Synthesis Of Metal Organic Framework (MOF) Thin Films On Zinc Oxide Nanowires For Solar Energy Conversion

We have investigated the fabrication of the first photovoltaic device that consists of IRMOF-1 and IRMOF-8 thin films.  The films were grown on zinc oxide nanowires that have been deposited on a transparent conducting oxide coated glass substrate.  MOFs are hybrid structures consisting of metal centers linked by organic ligands.  They behave similarly to a quantum dot connected by fine-tuned photosensitizing antennae, thus enabling an efficient ligand to metal charge transfer within the covalent network.  The nanowire-MOF thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, while photoconversion efficiency was monitored with a picoammeter.  The goal is a renewable energy device that can be fabricated by an inexpensive and facile method.  Further optimization will increase performance and allow scaling up for reducing carbon dioxide emissions and diminishing our dependence on fossil fuels.