Synthesis and characterization of PVA/YBCO nanocomposite for improvement of solar energy conversion

Abstract

The development of nano-metal oxide materials with unique optoelectronic properties such as highly solar energy absorption and generation of dense amount of electrons is one of the hottest topics now days. The incorporation of these nanomaterials into polymers results in an improvement of the properties of these polymers. Therefore, the understanding of their electronic properties is an essential demand to introduce these nanocomposites into service life. In this work, Yttrium barium copper oxide (YBCO) nanopowders with a uniform particle size of around 11 nm was prepared, sintered, and blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) by casting technique. The characteristics of the structure and morphology of PVA/YBCO nanocomposite films are studied using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The influence of YBCO nanoparticles on the thermal stability of PVA showed that the YBCO enhanced the thermal stability and reduced the rate of thermal degradation of PVA nanocomposites. Current-voltage behavior of PVA/YBCO nanocomposite films was measured at different temperatures. An explanation for the charge carrier concentration in the conduction band with the calculation of the barrier height, activation energy, and conversion and their dependence on temperature and applied field is presented. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers.