Development of a highly efficient 1D/0D TiO2 nanotube/n-CdTe photoanode: single-step attachment, coverage, and size control by a solvothermal approach

Abstract

The creation of an n–n heterojunction between TiO₂ nanotubes (T_NT) and CdTe nanocrystals (which mostly exist as p-type) is crucial for realizing the benefits of efficient directional charge transport in a photoanode of 1D/0D architecture. The presented one-pot solvothermal approach leverages a temperature control to achieve a linker-free spatial distribution of CdTe on T_NT in a non-coordinating solvent resulting in highly efficient optical and photoelectrochemical responses. Quantum confinement, broad spectral absorbance, and multiple excitonic generations – areas that are critical to transforming solar energy utilization, will benefit from the presented strategy.