Fabrication of bulk hetero-junction solar cell and photocatalytic wastewater treatment using Sn4+-doped copper ferrite nanoparticles

Abstract

In this study, the chemical synthesis of copper ferrite (CuFe₂O₄) and Sn-doped CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticles is investigated for photovoltaic and wastewater cleaning applications. The structural and optical analysis shows that, up to a dosage of 5%, there is a decrease in crystallite size and bandgap with a rise in tin doping. Sn ions also significantly contribute to the overall resistance and impedance, as demonstrated by impedance studies. Additionally, the generated nanoparticles’ photo activity is predicted in degrade Acid Orange (AO) and Acid Red (AR) dye stuffs, and it is combined with P3HT and PCBM mix, respectively, to create bulk hetero-junction (BHJ) solar cells. Compared to all synthesized materials, the BHJ solar cell with 5% Sn-doped CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticles had a better power conversion efficiency. Dye degradation efficiency is also better for 5% Sn-doped CuFe₂O_4. Greater light absorbance, lower electron–hole recombination, and low surface resistance are the primary reasons for the notable efficiency of photocatalysts and solar cells with 5% Sn:CuFe₂O₄ material.