Sequential electro-deposition of Bi₂S₃/CdS films as co-sensitizer photoanodes for liquid junction solar cell

In this investigation multilayered conjugate films are formulated with Bi₂S₃ and CdS nanoparticles (NPs) on FTO glass substrate. Thin layer Bi₂S₃ was deposited and subsequently covered with various levels of CdS coating. Optical properties and XRD analysis of the films show existence of both the compound phases. The morphology of the films studied through electron microscopy reveals coverage of spherical CdS NPs on the network of Bi₂S₃ NPs. The electrochemical impedance records and performances output characteristics of the n-type films show that the most efficient co-sensitizer matrix is produced with deep coating of CdS on thin layer of Bi₂S₃. - Highlights: • Multilayered Bi₂S₃/CdS conjugate films are formulated on FTO glass substrate. • Photo-degradation of Bi₂S₃ is restricted by the coating of CdS layer. • High level of Cd coating on thin layer of Bi₂S₃ have shown appreciable photocurrent output. • Photo-conversion efficiency of 0.93% is observed for the best conjugate film.