Incorporating FeS2 into Photovoltaic Devices

Iron pyrite (FeS₂) nanocrystals show promise as a non-toxic, earth abundant semiconducting material for photovoltaic applications. Synthetic conditions were optimized to improve product yield as well as particle size and monodispersity. Optical measurements and TEM were used for nanoparticle characterization. Photovoltaic device design, fabrication, and characterization were explored for novel bilayer and bulk heterojunction (BHJ) designs as part of a comparative study involving Cu₂S, ZnO, and PbS. Photoinduced absorption (PIA) spectroscopy was conducted to screen for charge-transfer in BHJ blends, and related to device performance. Current results have confirmed successful synthesis of FeS₂ nanocrystals, while device design and performance are still under investigation.