ZnO nanostructures assisted growth using different NH_{4F concentrations for photovoltaic applications

In this study, different morphologies of ZnO nanostructures (NSs) were synthesised by adding ammonium fluoride (NH4F) at different concentrations using the hydrothermal method for the exploration of photovoltaic applications. Morphology varies from well-aligned hexagonal nanorods (NRs) to nanoflakes (NFLs) and nanoflowers (NFs) are observed and revealed by field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM). X-ray diffraction spectrum (XRD) analysis confirmed good crystal quality of ZnO nanostructures (NSs) along (002). Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) analysis confirmed strong reflection suppression in the ultraviolet-near infrared (UV-NIR) range, giving a high green signal for solar cell applications. Finally, photoluminescence (PL) emission has shown both strong near band edge (NBE) and deep level emission (DLE) peaks indicating a promising signal for different applications such as for photosensors and photocatalytic activity. Lastly, a fast and sensitive photodetector (PD) based on 0F and 3F samples was fabricated with promising performance.