Issue 7, 2013

Quantum dot nanoscale heterostructures for solar energy conversion

Abstract

Quantum dot nanoscale semiconductor heterostructures (QDHs) are a class of materials potentially useful for integration into solar energy conversion devices. However, realizing the potential of these heterostructured systems requires the ability to identify and synthesize heterostructures with suitably designed materials, controlled size and morphology of each component, and structural control over their shared interface. In this review, we will present the case for the utility and advantages of chemically synthesized QDHs for solar energy conversion, beginning with an overview of various methods of heterostructured material synthesis and a survey of heretofore reported materials systems. The fundamental charge transfer properties of the resulting materials combinations and their basic design principles will be outlined. Finally, we will discuss representative solar photovoltaic and photoelectrochemical devices employing QDHs (including quantum dot sensitized solar cells, or QDSSCs) and examine how QDH synthesis and design impacts their performance.

Graphical abstract: Quantum dot nanoscale heterostructures for solar energy conversion

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
10 Sep 2012
First published
11 Dec 2012

Chem. Soc. Rev., 2013,42, 2963-2985

Quantum dot nanoscale heterostructures for solar energy conversion

R. S. Selinsky, Q. Ding, M. S. Faber, J. C. Wright and S. Jin, Chem. Soc. Rev., 2013, 42, 2963 DOI: 10.1039/C2CS35374A

To request permission to reproduce material from this article, please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

If you are an author contributing to an RSC publication, you do not need to request permission provided correct acknowledgement is given.

If you are the author of this article, you do not need to request permission to reproduce figures and diagrams provided correct acknowledgement is given. If you want to reproduce the whole article in a third-party publication (excluding your thesis/dissertation for which permission is not required) please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

Read more about how to correctly acknowledge RSC content.

Social activity

Spotlight

Advertisements