Quantum size effect on the layer by layer assembly of PbTe–InSe multilayer nanocomposite structures

PbTe–InSe multilayer nanocomposite structures were prepared by thermal evaporation method using layer by layer assembly with different PbTe nanocrystal (NCs) layer thicknesses ranges from 5 to 20 nm. Cross sectional transmission electron microscopy images divulge the formation of PbTe NCs embedded within InSe matrix as an ordered PbTe–InSe multilayer structure. X-ray and electron beam diffractions from the multilayer structure exhibit eminent peak at (2 0 0) plane analogous to face-centred cubic PbTe. The absorption onset significantly blue shifted as long as 3 nm PbTe NCs were embedded in InSe matrix. The observed band gap is correlated with theoretically predicted effective band gap of three dimensionally confined PbTe NCs which confirm size dependent quantum confinement effect. PL spectra show dominant single emission at 1.6 eV corresponding to the band edge emission of PbTe NCs. The prospects to use this structure in p-i-n junction quantum dot solar cells are discussed. - Graphical abstract: A graphical abstract to illustrate (a) schematic view of the PbTe–InSe multilayer structure. (b) and (c) are the cross sectional TEM and AFM image of the single layer PbTe NCs on InSe matrix, respectively. - Highlights: • PbTe Nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous InSe matrix by thermal evaporation. • Array of 3D confined PbTe NCs was obtained from layer by layer deposition. • Growth of isolated PbTe NCs were observed from TEM and AFM. • Blue shift from absorption spectra and quantum confined PL emission were observed. • Use of this structure in next generation solar cells were discussed