Colloidal quantum dots based solar cells

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) have been widely studied as the absorbers for various solar technologies for their excellent optoelectronic properties, such as the size-dependent absorption spectrum, efficient charge separation and transport, and good photostability. During the last decade, major research initiatives have been pursued to elucidate the structure-dominated optoelectronic properties to maximize overall solar-device power-conversion efficiency (PCE). In this chapter, the chemical synthesis methods and the properties of bare and core-shell CQDs are presented, and their applications in solar cells are emphasized. Recent advances in this rapidly growing field are described, by focusing on various strategies developed for the synthesis of CQDs with different structure and composition, as well as the available approaches to enhance the PCE of CQD solar cells. Finally, the challenges for the controlling synthesis of CQDs and issues to further improve photovoltaic performance are addressed.