Synthesis and properties of quantum dot-polypyrrole nanotube composites for photovoltaic application

A novel method for the fabrication of polypyrrole nanotubes (PPyNTs) possessing quantum dots (QDs) was developed for optoelectronic devices. PbSe QDs were effectively attached to the thiolated PPyNT-SH without affecting the dispersion stability of QDs and hence ensuring their homogeneous distribution in the polymer. Transmission electron microscopic images showed a large number of PbSe QDs absorbed in PPyNT-SH. The polymer nanotube composites were also investigated for the application of photovoltaic cells. An open circuit voltage (V(oc)) of 0.45 V and short-circuit photocurrent density (I(sc)) of 2.4 microA cm(-2) were found in P3HT/PPyNT-PbSe polymeric solar cells. Further optimization will be provided by changing various parameters and conditions.