Quantum dot-single wall carbon nanotube complexes for polymeric solar cells

The enhancement of polymeric solar cells through the addition of nanostructured material complexes has been investigated. These novel materials are intended to facilitate exciton dissociation and carrier transport through the polymer matrix. The dispersion of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) into poly(3-octylthiophene)-(P3OT) has been shown to dramatically improve both the electrical conductivity and optical absorption of the polymer compared to the pure polymer. The photoresponse of solar cells using P3OT doped with SWNTs is significantly improved over the undoped version under simulated AM0 illumination. In addition, CdSe quantum dots (QDs) have been used by several groups to facilitate exciton dissociation and improve the efficiency of P3OT-based solar cells. Through the synthesis of QD-SWNT complexes we have attempted to produce a nanostructured additive for polymeric solar cells which exhibits both a high electron affinity and high electrical conductivity. The synthesis of CulnS₂-SWNT complexes and an assessment of their viability as an additive in polymeric solar cells is presented.