Abstract
Carbon quantum dots (QDs) sensitized ZnO thin films, prepared by a simple route utilizing sol gel spin coating and hydrothermal method have been investigated for photoelectrochemical (PEC) splitting of water. Time of sensitization has been optimized with respect to PEC response. A significant enhancement in photocurrent density and photon to hydrogen conversion efficiency has been witnessed for CQDs sensitized ZnO thin films. PEC results have been analysed with the help of various structural, optical and electrical characterizations, like XRD, TEM, absorption spectra, Photo current density and Mott schottky plot etc. Based on the data a diagram has been proposed for band edge alignment of Carbon QDs with ZnO, which also supports the enhancement in the PEC response.