Morphological, optical and electrical study of PS/Si-ncs heterostructures with an unusual photovoltaic effect

This paper reports interesting effects on the heterostructures as a function of morphology and electrical properties. The porous silicon layers were synthesized by electrochemical anodization. Different etching times were used to study the properties. Silicon nanocrystals were obtained from the porous silicon by scratching and casting in methanol. The heterostructures were obtained by depositing the nanocrystals on the porous silicon by spin coating. SEM showed the thickness of the porous silicon and the pore size. TEM images showed the size and shape of the nanocrystals. AFM images also showed the nanocrystals. Structural characterization showed the formation of silicon nanocrystals and some silicon oxides. Luminescence spectra showed interesting peaks in different regions of the visible spectrum. Finally, the electrical characterization revealed different behaviors such as ohmic and rectifying an unusual photovoltaic effect. Moreover, the transport mechanism was analyzed and found in the Space Charge Limit Current.

Morphological, optical and electrical study of PS/Si-ncs heterostructures with an unusual photovoltaic effect Articles