Colloidal PbS and PbSeS Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells Prepared by Electrophoretic Deposition

Abstract

Here we report the development of quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) using colloidal PbS and PbSeS quantum dots (QDs) and polysulfide electrolyte for high photocurrents. QDSCs have been prepared in a novel sensitizing way employing electrophoretic deposition (EPD) and protecting the colloidal QDs from corrosive electrolyte with a CdS coating. EPD allows a rapid, uniform, and effective sensitization with QDs, while the CdS coating stabilizes the electrode. The effect of electrophoretic deposition time and of colloidal QD size on cell efficiency is analyzed. Efficiencies as high as 2.1 ± 0.2% are reported.