Preparation and Characterization of Hydroquinone Aggregate-TiO<SUB>2</SUB> Composite Produced by Copper(II) Catalyzed Reaction, a Promising Material for Application in Solar Cell

Abstract

Preparation and characterization of Hydroquinone aggregate-TiO₂ composite material through a copper (II) catalyzed reaction have been presented with discussion on the probable scope of utility of such materials in the fields like electronic, optoelectronic, LED, Plastic laser as well as for solar cell application. Methodology reported in literature for preparation of hydroquinone aggregate was used with minor modification. The products are soluble in organic solvents like ethanol indicating well inclusion of TiO₂ particles within the matrix of hydroquinone aggregate. Characterization of the composite materials is performed using spectroscopic techniques such as IR spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy which supports the formation of the composite material. Thermal stability of the products was ascertained by using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Product shows appreciable thermal stability. Since hydroquinone aggregate has already been reported as promising to have thermoelectric switching behavior therefore the composite material is likely to have potential utility in the fields like electronics, opto-electronics as well as for solar cell application.