Optoelectronic properties of p-i-n heterojunctions based on germanium nanocrystals.

We investigated the possibility of using physical vapour deposited Ge nanocrystals (NCs) in optoelectronic devices such as solar cells. We have prepared p-i-n heterojunctions based on p+-doped Si substrate/undoped Ge NCs/ZnO:Al layer stacks and their optoelectronic properties were characterised. Under light, the generation of photo-carriers from the Ge NCs themselves was demonstrated. The photovoltaic behaviour of the p-i-n structure was also highlighted, with a measured Voc of 224 mV compared to 580 mV in theory. The discrepancy between theory and experiment was discussed on the basis of TEM observations, optical and carrier generation measurements as well as modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]