The development of efficient p-type semiconductors is critical for advancing dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) technologies, particularly for improving the photocathode performance. Among potential candidates, delafossite-type oxides such as CuGaO2 have shown promising properties, including wide band gaps, high hole mobility, and favorable dye adsorption characteristics. However, the synthesis of phase-pure, nanoscale CuGaO2 remains a major challenge, especially through low-temperature routes compatible with device fabrication requirements. This work presents a microwave-assisted hydro-solvothermal method for the controlled synthesis of CuGaO2 nanoparticles. The influence of three critical parameters (coprecipitation pH, reducing agent quantity, and reaction time) on the phase purity and particle size was systematically investigated. The microwave-assisted approach enables rapid and uniform heating, promoting controlled nucleation and growth, while reducing the overall reaction time. Structural and morphological characterization confirmed the formation of nanoplate CuGaO2 with high phase purity under optimized conditions, eliminating the need for harsh post-synthesis treatments. This method provides a scalable and efficient route for producing high-quality CuGaO2 particles, offering a promising platform for integration in next-generation photovoltaic devices, as demonstrated by preliminary p-DSSCs investigations using P1 dye loading.
Stembauer et al. (Thu,) studied this question.