Role of surface modification of CdS nanoparticles on the performance of hybrid photovoltaic devices based on p-phenylenevinylene derivate

• Published in: Physica. E, Low-dimensional systems & nanostructures Vol. 69; pp. 145 - 152
• Main Authors: Bel Haj Mohamed, N., Haouari, M., Ebdelli, R., Zaaboub, Z., Habchi, M.M., Hassen, F., Maaref, H., Ben Ouada, H.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.05.2015
• Subjects: CdS nanoparticules; Excitons separation; Photovoltaic device; Surface modification; Thiophenol; Time resolved photoluminescence; Excitons separation; Surface modification; Photovoltaic device; Time resolved photoluminescence; CdS nanoparticules; Thiophenol
• ISSN: 1386-9477; 1873-1759
• DOI: 10.1016/j.physe.2015.01.031

The role of organic capping ligand of semiconductor nanoparticles in dictating the interfacial charge transfer processes in hybrid semiconductor nanoparticles/polymer-based photovoltaic devices is investigated. Morphology, optical and structural study of the CdS nanoparticles and the hybrid material were accomplished using X-ray diffraction (XRD), absorption (UV–vis), atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) and time resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy (PLRT). A broad band absorption in UV–visible region and considerable fluorescence quenching of MEH-PPV in the composites are noted indicating a photo-induced charge transfer and dissociation of excitons. Time-resolved photoluminescence measurements indicating decreased lifetime further confirm this process. The solar cells open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current were improved using thiophenol modified CdS nanoparticles as electron acceptor in comparison to MEH-PPV only device demonstrating a promising approach to enhance charge transport in the hybrid nanoparticles–polymer composite photovoltaic cells (PV). •A novel strategy to synthesize CdS nanocrystal modified with thiophenol (PHSH).•CdS–PHSH NCs are used as an acceptor in a MEH-PPV.•Pl and PLRT measurement provided evidence for charge transfer at the interface.•Thiophenol passivated CdS in conjunction with MEH-PPV is a promising composite for hybrid solar cell.