Photoconductivity of gold nanoparticles loaded boron nitride/nickel oxide nanocomposites

Abstract Two-dimensional materials are promising candidates for future electronics. Photoelectrical properties of BN, BN80/NiO20, BN60/NiO40 composites and NiO have been investigated. Light intensity dependency of electrical conductivity is illustrated. The effect of gold nanoparticles loading on photo-conductivities has been elaborated. Results showed that loading of gold nanoparticles enhanced the photoconductivity of nanocomposite up to 1500 times. The higher photo-conductivities of gold nanoparticles loaded films may be ascribed to quantum tunnelling of electrons generated due to localized surface plasmon resonance of gold nanoparticles. This study provided the insightful information related to light intensity dependent photoconductivity of boron nitride-based composites.