One-step electro-codeposition for developing new hybrid semiconductors

Thin films of new hybrid organic–inorganic semiconductors, exhibiting a noticeable photoconductive behavior, have been developed by a new one-step method. The films result by the combination of a CdSe semiconductor with an appropriate slightly water soluble fullerene salt. The layers were produced using a cathodic electro-codeposition technique from an electrolytic bath containing both the convenient inorganic and organic chemical species. By XRD and SEM–EDAX techniques the development of a new hybrid semiconductive system was confirmed. The photoelectric behavior of the new materials obtained was studied by a photoelectrochemical cell (PEC). A clear amelioration of the semiconducting characteristics of the hybrid products in comparison to that of the pure inorganic semiconductor was observed. The electro-codeposition technique permits development of a variety of new hybrid materials with interesting semiconducting characteristics, either selecting the appropriate inorganic and organic ingredients or controlling the imposed electrolysis parameters.

► An electrochemical method is developed to obtain in one step hybrid semiconductors.
► CdSe is electro-codeposited with a slightly water soluble fullerene salt.
► Clear improvement of the semiconductive behavior of the hybrid systems is observed.
► Selecting reagents or electrolysis conditions, various products can be achieved.