Pn-Junction Rectifiers Based on p-ZnO and n-ZnO Nanoparticles

Abstract

We form pn-junctions by electrostatic binding of a p-type and an n-type ZnO nanoparticle. Current−voltage characteristics of pn-junctions are rectifying in nature. Individual components of the junction do not show any rectification. An np-junction, formed by reversing the binding sequence of the two types of nanoparticles, shows rectification in the reverse bias direction. By controlling the type of dopants in the ZnO nanoparticles, pn+ (and n+p) and nn+ (and n+n) junctions are formed that exhibit rectification. Current rectification in a junction between two nanoparticles shows that a depletion layer may have formed even in the quantum dot regime.