Synthesis and Design of Carbon Quantum Dots/CdS/ZnS Photoanode ThinFilm Solar Cells with CoNi-C Counter Electrode for Eco-Friendly and Economically Viable Photovoltaics

Abstract
This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and fabrication of carbon quantum dots (CQDs)/CdS/ZnS photoanode thin-film solar cells using a CoNi-C counter electrode for
environmentally friendly and cost-effective photovoltaic applications. CQDs were prepared via hydrothermal synthesis, while CdS and ZnS layers were deposited using the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method. The CoNi-C counter electrode exhibited moderate visible-light absorption (1.49–1.80 a.u.) and favorable electrical properties, including low
resistivity (3.201 × 10⁻² Ω·cm), high conductivity (3.124 × 10¹ S/cm), and a Hall coefficient of 1.906 cm³/C. The assembled FTO/d-TiO₂/m-TiO₂/CQD/CdS/ZnS/CoNi-C solar cell achieved an
open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.345 V, a short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 16.20 µA, and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 0.85%. These results demonstrate the potential of CQDs and CoNiC as sustainable alternatives for cost-effective solar energy technologies with positive implications for green energy and economic development

DOWNLOAD