Synthesis of CuInSe2 quantum dots for photovoltaic applications

• Main Author: Wang, Xiang.
• Other Authors: School of Materials Science and Engineering
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2010
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/38629
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This project focuses on the Copper Indium Diselenide (CIS) quantum dots for photovoltaic applications. In the report, importance of utilization of solar energy is firstly mentioned, followed by literature review on relevant knowledge, such as quantum dot, solar cell, properties and different synthesis methods of CIS nanoparticles. Then by using the method of microemulsion, CIS samples with different millipore water amount are synthesized. The materials and equipments used are listed down, followed with the detailed experiment procedure. Stoichiometry, morphology, crystal grain size and photon absorption status of the samples are analysed separately with EDS, TEM, XRD and UV-vis absorption Spectroscopy techniques. The results of the characterization techniques are satisfied, with the atom ratio of Cu:In:Se roughly around 1:1:2, and sample nano-grain size between 5 nm to 15 nm. Furthermore, the conclusion that crystal grain size increases with the increase of water surfactant ratio is validated. Light absorption graph also shows a blue shift with the decrease of quantum dot size.