Efficient anchoring of nanostructured cadmium selenide on different kinds of carbon nanotubes.

We report a method for the efficient anchoring of cadmium selenide (CdSe) nanoparticles on the surface of different types of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (purified, N-doped, O-doped and exfoliated). Characterization using different types of electron microscopies (SEM, STEM, and TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and x-ray diffraction showed well anchored CdSe nanoparticles (NP) on the nanotube surfaces, NP shapes and sizes varied with temperature and other synthesis conditions, and formed with good yields. The method here reported does not require previous activation of the carbon nanotube surface by chemical functionalization, nor the use of organic solvents, and the reaction proceeded in aqueous solutions, making this process simpler and more environmentally friendly than others.

Re-evaluating the role of phosphinic acid (DINHOP) adsorption at the photoanode surface in the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells.

Dineohexyl phosphinic acid (DINHOP) is a popular amphiphilic molecular insulator considered as the most efficient co-adsorbent (co-grafter) for the improvement of the photovoltaic performance of TiO based hybrid solar cells. Although the effect of its incorporation on the improvement of cell performance has been well demonstrated, the mechanisms through which it affects the photovoltaic and electrodynamic parameters of the cells are not yet clear. Here we re-examine the mechanism through which the DINHOP co-adsorbent affects the photovoltaic and electrodynamic parameters of dye-sensitized solar cells.