AZO Nanoparticles-Decorated CNTs for UV Light Sensing: A Structural, Chemical, and Electro-Optical Investigation

Nanocomposites formed by aluminum-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (AZO–NP) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNT) are proposed here as a promising material for UV light sensing applications, with the great advantage of operating in air, at room temperature, and at low voltage. Nanocomposite layers were prepared with different AZO:CNT weight ratios by a simple methodology at room temperature. They were characterized by means of UV–Vis spectroscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopies (SEM and TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The interaction between the two nanomaterials was demonstrated by comparing the properties of the nanocomposite with the ones shown by the AZO–NPs. Dense AZO–CNT nanocomposite layers were deposited between two metal electrodes on a SiO(2)/Si substrate, and the electrical properties were investigated in dark condition and under UV light irradiation. The electrical response to the UV light was a sudden current increase that reduced when the light was switched off. Several UV on/off cycles were performed, showing good repeatability and stability of the response. The mechanisms involved in the electrical response are discussed and compared to the ones previously reported for ZnO–CNT nanocomposites.