Tuning ZnO with Al and B doping for efficient solar cell windows

Abstract

This study investigates the structural properties of ZnO, ZnO:Al, ZnO:B, and ZnO:Al:B nanoparticles synthesized via the sol-gel method for potential application as window layers in solar cells. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis reveals the crystalline structure, phase composition, crystallite size, and lattice parameters of the synthesized materials. Doping with aluminum (Al) and boron (B) induces significant changes in the lattice parameters, crystallinity, and crystallite size. The XRD patterns demonstrate a hexagonal wurtzite structure for all samples, with shifts in peak positions and broadening indicating lattice distortions and defects. The findings provide valuable insights into the effects of Al and B doping on the structural properties of ZnO nanoparticles, contributing to the optimization of ZnO-based materials for photovoltaic applications.