Deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) on colloidal-synthesized nanocrystal solids

ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2013 Apr 24;5(8):2915-9. doi: 10.1021/am400326t. Epub 2013 Apr 3.

Abstract

We demonstrate current-based, deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) on semiconductor nanocrystal solids to obtain quantitative information on deep-lying trap states, which play an important role in the electronic transport properties of these novel solids and impact optoelectronic device performance. Here, we apply this purely electrical measurement to an ethanedithiol-treated, PbS nanocrystal solid and find a deep trap with an activation energy of 0.40 eV and a density of NT = 1.7 × 10(17) cm(-3). We use these findings to draw and interpret band structure models to gain insight into charge transport in PbS nanocrystal solids and the operation of PbS nanocrystal-based solar cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't