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Zhang H, Liu J, Besteiro LV, Selopal GS, Zhao Z, Sun S, Rosei F. Advanced Interface Engineering in Gradient Core/Shell Quantum Dots Enables Efficient Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Evolution. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306203. [PMID: 38128031 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Semiconductor core/shell quantum dots (QDs) are considered promising building blocks to fabricate photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells for the direct conversion of solar energy into hydrogen (H2). However, the lattice mismatch between core and shell in such QDs results in undesirable defects and severe carrier recombination, limiting photo-induced carrier separation/transfer and solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency. Here, an interface engineering approach is explored to minimize the core-shell lattice mismatch in CdS/CdSexS1-x (x = 0.09-1) core/shell QDs (g-CSG). As a proof-of-concept, PEC cells based on g-CSG QDs yield a remarkable photocurrent density of 13.1 mA cm-2 under AM 1.5 G one-sun illumination (100 mW cm-2), which is ≈54.1% and ≈33.7% higher compared to that in CdS/CdSe0.5S0.5 (g-CSA) and CdS/CdSe QDs (g-CS), respectively. Theoretical calculations and carrier dynamics confirm more efficient carrier separation and charge transfer rate in g-CSG QDs with respect to g-CSA and g-CS QDs. These results are attributed to the minimization of the core-shell lattice mismatch by the cascade gradient shell in g-CSG QDs, which modifies carrier confinement potential and reduces interfacial defects. This work provides fundamental insights into the interface engineering of core/shell QDs and may open up new avenues to boost the performance of PEC cells for H2 evolution and other QDs-based optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- School of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Xidian University, Xi'an, 710126, P. R. China
| | - Jiabin Liu
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1P7, Canada
| | | | - Gurpreet S Selopal
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1P7, Canada
- Department of Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS, B2N 5E3, Canada
| | - Zhenhuan Zhao
- School of Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Xidian University, Xi'an, 710126, P. R. China
| | - Shuhui Sun
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1P7, Canada
| | - Federico Rosei
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1P7, Canada
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Wang K, Tao Y, Tang Z, Xu X, Benetti D, Vidal F, Zhao H, Rosei F, Sun X. Efficient Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation Based on Core Size Effect of Heterostructured Quantum Dots. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306453. [PMID: 38032174 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are shown to be effective as light-harvesting sensitizers of metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen (H2) generation. The CdSe/CdS core/shell architecture is widely studied due to their tunable absorption range and band alignment via engineering the size of each composition, leading to efficient carrier separation/transfer with proper core/shell band types. However, until now the effect of core size on the PEC performance along with tailoring the core/shell band alignment is not well understood. Here, by regulating four types of CdSe/CdS core/shell QDs with different core sizes (diameter of 2.8, 3.1, 3.5, and 4.8 nm) while the thickness of CdS shell remains the same (thickness of 2.0 ± 0.1 nm), the Type II, Quasi-Type II, and Type I core/shell architecture are successfully formed. Among these, the optimized CdSe/CdS/TiO2 photoelectrode with core size of 3.5 nm can achieve the saturated photocurrent density (Jph) of 17.4 mA cm-2 under standard one sun irradiation. When such cores are further optimized by capping alloyed shells, the Jph can reach values of 22 mA cm2 which is among the best-performed electrodes based on colloidal QDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanghong Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3×1P7, Canada
- Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology China, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Yi Tao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Zikun Tang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolan Xu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Daniele Benetti
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3×1P7, Canada
| | - François Vidal
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3×1P7, Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles & College of Physics, University-Industry Joint Center for Ocean Observation and Broadband Communication, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Federico Rosei
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3×1P7, Canada
| | - Xuhui Sun
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
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Ahmed A, Zahir Iqbal M, Dahshan A, Aftab S, Hegazy HH, Yousef ES. Recent advances in 2D transition metal dichalcogenide-based photodetectors: a review. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:2097-2120. [PMID: 38204422 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr04994a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have emerged as a highly promising platform for the development of photodetectors (PDs) owing to their remarkable electronic and optoelectronic properties. Highly effective PDs can be obtained by making use of the exceptional properties of 2D materials, such as their high transparency, large charge carrier mobility, and tunable electronic structure. The photodetection mechanism in 2D TMD-based PDs is thoroughly discussed in this article, with special attention paid to the key characteristics that set them apart from PDs based on other integrated materials. This review examines how single TMDs, TMD-TMD heterostructures, TMD-graphene (Gr) hybrids, TMD-MXene composites, TMD-perovskite heterostructures, and TMD-quantum dot (QD) configurations show advanced photodetection. Additionally, a thorough analysis of the recent developments in 2D TMD-based PDs, highlighting their exceptional performance capabilities, including ultrafast photo response, ultrabroad detectivity, and ultrahigh photoresponsivity, attained through cutting-edge methods is provided. The article conclusion highlights the potential for ground-breaking discoveries in this fast developing field of research by outlining the challenges faced in the field of PDs today and providing an outlook on the prospects of 2D TMD-based PDs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anique Ahmed
- Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, Topi, 23640, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Zahir Iqbal
- Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, Topi, 23640, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
| | - Alaa Dahshan
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sikandar Aftab
- Department of Intelligent Mechatronics Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, South Korea
| | - Hosameldin Helmy Hegazy
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - El Sayed Yousef
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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Tao Y, Tang Z, Bao D, Zhao H, Gao Z, Peng M, Zhang H, Wang K, Sun X. Surface Stoichiometry Control of Colloidal Heterostructured Quantum Dots for High-Performance Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2206316. [PMID: 36642852 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202206316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Manipulating the separation and transfer behaviors of charges has long been pursued for promoting the photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen generation based on II-VI quantum dot (QDs), but remains challenging due to the lack of effective strategies. Herein, a facile strategy is reported to regulate the recombination and transfer of interfacial charges through tuning the surface stoichiometry of heterostructured QDs. Using this method, it is demonstrated that the PEC cells based on CdSe-(Sex S1- x )4 -(CdS)2 core/shell QDs with a proper Ssurface /Cdsurface ratio exhibits a remarkably improved photocurrent density (≈18.4 mA cm-2 under one sun illumination), superior to the PEC cells based on QDs with Cd-rich or excessive S-rich surface. In-depth electrochemical and spectroscopic characterizations reveal the critical role (hole traps) of surface S atoms in suppressing the recombination of photogenerated charges, and further attribute the inferior performance of excessive S-rich QDs to the impeded charge transfer from QDs to TiO2 and electrolyte. This work puts forward a simple surface engineering strategy for improving the performance of QDs PEC cells, providing an efficient method to guide the surface design of QDs for their applications in other optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Tao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Zikun Tang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Dequan Bao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles & College of Physics, University-Industry Joint Center for Ocean Observation and Broadband Communication, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Zhenqiu Gao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Mingfa Peng
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials, Changshu Institute of Technology, Changshu, Jiangsu, 215500, P. R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Kanghong Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Xuhui Sun
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Negative Carbon Technologies, Soochow University, 199 Ren-ai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, P. R. China
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Liu L, Bai B, Yang X, Du Z, Jia G. Anisotropic Heavy-Metal-Free Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications. Chem Rev 2023; 123:3625-3692. [PMID: 36946890 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Heavy-metal (Cd, Hg, and Pb)-containing semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) have been explored widely due to their unique optical and electrical properties. However, the toxicity risks of heavy metals can be a drawback of heavy-metal-containing NCs in some applications. Anisotropic heavy-metal-free semiconductor NCs are desirable replacements and can be realized following the establishment of anisotropic growth mechanisms. These anisotropic heavy-metal-free semiconductor NCs can possess lower toxicity risks, while still exhibiting unique optical and electrical properties originating from both the morphological and compositional anisotropy. As a result, they are promising light-emitting materials in use various applications. In this review, we provide an overview on the syntheses, properties, and applications of anisotropic heavy-metal-free semiconductor NCs. In the first section, we discuss hazards of heavy metals and introduce the typical heavy-metal-containing and heavy-metal-free NCs. In the next section, we discuss anisotropic growth mechanisms, including solution-liquid-solid (SLS), oriented attachment, ripening, templated-assisted growth, and others. We discuss mechanisms leading both to morphological anisotropy and to compositional anisotropy. Examples of morphological anisotropy include growth of nanorods (NRs)/nanowires (NWs), nanotubes, nanoplatelets (NPLs)/nanosheets, nanocubes, and branched structures. Examples of compositional anisotropy, including heterostructures and core/shell structures, are summarized. Third, we provide insights into the properties of anisotropic heavy-metal-free NCs including optical polarization, fast electron transfer, localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR), and so on, which originate from the NCs' anisotropic morphologies and compositions. Finally, we summarize some applications of anisotropic heavy-metal-free NCs including catalysis, solar cells, photodetectors, lighting-emitting diodes (LEDs), and biological applications. Despite the huge progress on the syntheses and applications of anisotropic heavy-metal-free NCs, some issues still exist in the novel anisotropic heavy-metal-free NCs and the corresponding energy conversion applications. Therefore, we also discuss the challenges of this field and provide possible solutions to tackle these challenges in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Liu
- Key Lab for Special Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for High-Efficiency Display and Lighting Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Nano Functional Materials and Applications, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Bing Bai
- Key Lab for Special Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for High-Efficiency Display and Lighting Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Nano Functional Materials and Applications, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Xuyong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Display and System Applications of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University, 149 Yanchang Road, Shanghai 200072, P. R. China
| | - Zuliang Du
- Key Lab for Special Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for High-Efficiency Display and Lighting Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Nano Functional Materials and Applications, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Guohua Jia
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
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Liao D, Liang G, Liu Y, Yan W, Guo Y, Liang W, Dong C, Fan L. Design an efficient photoelectrochemical aptasensor for PCB72 based on CdTe@CdS core@shell quantum dots-decorated TiO 2 nanotubes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 441:129901. [PMID: 36084454 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In this work, an efficient and novel photoelectrochemical (PEC) aptasensor for 2,3',5,5'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB72) was constructed based on CdTe@CdS core@shell quantum dots (CdTe@CdS QDs)-decorated TiO2 nanotubes (TiO2 NTs). CdTe@CdS QDs were prepared by the combination of CdTe and CdS with a proper lattice mismatch. Due to their large band offsets, core@shell QDs can reduce undesirable carrier recombination, significantly improving their charge separation efficiency. Then the synthesized CdTe@CdS QDs were modified on TiO2 NTs (CdTe@CdS QDs/TiO2 NTs) through electrostatic adsorption method. The as-prepared composites exhibit a wide visible light absorption range, good PEC activity and high photoelectric conversion efficiency. Also, the PEC aptasensor prepared via the immobilization of anti-PCB72 aptamer on the composites exhibits outstanding analytical performance with high sensitivity and specificity for PCB72 under visible-light irradiation, achieving a detection limit as low as 0.03 ng/L. It was also applied to detect PCB72 in four different real environmental samples with satisfactory results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyun Liao
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China
| | - Guifang Liang
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China
| | - Yuyao Liu
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China
| | - Wenjun Yan
- Analytical Instrumentation Center, Institute of Coal Chemistry, CAS, Taiyuan 030001, PR China
| | - Yujing Guo
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China
| | - Wenting Liang
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China
| | - Chuan Dong
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China
| | - Lifang Fan
- Institute of Environmental Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, PR China.
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Ballabio M, Cánovas E. Electron Transfer at Quantum Dot–Metal Oxide Interfaces for Solar Energy Conversion. ACS NANOSCIENCE AU 2022; 2:367-395. [PMID: 36281255 PMCID: PMC9585894 DOI: 10.1021/acsnanoscienceau.2c00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Electron transfer
at a donor–acceptor quantum dot–metal
oxide interface is a process fundamentally relevant to solar energy
conversion architectures as, e.g., sensitized solar cells and solar
fuels schemes. As kinetic competition at these technologically relevant
interfaces largely determines device performance, this Review surveys
several aspects linking electron transfer dynamics and device efficiency;
this correlation is done for systems aiming for efficiencies up to
and above the ∼33% efficiency limit set by Shockley and Queisser
for single gap devices. Furthermore, we critically comment on common
pitfalls associated with the interpretation of kinetic data obtained
from current methodologies and experimental approaches, and finally,
we highlight works that, to our judgment, have contributed to a better
understanding of the fundamentals governing electron transfer at quantum
dot–metal oxide interfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ballabio
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Cánovas
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain
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PbS1−xSex-Quantum-Dot@MWCNT/P3HT Nanocomposites with Tunable Photoelectric Conversion Performance. INORGANICS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/inorganics9120087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The photoelectric performance of quantum dots (QDs)-based nanocomposites is closely related to the optical properties of QDs, which play a critical role in the optical absorption and separation/transfer of charge carriers. Herein, we report a nanocomposite composed of light absorber PbS1−xSex quantum dots (QDs), electron-conducting multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and hole-conducting poly-3-hexylthiophene (P3HT) with tunable photoelectric conversion performance. In addition to using the quantization effect, we proposed solid-solution PbS1−xSex QDs (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) for band gap engineering. In particular, we successfully synthesized relatively small (~5.3 nm) and uniform QDs via the hot-injection method by using PbCl2, S/Se powder and environmentally friendly oleylamine (OLA) as the precursors and/or solvent. By increasing the content of Se, the band gap of PbS1−xSex QDs decreased along with the decrease in the conduction band and valence band edges. The suitable energy level alignment enabled the efficient transfer of photoinduced charge carriers, and hence a much higher photoelectric conversion performance of the PbS1−xSex-QD@MWCNT/P3HT nanocomposites than the individual QDs, P3HT, and binary PbS1−xSex-QD@MWCNT, as well as the best performance, was achieved over PbS0.75Se0.25-QD@MWCNT/P3HT.
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Hottechamps J, Noblet T, Erard M, Dreesen L. Quenched or alive quantum dots: The leading roles of ligand adsorption and photoinduced protonation. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 594:245-253. [PMID: 33765644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.02.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS The fluorescence emission of water-soluble CdTe quantum dots (QDs) capped with mercaptocarboxylic acids (MCAs) is known to be pH-dependent. However, this behaviour is quite different from a study to another, so that literature suffers from a lack of coherence. Here we assume that the QD fluorescence efficiency is actually driven by the acid-base equilibrium of MCA thiol groups, and that light-excited QDs open a non-radiative relaxation path through photoinduced protonation. EXPERIMENTS We address this issue by examining colloidal CdTe QDs with (time-resolved) fluorescence spectroscopy under various conditions of acidity and light excitation. FINDINGS It appears that the emission of QDs is quenched below a critical pH value of 6.87, and that light excitation power strengthens this quenching. We thus demonstrate the existence of an additional photochemical process and developed a mathematical modeling accounting for all our experimental results. With only three parameters, it is possible to accurately predict the fluorescence decay of QDs over time, at any pH. Further, we also related the critical pH value of 6.87 to QD surface properties, explaining why observations may differ from a study to another and making the literature much more coherent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Hottechamps
- GRASP-Biophotonics, CESAM, University of Liege, Institute of Physics, Allée du 6 août 17, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Thomas Noblet
- GRASP-Biophotonics, CESAM, University of Liege, Institute of Physics, Allée du 6 août 17, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Marie Erard
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut de Chimie Physique, UMR 8000, 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Laurent Dreesen
- GRASP-Biophotonics, CESAM, University of Liege, Institute of Physics, Allée du 6 août 17, 4000 Liège, Belgium.
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Ren S, Wang M, Wang X, Han G, Zhang Y, Zhao H, Vomiero A. Near-infrared heavy-metal-free SnSe/ZnSe quantum dots for efficient photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:3519-3527. [PMID: 33566048 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr09154e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Solar-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen production is one of the most effective strategies for solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion. Among various types of semiconductors used for PEC anodes, colloidal quantum dots (QDs) have been widely used as new and promising absorbers for PEC and other optoelectronic devices. However, currently, most efficient optoelectronic devices contain toxic Pb/Cd elements or non-earth-abundant elements (In/Ag). It is still a challenge to produce Pb/Cd-free QDs without using any toxic and non-earth-abundant elements. Here, we synthesized SnSe QDs via a diffusion-controlled hot injection approach and further stabilized the as-prepared SnSe QDs via a cation exchange reaction. The as-synthesized Zn-stabilized SnSe QDs (SnSe/ZnSe) have an orthorhombic crystal structure with indirect bandgaps ranging from 1 to 1.37 eV. Zn stabilization can significantly decrease the number of QD surface metallic Sn bonds, thereby decreasing the number of recombination centers of defects/traps. As a proof-of-concept, SnSe/ZnSe QDs are used as light absorbers for PEC hydrogen production, leading to a saturated photocurrent density of 7 mA cm-2, which is comparable to best values reported for PEC devices based on toxic-metal-free QDs. Our results indicate that Zn-stabilized SnSe QDs have great potential for use in emerging optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihuan Ren
- College of Textiles & Clothing, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China
| | - Maorong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles & College of Physics, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaohan Wang
- College of Textiles & Clothing, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China
| | - Guangting Han
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles & College of Physics, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.
| | - Yuanming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles & College of Physics, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles & College of Physics, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.
| | - Alberto Vomiero
- Division of Materials Science, Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden and Department of Molecular Sciences and Nano Systems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia Mestre, Italy.
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Spatial Dependence of the Dipolar Interaction between Quantum Dots and Organic Molecules Probed by Two-Color Sum-Frequency Generation Spectroscopy. Symmetry (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/sym13020294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the tunability of their optical properties over the UV–Visible–Near IR spectral range, ligand-capped quantum dots (QDs) are employed for the design of optical biosensors with low detection threshold. Thanks to non-linear optical spectroscopies, the absorption properties of QDs are indeed used to selectively enhance the local vibrational response of molecules located in their vicinity. Previous studies led to assume the existence of a vibroelectronic QD–molecule coupling based on dipolar interaction. However, no systematic study on the strength of this coupling has been performed to date. In order to address this issue, we use non-linear optical Two-Color Sum-Frequency Generation (2C-SFG) spectroscopy to probe thick QD layers deposited on calcium fluoride (CaF2) prisms previously functionalized by a self-assembled monolayer of phenyltriethoxysilane (PhTES) molecules. Here, 2C-SFG is performed in Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) configuration. By comparing the molecular vibrational enhancement measured for QD–ligand coupling and QD–PhTES coupling, we show that the spatial dependence of the QD–molecule interactions (∼1/r3, with r the QD–molecule distance) is in agreement with the hypothesis of a dipole–dipole interaction.
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Selopal GS, Mohammadnezhad M, Besteiro LV, Cavuslar O, Liu J, Zhang H, Navarro‐Pardo F, Liu G, Wang M, Durmusoglu EG, Acar HY, Sun S, Zhao H, Wang ZM, Rosei F. Synergistic Effect of Plasmonic Gold Nanoparticles Decorated Carbon Nanotubes in Quantum Dots/TiO 2 for Optoelectronic Devices. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2020; 7:2001864. [PMID: 33101875 PMCID: PMC7578890 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202001864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Here, a facile approach to enhance the performance of solar-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is described by means of the synergistic effects of a hybrid network of plasmonic Au nanoparticles (NPs) decorated on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The device based on TiO2-Au:CNTs hybrid network sensitized with colloidal CdSe/(CdSe x S1- x )5/(CdS)1 core/alloyed shell quantum dots (QDs) yields a saturated photocurrent density of 16.10 ± 0.10 mA cm-2 [at 1.0 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)] under 1 sun illumination (AM 1.5G, 100 mW cm-2), which is ≈26% higher than the control device. The in-depth mechanism behind this significant improvement is revealed through a combined experimental and theoretical analysis for QDs/TiO2-Au:CNTs hybrid network and demonstrates the multifaceted impact of plasmonic Au NPs and CNTs: i) hot-electron injection from Au NPs into CNTs and TiO2; ii) near-field enhancement of the QDs absorption and carrier generation/separation processes by the plasmonic Au NPs; iii) enhanced photoinjected electron transport due to the highly directional pathways offered by CNTs. These results provide fundamental insights on the properties of QDs/TiO2-Au:CNTs hybrid network, and highlights the possibility to improve the performance of other solar technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurpreet Singh Selopal
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Mahyar Mohammadnezhad
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Lucas V. Besteiro
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Ozge Cavuslar
- Department of ChemistryKoc UniversityRumelifeneri Yolu, SariyerIstanbul34450Turkey
| | - Jiabin Liu
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Hui Zhang
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Fabiola Navarro‐Pardo
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Guiju Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bio‐Fibers and Eco‐Textiles & College of PhysicsQingdao UniversityNo. 308 Ningxia RoadQingdao266071P. R. China
| | - Maorong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bio‐Fibers and Eco‐Textiles & College of PhysicsQingdao UniversityNo. 308 Ningxia RoadQingdao266071P. R. China
| | - Emek G. Durmusoglu
- Department of ChemistryKoc UniversityRumelifeneri Yolu, SariyerIstanbul34450Turkey
| | - Havva Yagci Acar
- Department of ChemistryKoc UniversityRumelifeneri Yolu, SariyerIstanbul34450Turkey
| | - Shuhui Sun
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bio‐Fibers and Eco‐Textiles & College of PhysicsQingdao UniversityNo. 308 Ningxia RoadQingdao266071P. R. China
| | - Zhiming M. Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Federico Rosei
- Centre ÉnergieMatériaux et TélécommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherché Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQuébecJ3X 1S2Canada
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Mishra AK, Rana C, Saha S. Fabrication and comparison of Heterojunction solar cells from CdS/PbS nanoparticles and CdS/PbS bulk. NANO EXPRESS 2020. [DOI: 10.1088/2632-959x/abab16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
PbS nanoparticles and CdS nanoparticles are grown by chemical methods. Also bulk PbS is grown by simple chemical methods without using any capping agent. The material formation is identified from XRD.TEM image shows the formation of different shaped PbS nanoparticles, CdS nanoparticles, and bulk PbS. Three different heterojunction solar cells are fabricated by CdS and PbS samples using a spin coating technique. Finally, gold is evaporated on PbS film. Current-voltage characteristics data for three heterojunction solar cells are taken under dark and illumination conditions. For each fabricated solar cell open-circuit voltage (VOC), short circuit current density (ISC), fill factor (FF), and power conversion efficiency(
ῃ
) are measured. Finally, a comparison of the characteristics is done for different fabricated heterojunction solar cells.
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Zhang J, Yuan X, Si M, Jiang L, Yu H. Core-shell structured cadmium sulfide nanocomposites for solar energy utilization. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2020; 282:102209. [PMID: 32721625 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2020.102209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Solar energy utilization technologies have been widely explored to solve the global energy crisis because the inexhaustible solar energy can be converted into chemical fuel and electricity. Various semiconductors that are crucial for solar energy utilization have been extensively developed. Among them, cadmium sulfide (CdS) has attracted extensive attention due to its suitable band-gap and excellent electrical/optical properties. However, CdS is still limited by rapid charge recombination, instability and low quantum efficiency. Core-shell structures can provide great opportunities for constructing advanced structures with superior properties to overcome the remaining challenges. This review focuses on the significant advances in core-shell structured CdS nanocomposites for solar energy utilization. Initially, the synthetic methods to construct core-shell structured CdS nanocomposites are reviewed. Then the applications in solar energy utilization are discussed, including photocatalytic\photoelectrochemical water splitting, photocatalytic CO2 reduction and solar cells. Finally, the perspectives of core-shell structured CdS nanocomposites for solar energy utilization are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment Biology and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Xingzhong Yuan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment Biology and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Mengying Si
- School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China
| | - Longbo Jiang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment Biology and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Hanbo Yu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment Biology and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
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Zhang S, Wang X, Chen Y, Wu G, Tang Y, Zhu L, Wang H, Jiang W, Sun L, Lin T, Shen H, Hu W, Ge J, Wang J, Meng X, Chu J. Ultrasensitive Hybrid MoS 2-ZnCdSe Quantum Dot Photodetectors with High Gain. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:23667-23672. [PMID: 31144499 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b03971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Recently, two-dimensional (2D) materials, especially transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), have attracted extensive interest owing to their potential applications in optoelectronics. Here, we demonstrate a hybrid 2D-zero-dimensional (0D) photodetector, which consists of a single-layer or few-layer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) thin film and a thin layer of core/shell zinc cadmium selenide/zinc sulfide (ZnCdSe/ZnS) colloidal quantum dots (QDs). It is worth mentioning that the photoresponsivity of the hybrid 2D-0D photodetector is 3 orders of magnitude larger than the TMDC photodetector (from 10 to 104 A W-1). The detectivity of the hybrid structure detector is up to 1012 Jones, and the gain is up to 105. Due to an effective energy transfer from the photoexcited QD sensitizing layer to MoS2 films, light absorption is enhanced and more excitons are generated. Thus, this hybrid 2D-0D photodetector takes advantage of high charge mobility in the MoS2 layer and efficient photon absorption/exciton generation in the QDs, which suggests their promising applications in the development of TMDC-based optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences , 19 Yuquan Road , Beijing 100049 , China
| | - Xudong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Yan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences , 19 Yuquan Road , Beijing 100049 , China
| | - Guangjian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Yicheng Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Liqing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Haoliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Wei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences , 19 Yuquan Road , Beijing 100049 , China
| | - Liaoxin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Tie Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Hong Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Weida Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Jun Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Jianlu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Xiangjian Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
| | - Junhao Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics , Chinese Academy of Sciences , 500 Yu Tian Road , Shanghai 200083 , China
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You Y, Tong X, Wang W, Sun J, Yu P, Ji H, Niu X, Wang ZM. Eco-Friendly Colloidal Quantum Dot-Based Luminescent Solar Concentrators. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2019; 6:1801967. [PMID: 31065522 PMCID: PMC6498128 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201801967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) have attracted significant attention as promising solar energy conversion devices for building integrated photovoltaic (PV) systems due to their simple architecture and cost-effective fabrication. Conventional LSCs are generally comprised of an optical waveguide slab with embedded emissive species and coupled PV cells. Colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) have been demonstrated as efficient emissive species for high-performance LSCs because of their outstanding optical properties including tunable absorption and emission spectra covering the ultraviolet/visible to near-infrared region, high photoluminescence quantum yield, large absorption cross sections, and considerable photostability. However, current commonly used QDs for high-performance LSCs consist of highly toxic heavy metals (i.e., cadmium and lead), which are fatal to human health and the environment. In this regard, it is highly desired that heavy metal-free and environmentally friendly QD-based LSCs are comprehensively studied. Here, notable advances and developments of LSCs based on unary, binary, and ternary eco-friendly QDs are presented. The synthetic approaches, optical properties of these eco-friendly QDs, and consequent device performance of QD-based LSCs are discussed in detail. A brief outlook pointing out the existing challenges and prospective developments of eco-friendly QD-based LSCs is provided, offering guidelines for future device optimizations and commercialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin You
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Xin Tong
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Wenhao Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Jiachen Sun
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Peng Yu
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Haining Ji
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- School of Materials and EnergyState Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Film and Integrated DevicesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Xiaobin Niu
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- School of Materials and EnergyState Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Film and Integrated DevicesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Zhiming M. Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
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Benetti D, Cui D, Zhao H, Rosei F, Vomiero A. Direct Measurement of Electronic Band Structure in Single Quantum Dots of Metal Chalcogenide Composites. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2018; 14:e1801668. [PMID: 30294898 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201801668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Metal chalcogenide quantum dots (QDs) are among the most promising materials as light harvesters in all-inorganic systems for applications in solar cells and production of solar fuels. The electronic band structure of composite QDs formed by lead and cadmium chalcogenides directly grafted on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite surfaces through successive ionic layer absorption and reaction is investigated. Atomic force microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) are applied to investigate PbS, CdS, and PbS/CdS QD systems. The variation of the surface potential of individual QDs is measured, investigating the evolution of the electronic band structure as a function of QD size and composition. A shift of the Fermi level toward more negative values occurs when QD size is increased. The shift is more pronounced in CdS than in PbS, while the composite PbS/CdS exhibits an intermediate behavior. The calculated shift is in good agreement with the experiments. These results highlight the ability of KPFM to directly measure the electronic band structure in individual QDs of metal chalcogenide composites. This feature regulates charge dynamics in composite systems, thereby affecting device performance. This work provides valuable insights for applications in several fields, in which charge injection plays a major role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Benetti
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1S2, Canada
| | - Daling Cui
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1S2, Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1S2, Canada
- The State Key Laboratory and College of Physics, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Federico Rosei
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec, J3X 1S2, Canada
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Science, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Alberto Vomiero
- Division of Materials Science, Department of Engineering Sciences and Mathematics, Luleå University of Technology, 981 87, Luleå, Sweden
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Chen EY, Milleville C, Zide JM, Doty MF, Zhang J. Upconversion of low-energy photons in semiconductor nanostructures for solar energy harvesting. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1557/mre.2018.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Tong X, Kong X, Wang C, Zhou Y, Navarro‐Pardo F, Barba D, Ma D, Sun S, Govorov AO, Zhao H, Wang ZM, Rosei F. Optoelectronic Properties in Near-Infrared Colloidal Heterostructured Pyramidal "Giant" Core/Shell Quantum Dots. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2018; 5:1800656. [PMID: 30128262 PMCID: PMC6097093 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201800656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Colloidal heterostructured quantum dots (QDs) are promising candidates for next-generation optoelectronic devices. In particular, "giant" core/shell QDs (g-QDs) can be engineered to exhibit outstanding optical properties and high chemical/photostability for the fabrication of high-performance optoelectronic devices. Here, the synthesis of heterostructured CuInSe x S2-x (CISeS)/CdSeS/CdS g-QDs with pyramidal shape by using a facile two-step method is reported. The CdSeS/CdS shell is demonstrated to have a pure zinc blend phase other than typical wurtzite phase. The as-obtained heterostructured g-QDs exhibit near-infrared photoluminescence (PL) emission (≈830 nm) and very long PL lifetime (in the microsecond range). The pyramidal g-QDs exhibit a quasi-type II band structure with spatial separation of electron-hole wave function, suggesting an efficient exciton extraction and transport, which is consistent with theoretical calculations. These heterostructured g-QDs are used as light harvesters to fabricate a photoelectrochemical cell, exhibiting a saturated photocurrent density as high as ≈5.5 mA cm-2 and good stability under 1 sun illumination (AM 1.5 G, 100 mW cm-2). These results are an important step toward using heterostructured pyramidal g-QDs for prospective applications in solar technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Tong
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Xiang‐Tian Kong
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Department of Physics and AstronomyOhio UniversityAthensOH45701USA
| | - Chao Wang
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Yufeng Zhou
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Fabiola Navarro‐Pardo
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - David Barba
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Dongling Ma
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | - Shuhui Sun
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
| | | | - Haiguang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory and College of PhysicsQingdao UniversityQingdao266071P. R. China
| | - Zhiming M. Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
| | - Federico Rosei
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier SciencesUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengdu610054P. R. China
- Institut National de la Recherche ScientifiqueCentre Énergie Matériaux et Télécommunications1650 Boul. Lionel BouletVarennesQCJ3X 1S2Canada
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Navarro-Pardo F, Zhao H, Wang ZM, Rosei F. Structure/Property Relations in "Giant" Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Opportunities in Photonics and Electronics. Acc Chem Res 2018; 51:609-618. [PMID: 29260851 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.7b00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Semiconductor nanocrystals exhibit size-tunable absorption and emission ranging from the ultraviolet (UV) to the near-infrared (NIR) spectral range, high absorption coefficient, and high photoluminescence quantum yield. Effective surface passivation of these so-called quantum dots (QDs) may be achieved by growing a shell of another semiconductor material. The resulting core/shell QDs can be considered as a model system to study and optimize structure/property relations. A special case consists in growing thick shells (1.5 up to few tens of nanometers) to produce "giant" QDs (g-QDs). Tailoring the chemical composition and structure of CdSe/CdS and PbS/CdS g-QDs is a promising approach to widen the spectral separation of absorption and emission spectra (i.e., the Stokes shift), improve the isolation of photogenerated carriers from surface defects and enhance charge carrier lifetime and mobility. However, most stable systems are limited by a thick CdS shell, which strongly absorbs radiation below 500 nm, covering the UV and part of the visible range. Modification of the interfacial region between the core and shell of g-QDs or tuning their doping with narrow band gap semiconductors are effective approaches to circumvent this challenge. In addition, the synthesis of g-QDs composed of environmentally friendly elements (e.g., CuInSe2/CuInS2) represents an alternative to extend their absorption into the NIR range. Additionally, the band gap and band alignment of g-QDs can be engineered by proper selection of the constituents according to their band edge positions and by tuning their stoichiometry during wet chemical synthesis. In most cases, the quasi-type II localization regime of electrons and holes is achieved. In this type of g-QDs, electrons can leak into the shell region, while the holes remain confined within the core region. This electron-hole spatial distribution is advantageous for optoelectronic devices, resulting in efficient electron-hole separation while maintaining good stability. This Account provides an overview of emerging engineering strategies that can be adopted to optimize structure/property relations in colloidal g-QDs for efficient photon management or charge separation/transfer. In particular, we focus on our recent contributions to this rapidly expanding field of research. We summarize the design and synthesis of a variety of colloidal g-QDs with the aim of tuning the optical properties, such as absorption/emission in a wide region of the solar spectrum, which allows enlargement of their Stokes shift. We also describe the band alignment within these systems, charge carrier dynamics, and charge transfer from g-QDs into semiconducting oxides. We show how these tailored g-QDs may be used as active components in luminescent solar concentrators, photoelectrochemical cells for hydrogen generation, QD-sensitized solar cells and optical nanothermometers. In each case, we aim at providing insights on structure/property relationships and on how to optimize them toward improving device performance. Finally, we describe perspectives for future work, sketching new directions and opportunities in this field of research at the intersection between chemistry, physics, materials science and engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Navarro-Pardo
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P.R. China
- Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec J3X 1S2, Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- College of Physics and The Cultivation Base for State Key Laboratory, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, P.R. China
| | - Zhiming M. Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P.R. China
| | - Federico Rosei
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P.R. China
- Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Québec J3X 1S2, Canada
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Zhou Y, Zhao H, Ma D, Rosei F. Harnessing the properties of colloidal quantum dots in luminescent solar concentrators. Chem Soc Rev 2018; 47:5866-5890. [DOI: 10.1039/c7cs00701a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes the recent progress, challenges and perspectives of luminescent solar concentrators based on colloidal quantum dots via harnessing their properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Zhou
- Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications Research Centre
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique
- Varennes
- Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- College of Physics & The Cultivation Base for State Key Laboratory
- Qingdao University
- P. R. China
| | - Dongling Ma
- Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications Research Centre
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique
- Varennes
- Canada
| | - Federico Rosei
- Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications Research Centre
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique
- Varennes
- Canada
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences
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22
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Zhang H, Selopal GS, Zhou Y, Tong X, Benetti D, Jin L, Navarro-Pardo F, Wang Z, Sun S, Zhao H, Rosei F. Controlled synthesis of near-infrared quantum dots for optoelectronic devices. NANOSCALE 2017; 9:16843-16851. [PMID: 29072746 DOI: 10.1039/c7nr04950a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We designed a facile approach for the synthesis of PbS quantum dots (QDs) using thiourea and lead acetate as sources of sulfur and lead, respectively. The sizes of the PbS QDs could be systematically controlled by simply adjusting the reaction parameters. Cd post-treatment via a cation exchange method was performed to increase the stability of QDs. As a proof of concept, colloidal PbS QDs synthesized by using air-stable thiourea were employed as light harvesters for both (i) solar driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen generation and (ii) QDs sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). For PEC hydrogen generation, similar saturated photocurrent densities are observed by using thiourea compared to bis(trimethylsilyl) sulfide, which is air-sensitive and unstable. For QDSSCs, the devices fabricated with QDs synthesized from thiourea reveal a better performance compared to devices fabricated with QDs synthesized from traditional bis(trimethylsilyl) sulfide. Our work demonstrates that this synthetic method is a promising alternative to the existing methodologies of PbS QDs and holds great potential for future solar technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet Varennes, Quebec J3X 1S2, Canada.
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23
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Zhao H, Jin L, Zhou Y, Bandar A, Fan Z, Govorov AO, Mi Z, Sun S, Rosei F, Vomiero A. Green synthesis of near infrared core/shell quantum dots for photocatalytic hydrogen production. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 27:495405. [PMID: 27834311 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/27/49/495405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Quantum dots (QDs) are attractive systems for potential applications in future solar energy technologies, due to their optical properties which are tunable as a function of size and composition. In this study, we synthesized PbS QDs with first excitonic peak in the range 1060 to 1300 nm using a PbCl2/sulfur molar ratio of 10:1. The first excitonic absorption peak from 1300 to 950 nm of the PbS/CdS core/shell QDs can be further synthesized via the cation exchange approach. Our method resulted in high quantum yield, good stability, monodisperse QD solutions with a full surface coverage by excess Cd cations. In addition, we used our core/shell QDs in a photoelectrochemical cell for hydrogen generation. This heterostructure exhibited a saturated photocurrent as high as 3.3 mA cm-2, leading to ∼29 ml cm-2 d-1 hydrogen generation, indicating the strong potential of our core/shell QDs for applications in water splitting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiguang Zhao
- Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boul. Lionel-Boulet, Varennes (QC) J3X 1S2, Canada
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25
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Affiliation(s)
- Simanta Kundu
- Department
of Materials Science, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Amitava Patra
- Department
of Materials Science, Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700032, India
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26
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Yan C, Zhao H, Perepichka DF, Rosei F. Lanthanide Ion Doped Upconverting Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Structure and Properties. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2016; 12:3888-3907. [PMID: 27345736 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201601565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Lanthanide doped upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) have emerged as a new class of luminescent materials, with major discoveries and overall significant progress during the last decade. Unlike multiphoton absorption in organic dyes or semiconductor quantum dots, lanthanide doped UCNPs involve real intermediate quantum states and convert infrared (IR) into visible light via sequential electronic excitation. The relatively high efficiency of this process even at low radiation flux makes UCNPs particularly attractive for many current and emerging areas of technology. The aim of this article is to highlight several recent advances in this rapidly growing field, emphasizing the relationships between structure and properties of UCNPs. Additionally, various strategies developed for the synthesis of UCNPs with a focus on the various synthetic approaches that yield high-quality monodisperse samples with controlled size, shape and crystalline phase are reviewed. Emerging synthetic approaches towards designed structure to improve the optical and electronic properties of UCNPs are discussed. Finally, recent examples of applications of UCNPs in biomedical and optoelectronics research, giving our own perspectives on future directions and emerging possibilities of the field are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglin Yan
- Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, J3×1S2, Varennes, QC, Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, J3×1S2, Varennes, QC, Canada
| | - Dmitrii F Perepichka
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, H3A 0B8, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Center for Self-Assembled Chemical Structures, McGill University, H3A 0B8, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Federico Rosei
- Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, 1650 Boul. Lionel Boulet, J3×1S2, Varennes, QC, Canada
- Center for Self-Assembled Chemical Structures, McGill University, H3A 0B8, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Institute for Fundamental and Frontier Science, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, PR China
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Jin L, AlOtaibi B, Benetti D, Li S, Zhao H, Mi Z, Vomiero A, Rosei F. Near-Infrared Colloidal Quantum Dots for Efficient and Durable Photoelectrochemical Solar-Driven Hydrogen Production. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2016; 3:1500345. [PMID: 27668151 PMCID: PMC5021169 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201500345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
A new hybrid photoelectrochemical photoanode is developed to generate H2 from water. The anode is composed of a TiO2 mesoporous frame functionalized by colloidal core@shell quantum dots (QDs) followed by CdS and ZnS capping layers. Saturated photocurrent density as high as 11.2 mA cm-2 in a solar-cell-driven photoelectrochemical system using near-infrared QDs is obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jin
- Centre for Energy Materials and Telecommunications Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique 1650 Boul. Lionel-Boulet Varennes QC J3X 1S2 Canada
| | - Bandar AlOtaibi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering McGill University 3480 Univ. Str. W Montreal QC H3A 0E9 Canada
| | - Daniele Benetti
- Centre for Energy Materials and Telecommunications Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique 1650 Boul. Lionel-Boulet Varennes QC J3X 1S2 Canada
| | - Shun Li
- Centre for Energy Materials and Telecommunications Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique 1650 Boul. Lionel-Boulet Varennes QC J3X 1S2 Canada
| | - Haiguang Zhao
- Centre for EnergyMaterials and TelecommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherche Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel-BouletVarennesQC J3X 1S2Canada; CNR INO SENSOR LabVia Branze 4525123BresciaItaly
| | - Zetian Mi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering McGill University 3480 Univ. Str. W Montreal QC H3A 0E9 Canada
| | - Alberto Vomiero
- Centre for EnergyMaterials and TelecommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherche Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel-BouletVarennesQC J3X 1S2Canada; CNR INO SENSOR LabVia Branze 4525123BresciaItaly; Department of Engineering Sciences and MathematicsLuleå University of Technology971 98LuleåSweden
| | - Federico Rosei
- Centre for EnergyMaterials and TelecommunicationsInstitut National de la Recherche Scientifique1650 Boul. Lionel-BouletVarennesQC J3X 1S2Canada; CSACSMcGill University801 Sherbrooke Str. W.MontrealQCH3A 0B8Canada
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28
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Concina I, Manzoni C, Grancini G, Celikin M, Soudi A, Rosei F, Zavelani-Rossi M, Cerullo G, Vomiero A. Modulating Exciton Dynamics in Composite Nanocrystals for Excitonic Solar Cells. J Phys Chem Lett 2015; 6:2489-2495. [PMID: 26266724 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.5b00765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Quantum dots (QDs) represent one of the most promising materials for third-generation solar cells due to their potential to boost the photoconversion efficiency beyond the Shockley-Queisser limit. Composite nanocrystals can challenge the current scenario by combining broad spectral response and tailored energy levels to favor charge extraction and reduce energy and charge recombination. We synthesized PbS/CdS QDs with different compositions at the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles assembled in a mesoporous film. The ultrafast photoinduced dynamics and the charge injection processes were investigated by pump-probe spectroscopy. We demonstrated good injection of photogenerated electrons from QDs to TiO2 in the PbS/CdS blend and used the QDs to fabricate solar cells. The fine-tuning of chemical composition and size of lead and cadmium chalcogenide QDs led to highly efficient PV devices (3% maximum photoconversion efficiency). This combined study paves the way to the full exploitation of QDs in next-generation photovoltaic (PV) devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Concina
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Cristian Manzoni
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Giulia Grancini
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Mert Celikin
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Afsoon Soudi
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Federico Rosei
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Margherita Zavelani-Rossi
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Giulio Cerullo
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Alberto Vomiero
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell'Informazione, Università di Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia, Italy
- Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@Polimi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Giovanni Pascoli 70/3, 20133, Milan, Italy
- INRS Centre for Energy, Materials and Telecommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel Boulet, J3X 1S2 Varennes, Quebec, Canada
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Politecnico di Milano, Istituto di Fotonica e Nanotecnologie (IFN)-CNR, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
- SENSOR Lab, Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, CNR, Via Branze 45, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Luleå University of Technology, 971 98 Luleå, Sweden
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Carey GH, Abdelhady AL, Ning Z, Thon SM, Bakr OM, Sargent EH. Colloidal Quantum Dot Solar Cells. Chem Rev 2015; 115:12732-63. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 844] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Graham H. Carey
- Department
of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, 10 King’s College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G4, Canada
| | - Ahmed L. Abdelhady
- Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, Solar & Photovoltaics Engineering Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zhijun Ning
- School
of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 100 Haike
Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Susanna M. Thon
- Department
of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Osman M. Bakr
- Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, Solar & Photovoltaics Engineering Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Edward H. Sargent
- Department
of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, 10 King’s College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G4, Canada
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30
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Gonfa BA, Kim MR, Delegan N, Tavares AC, Izquierdo R, Wu N, El Khakani MA, Ma D. Towards high efficiency air-processed near-infrared responsive photovoltaics: bulk heterojunction solar cells based on PbS/CdS core-shell quantum dots and TiO2 nanorod arrays. NANOSCALE 2015; 7:10039-10049. [PMID: 25975363 DOI: 10.1039/c5nr02371h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Near infrared (NIR) PbS quantum dots (QDs) have attracted significant research interest in solar cell applications as they offer several advantages, such as tunable band gaps, capability of absorbing NIR photons, low cost solution processability and high potential for multiple exciton generation. Nonetheless, reports on solar cells based on NIR PbS/CdS core-shell QDs, which are in general more stable and better passivated than PbS QDs and thus more promising for solar cell applications, remain very rare. Herein we report high efficiency bulk heterojunction QD solar cells involving hydrothermally grown TiO2 nanorod arrays and PbS/CdS core-shell QDs processed in air (except for a device thermal annealing step) with a photoresponse extended to wavelengths >1200 nm and with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) as high as 4.43%. This efficiency was achieved by introducing a thin, sputter-deposited, uniform TiO2 seed layer to improve the interface between the TiO2 nanorod arrays and the front electrode, by optimizing TiO2 nanorod length and by conducting QD annealing treatment to enhance charge carrier transport. It was found that the effect of the seed layer became more obvious when the TiO2 nanorods were longer. Although photocurrent did not change much, both open circuit voltage and fill factor clearly changed with TiO2 nanorod length. This was mainly attributed to the variation of charge transport and recombination processes, as evidenced by series and shunt resistance studies. The optimal PCE was obtained at the nanorod length of ∼450 nm. Annealing is shown to further increase the PCE by ∼18%, because of the improvement of charge carrier transport in the devices as evidenced by considerably increased photocurrent. Our results clearly demonstrate the potential of the PbS/CdS core-shell QDs for the achievement of high PCE, solution processable and NIR responsive QD solar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belete Atomsa Gonfa
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Centre-Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications, 1650 Boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, QC, Canada J3X 1S2.
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Concina I, Vomiero A. Metal oxide semiconductors for dye- and quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2015; 11:1744-1774. [PMID: 25523717 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201402334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This Review provides a brief summary of the most recent research developments in the synthesis and application of nanostructured metal oxide semiconductors for dye sensitized and quantum dot sensitized solar cells. In these devices, the wide bandgap semiconducting oxide acts as the photoanode, which provides the scaffold for light harvesters (either dye molecules or quantum dots) and electron collection. For this reason, proper tailoring of the optical and electronic properties of the photoanode can significantly boost the functionalities of the operating device. Optimization of the functional properties relies with modulation of the shape and structure of the photoanode, as well as on application of different materials (TiO2, ZnO, SnO2) and/or composite systems, which allow fine tuning of electronic band structure. This aspect is critical because it determines exciton and charge dynamics in the photoelectrochemical system and is strictly connected to the photoconversion efficiency of the solar cell. The different strategies for increasing light harvesting and charge collection, inhibiting charge losses due to recombination phenomena, are reviewed thoroughly, highlighting the benefits of proper photoanode preparation, and its crucial role in the development of high efficiency dye sensitized and quantum dot sensitized solar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Concina
- CNR-INO SENSOR Lab, Via Branze 45, 25123, Brescia, Italy; University of Brescia, Via Valotti 9, 25133, Brescia, Italy
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32
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Liu X, Liu N, Liu M, Tao Z, Kuang W, Ji X, Chen J, Lei W, Dai Q, Li C, Li X, Nathan A. Graphene nanomesh photodetector with effective charge tunnelling from quantum dots. NANOSCALE 2015; 7:4242-4249. [PMID: 25673220 DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06883a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Graphene nanomesh (GNM)-based optoelectronics integrated with quantum dots (QDs) are investigated in this article. The charge transfer mechanism in the QDs/GNM interface is probed in four terminal gated FET-type photodetectors. The insulating ligand is used to make the GNM/ligand/QDs vertically behave like a metal/insulate/semiconductor (MIS) structure to facilitate the charge tunnelling. With the current constraint effect of the GNM and the effective charge tunnelling, a high-performance photodetector is fabricated with higher responsivity, higher on/off ratio and shorter response time. The results of our analysis and experimental approach can be extended to future graphene-based photodetectors, as long as suitable ligands and an effective architecture are chosen for this type of device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Liu
- Electronic Science and Engineering School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
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33
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Liu X, Ji X, Liu M, Liu N, Tao Z, Dai Q, Wei L, Li C, Zhang X, Wang B. High-performance Ge quantum dot decorated graphene/zinc-oxide heterostructure infrared photodetector. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2015; 7:2452-2458. [PMID: 25561422 DOI: 10.1021/am5072173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A novel size-controllable germanium quantum dot (Ge QD) is synthesized and decorated onto reduced graphene oxide (RGO) fragments to overcome the low infrared (IR) photoresponses (∼0.1 A/W)13,14 of pristine graphene. With the integration of flexible substrate, monolayer graphene (MLG) electrode and n-type zinc oxide (ZnO), a high-performance QD-decorated-RGO/ZnO heterostructure infrared photodetector is reported in this study. The Ge QD-decorated-RGO hybrid photosensitive composite improves the responsivity (∼9.7 A/W, 1400 nm) in IR waveband without sacrificing the response speed (∼40 μs rise time and 90 μs recovery time). In addition, the effective barrier formed between graphene and ZnO interface restricts the dark current (∼1.4 nA, -3 V) to guarantee the relatively excellent rectifying behavior and high on/off ratio (∼10(3)) for this IR photodetector. With these superior inherent properties and micron-sized sensing active area, this photodetector manifests great potential in the future application of graphene-based IR photodetector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Liu
- Electronic Science and Engineering School, Southeast University , Nanjing 210096, China
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Xiong Z, Wang X, Yan D, Wu W, Peng L, Li W, Zhao Y, Wang X, An X, Xiao T, Zhan Z, Wang Z, Chen X. Room-temperature resonant quantum tunneling transport of macroscopic systems. NANOSCALE 2014; 6:13876-13881. [PMID: 25307500 DOI: 10.1039/c4nr04056b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A self-assembled quantum dots array (QDA) is a low dimensional electron system applied to various quantum devices. This QDA, if embedded in a single crystal matrix, could be advantageous for quantum information science and technology. However, the quantum tunneling effect has been difficult to observe around room temperature thus far, because it occurs in a microcosmic and low temperature condition. Herein, we show a designed a quasi-periodic Ni QDA embedded in a single crystal BaTiO3 matrix and demonstrate novel quantum resonant tunneling transport properties around room-temperature according to theoretical calculation and experiments. The quantum tunneling process could be effectively modulated by changing the Ni QDA concentration. The major reason was that an applied weak electric field (∼10(2) V cm(-1)) could be enhanced by three orders of magnitude (∼10(5) V cm(-1)) between the Ni QDA because of the higher permittivity of BaTiO3 and the 'hot spots' of the Ni QDA. Compared with the pure BaTiO3 films, the samples with embedded Ni QDA displayed a stepped conductivity and temperature (σ-T curves) construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Xiong
- Science and Technology on Plasma Physics Laboratory, Research Center of Laser Fusion, China Academy of Engineering Physics, P.O. Box 919-987-7, Mianyang 621900, China.
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