Solar cell patterning and metallization

A method for forming a patterned conductor on a solar cell, comprising:

• depositing a sacrificial polymer layer over a surface of the solar cell, wherein the sacrificial polymer layer comprises a water soluble material;
• curing the sacrificial polymer layer to a substantially solid state;
• directing a water-based fluid stream at the sacrificial polymer layer;
• removing a portion of the sacrificial polymer layer, wherein one or more lines are formed through the sacrificial polymer layer;
• depositing a metal containing seed layer over the solar cell;
• introducing a water-based solvent to the solar cell;
• and
• dissolving the remaining sacrificial polymer layer to remove a portion of the metal containing layer deposited over the sacrificial polymer layer.

A method for forming a patterned conductor on a solar cell, comprising:

• depositing a sacrificial polymer layer over an antireflective layer formed over a surface of the solar cell, wherein the sacrificial polymer layer comprises polyvinyl acetate;
• heating the sacrificial polymer layer to cure the polymer to a substantially solid state;
• directing a jet of deionized water at the sacrificial polymer layer;
• removing a portion of the sacrificial polymer layer by forming one or more lines through the sacrificial polymer layer;
• laser ablating a portion of the antireflective layer exposed by forming the lines;
• depositing a metal containing layer over the solar cell;
• introducing deionized water to the solar cell;
• and
• dissolving the remaining sacrificial polymer layer to remove a portion of the metal containing layer deposited over the sacrificial polymer layer.