Improving the refractive index by engineering PbS/PVA nano polymer composite for optoelectronic applications

Abstract

High refractive index polymer nanocomposites are of major interest since they are potential candidates in solar cell applications and optoelectronics. Lead sulfide (PbS) nanoparticles were synthesized using a straightforward chemical route. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films with different concentrations of doped PbS nanoparticles (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 6%, and 10%) have been prepared by casting technique. The structural properties of PbS nanoparticles and filled PVA films were investigated using XRD, the optical and FTIR analyses were performed for the prepared films. This paper verifies that the optical parameters, including the refractive index, of the PVA polymer, are enhanced by loading PbS nanoparticles in its matrix, The optical bandgap was extensively decreased from 3.08 eV for the blank PVA film to 1.97 eV for 10% PbS/PVA. The 3% dopant sample reveals the optimum refractive index value which, making it a candidate for many future applications.