Lupan O., Chow L.
University of Central Florida, US
Keywords: nano/mesoporous, nanorods, sensors, solar cells, ZnO
Synthesis of nanorod based solar cells and sensors are quickly directed towards developing alternative, lightweight, flexible nanodevices for wide area of commercial applications. Many research papers has been published, in recent years, in the area of dye sensitized solar cells in particular, which is currently the most stable and efficient excitonic solar cell for large-scale solar energy conversion. We present novel developed aqueous-solution synthesis techniques to obtain uniform dimensional high-tech ZnO nanorod arrays with good crystalline on transparent glass and conducting substrates, nanowires and of the mesoporous films. Aqueous-solution synthesis technique was preferred for some reasons related to economical and ecological advantages, low-temperature and the flexibility to tailor the properties by doping and impurity distribution in the end product – nanorods and mesoporous films. Scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray electron diffraction were performed for material characterization. The relatively high sensitivity and stability of sensors made from ZnO nano-rods and nano/mesoporous films demonstrate the potential for developing a new class of sensitive sensors for industry and can have useful nanotechnological applications.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 4, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 4
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 457 - 460
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topics: Advanced Manufacturing, Nanoelectronics
ISBN: 1-4200-6376-6