Preparation of Cu-doped ZnO nanoparticles via layered double hydroxide and application for dye-sensitized solar cells

It has been reported that doping ZnO with metal ions can alter the band gap and immensely enhance electron transport. In this regard, to increase the efficiency of cost-effective dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), we synthesized Cu-doped ZnO nanocomposites from layered double hydroxide (LDH) precursors via a facile method. LDH layers were homogeneously doped with Cu ions, and mixed metal oxides (MMOs) were obtained after annealing. The morphology and optical and electrochemical properties of the as-synthesized Cu-doped ZnO nanocomposites were systematically studied. The introduction of Cu ions increases the specific surface area of ZnO and increases light absorption in the visible region. The Cu-doped ZnO MMOs were used as the photoanode of DSSCs, and the effect of the amount of the Cu dopant on the performance of the solar cells was studied. At the optimal doping weight percentage of Cu (0.25 wt%), the solar cell based on Cu-doped ZnO MMO and D149 dye achieved the highest short-circuit current of 7.12 mA cm−2 and the highest power conversion efficiency of 1.50%. [Display omitted] •Cu-doped ZnO was prepared via a layered double hydroxide precursor.•Cu-doped ZnO was used as the photoanode of dye-sensitized solar cells.•Cu-doped ZnO has increased absorption in the UV–vis region.•Cu-doped ZnO decreases the resistance of solar cells.•The cell with ZnO/0.25 wt% Cu had the highest short-circuit current and power conversion efficiency.