Sonochemical Synthesis of CdS Nanoparticles Doped with Nickel for Solar Cell Application

This study investigates the synthesis of pure and nickel (Ni)-doped cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs) using an ultrasonic wave irradiation (sonochemical) technique with varying Ni doping concentrations (0.05 %, 0.1 %, and 0.15 %). This process results in the formation of agglomerated nanoparticles with precise structural characteristics. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis reveals particle sizes ranging from 16 to 31 nm that are consistent with nanoscale measurements. XRD and particle size analysis indicate an average particle size of less than 32 nm. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis confirms the successful incorporation of nickel ions. Additionally, the optical properties, such as absorption, were measured, and the energy band gap of the prepared samples increased from 2.78 eV for pure CdS to 2.81 eV, 2.82 eV, and 2.89 eV for 0.05 % Ni: CdS, 0.10 % Ni: CdS, and 0.15 % Ni: CdS, respectively. Key electrical parameters, such as electrical conductivity, mobility, and carrier concentration, as identified by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, were also enhanced. The efficiency of the fabricated cells with CdS and Ni: CdS were 2.188 %, 2.225 %, 2.288 %, and 2.349 %, respectively, for 0 %, 0.05 %, 0.10 % and 0.15 % Ni doping concentrations. The impact of nickel ions on the photovoltaic performance of CdS NPs was then investigated.