Photoelectrochemical cell for solar energy conversion using electrocodeposited CdSe films

Photoelectrochemical cells (PEC) using cadmium selenide films deposited on stainless steel and titanium substrates are studied. The CdSe films are obtained by electrocodeposition of Cd2+ and Se2+ ions on the substrates by self-sustained electrolysis of an aqueous solution containing these ions. The electrolytic deposition parameters are optimised. For titanium substrates, SeO2 concentration ≈ 5 mg/50 ml gives best CdSe film PEC. The electrolysis temperature and current density have negligible effect. For stainless steel, SeO2 concentration ≈ 5 to 10 mg/50 ml and electrolysis temperature range 32 to 40 °C is best. In this case also, the electrolysis current density has negligible effect.