Chapter 8 - Catalytic and noncatalytic growth of ZnO nanostructures on different substrates, and Sb-doped ZnO nanostructures on Au-catalyzed Si(100): Components for potential utilization in three-dimensional dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract

This study investigates the growth of antimony-doped ZnO nanostructures on Au-catalyzed Si(100) and undoped ZnO nanostructures (nanocolumns, nanowires, nanotubes) on the surfaces of different substrates, including fused silica, sapphire, Si(100), and thin wire electrodes to facilitate the transport of photogenerated electrons, reduce recombination rates, and improve power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of hybrid metal oxide/polymer solar cells. The novel proposed cylindrical design makes use of existing capillary technology to allow for light propagation through the waveguide versus light exposure normal to a planar surface. In addition, the design may help enhance PCE values by the ability to utilize photons from all directions upon sunlight illumination. Thin capillary (tubular) structure could be properly sealed through only two ends versus planar designs, which would significantly improve retention of liquid electrolyte. Anchoring of the nano metal oxide layers was attained by vapor phase transport synthesis under controlled temperature, pressure, and carrier gas flow. Morphology, structure, composition, and photoelectronic characterization of cell components was performed using scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and room-temperature photoluminescence.