Layer-by-Layer self-assembly technique was used to synthesize nano [Al((NO2)(2)-8HQ)(3)] thin films from aluminum nitrate, Al(NO3)(3)center dot 9H(2)O and 8-hydroxy-5,7-dinitroquinoline [(NO2)(2)-8HQ] solutions. Stoichiometry and structure were confirmed by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectra. Scanning electron microscopy showed a particle size in the range of 16-33 nm. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the thermal stability of the synthesized nano complex. The UV-vis absorption spectrum for [Al((NO2)(2)-8HQ)(3)] film showed a peak at 358 nm and a shoulder around 433 nm, mainly due to the electronic pi -> pi* transition from the highest occupied molecular orbital to the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital. Analysis of the spectral behavior revealed a direct allowed transition with band gap of 2.42 eV. The electrical parameters of [Al((NO2)(2)-8HQ)(3)]/p-Si device were investigated using forward and reverse bias current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage measurements in dark at room temperature. Dark I-V characteristics showed a rectification effect due to junction barrier of [Al((NO2)(2)-8HQ)(3)]/p-Si heterojunction. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.