deposition is essential for improvements of existing processes as well as for the development of novel processes and solar cell concepts.