Optical and Structural Investigation of CdSe Quantum Dots Dispersed in PVA Matrix and Photovoltaic Applications

CdSe quantum dots (QDs) dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix with their sizes within the quantum dot regime have been synthesized via a simple heat induced thermolysis technique. The effect of the concentrations of the cadmium source on the optical properties of CdSe/PVA thin films was investigated through UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The structural analysis and particle size determination as well as morphological studies of the CdSe/ PVA nanocomposite thin films were done with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD analysis reveals that CdSe/ PVA nanocomposite thin film has a hexagonal (wurtzite) structure. A prototype thin film solar cell of CdSe/CdTe has been synthesized and its photovoltaic parameters were measured.