Synthesis and characterization of CdSexTe1−x sensitized TiO2 solar cell with enhanced photovoltaic properties

Water-soluble CdSexTe1−x alloyed quantum dots (AQDs) sensitized TiO2 electrodes and their performances in semiconductor-sensitized solar cell were investigated. We found that the photovoltaic performance was affected by the alloying degree of AQDs. Compared to pure CdSe and CdTe QDs, CdSexTe1−x AQDs showed better photovoltaic property. Maximum short circuit photocurrent density (1.448 mA/cm2) and open circuit voltage (0.46 V) were obtained when Se/Te molar ratio of AQDs was 0.4/0.6. Maximum power conversion efficiency (0.588%) was obtained by TiO2 nano-tubes (NTs) electrode. We attribute this to enhanced photo-absorbing efficiency and photo-induced charges separation of the AQDs, which were proved by the UV–vis absorption and fluorescence lifetime data.

► Water-soluble CdSexTe1−x alloyed quantum dots (AQDs) were applied for sensitizing TiO2 electrode.
► CdSexTe1−x AQDs showed better photovoltaic property than pure CdSe and CdTe QDs.
► Enhanced photovoltaic property of the AQDs was confirmed by UV–vis and fluorescence.
► TiO2 nano-tube was used to facilitate electron transfer processes in solar cell.