Quantum Dot Sensitized Photoelectrodes 英文参考文献.docVIP

Nanomaterials 2011, 1, 79-88; doi:10.3390/nano1010079 OPEN ACCESS nanomaterials ISSN 2079-4991 /journal/nanomaterials Review Quantum Dot Sensitized Photoelectrodes Thomas J. Macdonald and Thomas Nann * Ian Wark Research Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia; E-Mail: tom.macdonald@.au * Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: thomas.nann@.au; Tel.: +61-8-8302-5369; Fax: +61-8-8302-3683. Received: 18 October 2011 / Accepted: 26 October 2011 / Published: 15 November 2011 Abstract: Quantum Dots (QDs) are promising alternatives to organic dyes as sensitisers for photocatalytic electrodes. This review article provides an overview of the current state of the art in this area. More specifically, different types of QDs with a special focus on heavy-metal free QDs and the methods for preparation and adsorption onto metal oxide electrodes (especially titania and zinc oxide) are discussed. Eventually, the key areas of necessary improvements are identified and assessed. Keywords: Quantum dots; dye-sensitized photoelectrodes; photocatalysis; solar energy conversion; titania; zinc oxide 1. Introduction Dye sensitized photoelectrodes (e.g., electrodes coated with a photocatalyst) form the basis of many exciting applications such as solar powered energy conversion (artificial photosynthesis) [1,2] self-cleaning glass [3], sterilisation [4], and others. In these applications, a dye is excited by incident light and the resulting exciton is then split at the dye/photocatalyst interface by “injection” of one charge carrier into the photocatalyst. Thus, the life-time of the charge carriers is increased and the photocatalyst is activated. The most common embodiment of this principle involves an oxide photocatalyst (for example titania (TiO2) or zinc oxide (ZnO)), which is sensitized by an organic or inorganic dye. A crucial component o