Polyaniline/MWCNTS-CuS NPs Thin Films for Infrared Detection

Abstract

In this research study, polyaniline/MWCNTs-CuS NPs hybrid composite-based thin films have been deposited onto an FTO glass substrate for infrared (IR) detection. These hybrids were prepared through in-situ route by the oxidative polymerization of aniline monomer with MWCNTs and CuS NPs hybrids incorporated, these hybrids were synthesized through both in-situ and ex-situ routes. The ex-situ composites were further extended to a few compositions as the characterization results were better in relative comparison. These techniques were Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman analysis, and UV-Vis Spectroscopy which helped to successfully find out the synthesis of prepared samples. The performance of the device that was fabricated after the individual layer testing was by making a closed cell assembly with gold sputtered FTO glass and 0.5M H2SO4 as an electrolyte in between the layers. The IV characterization and photocurrent study conducted by using an 850nm infrared source showed a difference in current values upon illumination. Polyaniline MWCNTs-CuS NPs also known as PCC (1:4) composition showed the best results in terms of both I-V and photocurrent, the responsivity of this device was 3.68 mA/W.