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Enhanced photoconductivity in CdS/betanin composite nanostructures
N Susha1, K Nandakumar2, Swapna S Nair1
1Dept. of Physics, Central University of Kerala Kasaragod India - 671314.
RSC Advances
|May 11, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed novel CdS/betanin core/shell structures for thin film solar cells. This natural dye shell enhances light absorption and conductivity, paving the way for more efficient flexible energy harvesters.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Photovoltaics
Background:
- Thin film solar cells require novel materials for improved efficiency and flexibility.
- Cadmium sulfide (CdS) is a common window material, but its photoconductivity needs optimization.
- Organic shells on inorganic cores are underexplored for tailoring photoconductivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize CdS/betanin core/shell structures.
- To investigate the effect of betanin shell on CdS optical and electrical properties.
- To explore the potential of these composites for enhanced solar cell performance.
Main Methods:
- Wet chemical synthesis of CdS/betanin core/shell nanoparticles.
- Spectroscopic analysis (UV-Vis absorption) to study optical properties.
- Conductivity measurements under white light illumination.
Main Results:
- Successful synthesis of CdS/betanin core/shell structures with ~10 nm CdS cores.
- Betanin shell introduction created a redshifted absorption band, enhancing light absorption efficiency.
- Significant increase in conductivity observed in composites upon illumination due to electron transfer.
Conclusions:
- CdS/betanin core/shell structures offer enhanced light absorption and photoconductivity.
- Natural dye integration presents a novel strategy for optimizing inorganic solar cell materials.
- These findings suggest potential for improved efficiency in CdS-based thin film solar cells.
