Application of ZnxCd1−xSe-sensitized TiO2 nanotube arrays as photoanodes for solar cells

Abstract

This study reports the synthesis of Zn_xCd_1−xSe quantum dot-sensitized titania nanotube array photoelectrodes using a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction technique and evaluates the photoelectrochemical performance as anodes. The effect of altering the number of sensitization cycles and annealing temperature on optical and photoelectrochemical properties of prepared photoanodes was studied. Surface morphology of the sensitized tubes was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, while the phase composition was determined using X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques. Spectral response measurements indicated that TiO₂ nanotube arrays coupled with Zn_xCd_1−xSe quantum dots synthesized in 7 cycles of deposition and annealed at 300 °C for 1 h under N₂ exhibited excellent photoelectrochemical properties. The notably high photovoltaic characteristics demonstrate the potential of the Zn_xCd_1−xSe/TiO₂ heterostructure as an efficient photoanode.