1
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Kasaye BB, Shura MW, Dibaba ST. Review of recent progress in the development of electrolytes for Cd/Pb-based quantum dot-sensitized solar cells: performance and stability. RSC Adv 2024; 14:16255-16268. [PMID: 38769954 PMCID: PMC11103669 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra01030b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) represent an exciting advancement in third-generation photovoltaic solar cells owing to their ability to generate multiple electron-hole pairs per photon, high stability under light and moisture exposure, and flexibility in size and composition tuning. Although these cells have achieved power conversion efficiencies exceeding 15%, there remains a challenge in enhancing both their efficiency and stability for practical large-scale applications. Therefore, in this review, we aimed to investigate recent progress in improving the long-term stability, analyzing the impact of advanced quantum dot properties on charge-transport optimization, and assessing the role of interface engineering in reducing recombination losses to maximize QDSSC performance and stability. Additionally, this review delves into key elements such as the electrolyte composition, ionic conductivity, and compatibility with counter electrodes and photoanodes to understand their influence on power conversion efficiencies and stability. Finally, potential directions for advancing QDSC development in future are discussed to provide insights into the obstacles and opportunities for achieving high-efficiency QDSSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayisa Batu Kasaye
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Adama Science and Technology University Adama Oromia Ethiopia
| | - Megersa Wodajo Shura
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Adama Science and Technology University Adama Oromia Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Tiruneh Dibaba
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Adama Science and Technology University Adama Oromia Ethiopia
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2
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Tetyana P, Mphuthi N, Jijana AN, Moloto N, Shumbula PM, Skepu A, Vilakazi LS, Sikhwivhilu L. Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrochemical Evaluation of Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles and Their Application for Non-Enzymatic Glucose Detection in Blood Samples. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:481. [PMID: 36770442 PMCID: PMC9919628 DOI: 10.3390/nano13030481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Glutathione-capped copper sulfide (CuxSy) nanoparticles with two different average sizes were successfully achieved by using a simple reduction process that involves only changing the reaction temperature. Temperature-induced changes in the size of CuxSy nanoparticles resulted in particles with different optical, morphological, and electrochemical properties. The dependence of electrochemical sensing properties on the sizes of CuxSy nanoparticles was studied by using voltammetric and amperometric techniques. The spherical CuxSy nanoparticles with the average particle size of 25 ± 0.6 nm were found to be highly conductive as compared to CuxSy nanoparticles with the average particle size of 4.5 ± 0.2 nm. The spherical CuxSy nanoparticles exhibited a low bandgap energy (Eg) of 1.87 eV, resulting in superior electrochemical properties and improved electron transfer during glucose detection. The sensor showed a very good electrocatalytic activity toward glucose molecules in the presence of interference species such as uric acid (UA), ascorbic acid (AA), fructose, sodium chloride, and sucrose. These species are often present in low concentrations in the blood. The sensor demonstrated an excellent dynamic linear range between 0.2 to 16 mM, detection limit of 0.2 mM, and sensitivity of 0.013 mA/mM. The applicability of the developed sensor for real field determination of glucose was demonstrated by use of spiked blood samples, which confirmed that the developed sensor had great potential for real analysis of blood glucose levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phumlani Tetyana
- DSI/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Advanced Materials Division, Mintek, Private Bag X3015, Randburg 2125, South Africa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Witwatersrand, Private Bag X3, Braamfontein 2050, South Africa
| | - Ntsoaki Mphuthi
- DSI/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Advanced Materials Division, Mintek, Private Bag X3015, Randburg 2125, South Africa
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa
| | - Abongile Nwabisa Jijana
- DSI/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Advanced Materials Division, Mintek, Private Bag X3015, Randburg 2125, South Africa
| | - Nosipho Moloto
- Department of Chemistry, University of Witwatersrand, Private Bag X3, Braamfontein 2050, South Africa
| | - Poslet Morgan Shumbula
- Department of Chemistry, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
| | - Amanda Skepu
- Next Generation Health, Division 1, CSIR, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Lea Sibulelo Vilakazi
- DSI/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Advanced Materials Division, Mintek, Private Bag X3015, Randburg 2125, South Africa
| | - Lucky Sikhwivhilu
- DSI/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Advanced Materials Division, Mintek, Private Bag X3015, Randburg 2125, South Africa
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
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3
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Chen M, Yin F, Du Z, Sun Z, Zou X, Bao X, Pan Z, Tang J. MOF-derived Cu xS double-faced-decorated carbon nanosheets as high-performance and stable counter electrodes for quantum dots solar cells. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 628:22-30. [PMID: 35908428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.07.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The development of highly-catalytic counter electrode (CE) materials is vital to the construction of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) but is still challenging. Here, a novel self-assembly double-faced decorated carbon nanosheets with MOF-derived CuxS nanospheres (DF-CuxS/C NSs) were prepared as high-performance hybrid CEs for improving the catalytic activity towards polysulfide electrolytes and enhancing the performance of QDSCs. It is shown that the MOF-derived CuxS nanospheres disperse well on the surface of the carbon NSs in the obtained DF-CuxS/C NSs hybrids. Electrochemical characterization demonstrated that the DF-CuxS/C NSs with moderate mass ratio exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of the polysulfide redox couple (Sn2-/S2-) and decreased charge transfer resistance at the interface of the CE/electrolyte. Benefitting from the merits of this novel hybrid CE, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the CdSeTe QDs-based QDSCs is increased to 9.39%, which is higher than the pristine carrageenan (CA)-derived CEs (5.84%) and Cu-BTC-derived CEs (7.74%). With the further optimization of the substrate, the highest PCE of 11.36% was achieved based on the Ti mesh substrate supported hybrid CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Chen
- Institute of Hybrid Materials, National Center of International Joint Research for Hybrid Materials Technology, National Base of International Science & Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Feifei Yin
- Institute of Hybrid Materials, National Center of International Joint Research for Hybrid Materials Technology, National Base of International Science & Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Zhonglin Du
- Institute of Hybrid Materials, National Center of International Joint Research for Hybrid Materials Technology, National Base of International Science & Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Zhe Sun
- Institute of Hybrid Materials, National Center of International Joint Research for Hybrid Materials Technology, National Base of International Science & Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xie Zou
- Institute of Hybrid Materials, National Center of International Joint Research for Hybrid Materials Technology, National Base of International Science & Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xiaoli Bao
- School of Perfume and Aroma Technology, Shanghai Institute of Technology, Shanghai 201418, China
| | - Zhenxiao Pan
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Jianguo Tang
- Institute of Hybrid Materials, National Center of International Joint Research for Hybrid Materials Technology, National Base of International Science & Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, China.
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4
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Li W, Zhang S, Peng B, Chen Q, Zhong Q. Structurally optimized intrinsic defect carbon driven polysulfide reduction reaction for quantum dot sensitized solar cells. Catal Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2cy00890d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This work uses double reagents (H3BO3 and H3PO3) to adjust the intrinsic defects and surface groups of carbon to balance conductivity and active sites, which effectively improves the polysulfide reduction activity of the counter electrode for QDSSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhua Li
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, People's Republic of China
| | - Shule Zhang
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Peng
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqiao Chen
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Zhong
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210094, People's Republic of China
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5
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Zhang T, Zhang Q, Wang Y, Li F, Xu L. Constructing high-performance H 3PW 12O 40/CoS 2 counter electrodes for quantum dot sensitized solar cells by reducing the surface work function of CoS 2. Dalton Trans 2021; 50:12879-12887. [PMID: 34581370 DOI: 10.1039/d1dt01871j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A low cost H3PW12O40 (PW12)/CoS2 complex is prepared and used as a counter electrode (CE) to combine with sandwich quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) composed of a TiO2/CdS/CdSe/ZnS photoanode and polysulfide electrolyte to study their photovoltaic properties via a simple hydrothermal method. Under standard simulated sunlight, the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 2%PW12 (PW12-2/CoS2) doped CEs was 6.29%, which was significantly 67.7% higher than those of QDSSCs based on undoped CoS2 CEs (3.75%). Due to the introduction of PW12, the nanoparticles forming the hollow structure of CoS2 changed from regular octahedra to rough nanoparticles, which increase the active sites. At the same time, the work function of CoS2 decorated with PW12 is decreased. This study and discovery demonstrate that POMs can be used to optimize CE materials and improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency of QDSSCs, which provide an experimental and theoretical basis for subsequent investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalates Science of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, P. R. China
| | - Qiu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalates Science of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, P. R. China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalates Science of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, P. R. China
| | - Fengyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalates Science of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, P. R. China
| | - Lin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalates Science of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, P. R. China
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6
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Jin BB, Huang HS, Kong SY, Zhang GQ, Yang B, Jiang CX, Zhou Y, Wang DJ, Zeng JH. Antimony tin oxide/lead selenide composite as efficient counter electrode material for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 598:492-499. [PMID: 33951547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.04.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Antimony tin oxide (ATO)/lead selenide (PbSe) composite was rationally designed and fabricated on fluorine doped tin oxide glass (FTO) for using as counter electrode (CE) of quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). The electrocatalytic activity of the CE is deeply investigated in the polysulfide electrolyte by employing the Tafel, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) of the symmetrical cells. The results confirm that the ATO/PbSe CE has better electrocatalytic activity and stability than that of PbSe CE obtained by pulse voltage electrodeposition (PVD). The enhanced electrocatalytic performance of ATO/PbSe CE can be attributed to its high specific surface area, excellent permeability, conductivity and interface connectivity, which provide more electrocatalytic active sites for the reduction of polysulfide species, as well as fast channels for ions diffusion and electron transport. As a result, the CdS QDSSCs and CdS/CdSe co-sensitized QDSSCs assembled by the ATO/PbSe CE exhibits better power conversion efficiency (η) of 1.72% and 5.59%, respectively than that of PbSe CE obtained by PVD. Furthermore, photovoltaic property of the ATO/PbSe CE in CdS/CdSe co-sensitized QDSSCs keeps stable for over 200 min. This present work provides a simple and effective strategy for the construction of high-performance CE materials of QDSSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Bin Jin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China.
| | - Hui Sheng Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China
| | - Shu Ying Kong
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China
| | - Guo Qing Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China
| | - Biao Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China
| | - Chu Xing Jiang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China
| | - Ya Zhou
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Inorganic Special Functional Materials, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China
| | - Dan Jun Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Reaction Engineering, Yan'an University, Yan'an 716000, China.
| | - Jing Hui Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Science of Shaanxi Province, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China.
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7
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Song H, Lin Y, Zhang Z, Rao H, Wang W, Fang Y, Pan Z, Zhong X. Improving the Efficiency of Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells beyond 15% via Secondary Deposition. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:4790-4800. [PMID: 33734670 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c01214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Low loading is one of the bottlenecks limiting the performance of quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). Although previous QD secondary deposition relying on electrostatic interaction can improve QD loading, due to the introduction of new recombination centers, it is not capable of enhancing the photovoltage and fill factor. Herein, without the introduction of new recombination centers, a convenient QD secondary deposition approach is developed by creating new adsorption sites via the formation of a metal oxyhydroxide layer around QD presensitized photoanodes. MgCl2 solution treated Zn-Cu-In-S-Se (ZCISSe) QD sensitized TiO2 film electrodes have been chosen as a model device to investigate this secondary deposition approach. The experimental results demonstrate that additional 38% of the QDs are immobilized on the photoanode as a single layer. Due to the increased QD loading and concomitant enhanced light-harvesting capacity and reduced charge recombination, not only photocurrent but also photovoltage and fill factor have been remarkably enhanced. The average PCE of resulted ZCISSe QDSCs is boosted to 15.31% (Jsc = 26.52 mA cm-2, Voc = 0.802 V, FF = 0.720), from the original 13.54% (Jsc = 24.23 mA cm-2, Voc = 0.789 V, FF = 0.708). Furthermore, a new certified PCE record of 15.20% has been obtained for liquid-junction QDSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Song
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Lin
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengyan Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Huashang Rao
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenran Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueping Fang
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenxiao Pan
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinhua Zhong
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, People's Republic of China
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8
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Muthalif MPA, Choe Y. Surface modification of CuS counter electrodes by hydrohalic acid treatment for improving interfacial charge transfer in quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 595:15-24. [PMID: 33813220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.03.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
High charge transfer resistance and low electrocatalytic activity of counter electrodes (CEs) are mainly responsible for the poor photovoltaic performance of quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs). Herein, a novel strategy has been successfully introduced for the first time to improve the electrocatalytic activity and charge transfer properties of a copper sulfide (CuS) CE by modifying it with the addition of hydrohalic acids (HHA). Through the suitable surface modification of HHA-incorporated CuS CE, the charge transfer from the external circuit to the CE surface was effectively facilitated. The electrochemical analyses suggest that charge transfer resistance is sufficiently reduced at the CE/electrolyte interface by using the HHA-treated CuS CEs. This improvement is mainly attributed to the high electrocatalytic activity of the modified CEs for the reduction of the polysulfide redox couple electrolyte in QDSSCs. The device constructed with TiO2/CdS/CdSe/ZnS photoanodes and the hydrogen-fluoride-treated CuS (HFCuS) CE exhibits a power conversion efficiency of 4.25%, which is considerably higher than that of the device with the bare CuS CE (3.11%). These findings can facilitate the fabrication of highly efficient CEs for next-generation solar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Panthakkal Abdul Muthalif
- Department of Polymer Science and Chemical Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Jangjeong-Dong, Busan 46241, South Korea
| | - Youngson Choe
- Department of Polymer Science and Chemical Engineering, Pusan National University, Geumjeong-gu, Jangjeong-Dong, Busan 46241, South Korea.
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9
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Devadiga D, Selvakumar M, Shetty P, Mahesha MG, Devadiga D, Ahipa TN, Kumar SS. Novel photosensitizer for dye-sensitized solar cell based on ionic liquid–doped blend polymer electrolyte. J Solid State Electrochem 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10008-021-04920-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe existing energy situation demands not only the huge energy in a short time but also clean energy. In this regard, an integrated photo-supercapacitor device has been fabricated in which photoelectric conversion and energy storage are achieved simultaneously. A novel carbazole-based dye is synthesized and characterized for photosensitizer. The silver-doped titanium dioxide (Ag-TiO2) is synthesized, and it is used as photoanode material. Different concentrations of tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI)-doped polyvinyl alcohol–polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVA-PVP) blend polymer electrolytes are prepared, and their conductivity and dielectric properties were studied. Reduced graphene oxide (r-GO) is synthesized by a one-pot synthesis method and confirmed using Raman spectroscopy for counter electrode material in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and supercapacitor electrodes. The DSSC having 4% Ag-TiO2–based photoanode showed the highest efficiency of 1.06% (among r-GO counter electrodes) and 2.37% (among platinum counter electrodes). The supercapacitor before integration and after integration exhibits specific capacitance of 1.72 Fg−1 and 1.327 Fg−1, respectively.
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10
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Li J, Yun S, Han F, Si Y, Arshad A, Zhang Y, Chidambaram B, Zafar N, Qiao X. Biomass-derived carbon boosted catalytic properties of tungsten-based nanohybrids for accelerating the triiodide reduction in dye-sensitized solar cells. J Colloid Interface Sci 2020; 578:184-194. [PMID: 32526522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2020.04.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Manganese tungstate (MnWO4), zinc tungstate (ZnWO4), and copper tungstate (CuWO4) embedded biomass-derived carbon (MWO-C, ZWO-C, CWO-C) was synthesized by hydrothermal treatment and investigated as counter electrode (CE) catalysts to test electrochemical activity. Biomass-derived carbon was used as the shape controlling agent, which changed the morphology of MWO from spherical to spindle-like. Owing to the synergistic effect between tungsten-based bimetal oxides and biomass-derived carbon, the MWO-C, ZWO-C, and CWO-C catalysts exhibited enhanced electrochemical performance in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) system. The MWO-C, ZWO-C and CWO-C catalysts in DSSCs showed outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.33%, 7.61%, and 6.52%, respectively, as compared with 7.04% for Pt based devices. Biomass-derived carbon improves the catalytic properties of tungsten-based nanohybrids. The results showed that biomass-derived carbon-enhanced inorganic compound as CE catalysts are promising alternatives to Pt-based CE catalysts for energy conversion devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Li
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Sining Yun
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China.
| | - Feng Han
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Yiming Si
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Asim Arshad
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Yongwei Zhang
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Brundha Chidambaram
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Nosheen Zafar
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
| | - Xinying Qiao
- Functional Materials Laboratory (FML), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710055, China
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11
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Tian Z, Qi Z, Yang Y, Yan H, Chen Q, Zhong Q. Anchoring CuS nanoparticles on accordion-like Ti3C2 as high electrocatalytic activity counter electrodes for QDSSCs. Inorg Chem Front 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0qi00618a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A Ti3C2/CuS composite has been fabricated as a counter electrode for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells by anchoring CuS nanoparticles on Ti3C2via a facile ion-exchange method at room temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zizun Tian
- School of Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology
- Nanjing 210094
- China
| | - Zhonglu Qi
- School of Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology
- Nanjing 210094
- China
| | - Yuhao Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology
- Nanjing 210094
- China
| | - Hailong Yan
- School of Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology
- Nanjing 210094
- China
| | - Qianqiao Chen
- School of Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology
- Nanjing 210094
- China
| | - Qin Zhong
- School of Chemical Engineering
- Nanjing University of Science and Technology
- Nanjing 210094
- China
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12
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Yang Y, Zhang Q, Li F, Xia Z, Xu L. H3PW12O40/Co3O4–Cu2S as a low-cost counter electrode catalyst for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. NEW J CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0nj00500b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The PW12/Co3O4–Cu2S composite film shows excellent electrocatalytic performance and achieves a high photoelectric conversion efficiency of 4.67%, which is 46%, 55.6%, and 72%, respectively, higher than those of Cu2S, PW12/Co3O4 and Co3O4 CEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalate Science of Ministry of Education
- Department of Chemistry
- Northeast Normal University
- Changchun
- P. R. China
| | - Qiu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalate Science of Ministry of Education
- Department of Chemistry
- Northeast Normal University
- Changchun
- P. R. China
| | - Fengyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalate Science of Ministry of Education
- Department of Chemistry
- Northeast Normal University
- Changchun
- P. R. China
| | - Zhinan Xia
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalate Science of Ministry of Education
- Department of Chemistry
- Northeast Normal University
- Changchun
- P. R. China
| | - Lin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Polyoxometalate Science of Ministry of Education
- Department of Chemistry
- Northeast Normal University
- Changchun
- P. R. China
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13
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Lin Y, Song H, Rao H, Du Z, Pan Z, Zhong X. MOF-Derived Co,N Codoped Carbon/Ti Mesh Counter Electrode for High-Efficiency Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells. J Phys Chem Lett 2019; 10:4974-4979. [PMID: 31411029 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.9b02082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Carbon supported on titanium mesh electrodes has been recognized as the best performing counter electrodes (CEs) in quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). Herein, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are applied as a scaffold template for the growth of cobalt-zeolite-imidazole framework (ZIF-67) crystals, and micrometer-sized Co,N codoped porous carbon materials (Co,N-C) are obtained through a carbonization process. The as-prepared Co,N-C exhibits favorable features for electrocatalytic reduction of polysulfide, including a high surface area of 491.36 m2/g, highly effective active sites, and a hierarchical micro/mesoporous structure. Due to the large particle size, the obtained Co,N-C can couple with a Ti mesh substrate for the fabrication of high-performance Co,N-C/Ti CEs for QDSCs. As a result, the corresponding QDSCs exhibit an average efficiency of 13.55% (Jsc = 25.93 mA/cm2, Voc = 0.778 V, FF = 0.672), which is a 10.5% enhancement compared to the previous best result from the N-doped mesoporous carbon counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Lin
- College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China
| | - Han Song
- College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China
| | - Huashang Rao
- College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhonglin Du
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, the National Base of International Science and Technology Cooperation on Hybrid Materials, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenxiao Pan
- College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinhua Zhong
- College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China
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14
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Hessein A, Abd El-Moneim A. Hybrid CuS-PEOT:PSS counter electrode for quantum sensitized solar cell. OPTIK 2019; 193:162974. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijleo.2019.162974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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15
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Quasi solid-state quantum dot–sensitized solar cells with polysulfide gel polymer electrolyte for superior stability. J Solid State Electrochem 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10008-019-04365-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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16
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Li L, Jin Z, Tao R, Li F, Wang Y, Yang X, Xu L. Efficient and low-cost Cu2S-H4SiW12O40/MoS2 counter electrodes in CdS quantum-dot sensitized solar cells with high short-circuit current density. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2019.03.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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17
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Li Y, Li W, Zhao L, Ge J, He X, Fang W, Chen H. Constructing micro-flower modified porous TiO2 photoanode for efficient quantum dots sensitized solar cells. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2019.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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18
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Quy VHV, Park JH, Kang SH, Kim H, Ahn KS. Improved electrocatalytic activity of electrodeposited Ni3S4 counter electrodes for dye- and quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. J IND ENG CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2018.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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19
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Preparation of nickel selenide by pulsed-voltage electrodeposition and its application as a highly-efficient electrocatalyst at counter electrodes of quantum-dot sensitized solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.11.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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20
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Insight into the reduction and property of graphene hydrogel for high efficiency composite counter electrodes and solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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21
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Pang B, Lin S, Shi Y, Wang Y, Chen Y, Ma S, Feng J, Zhang C, Yu L, Dong L. Synthesis of CoFe2O4/graphene composite as a novel counter electrode for high performance dye-sensitized solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.11.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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22
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Wang G, Dong W, Ma P, Yan C, Zhang W, Liu J. Interconnected nitrogen and sulfur co-doped graphene-like porous carbon nanosheets with high electrocatalytic activity as counter electrodes for dye-sensitized and quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.09.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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23
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Peng Y, Guo D, Ma W, Long Y. Intrinsic Electrocatalytic Activity of Gold Nanoparticles Measured by Single Entity Electrochemistry. ChemElectroChem 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/celc.201801065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yue‐Yi Peng
- Key Laboratory for Advanced MaterialsSchool of Chemistry & Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology 130 Meilong Road Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
| | - Dan Guo
- Key Laboratory for Advanced MaterialsSchool of Chemistry & Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology 130 Meilong Road Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
| | - Wei Ma
- Key Laboratory for Advanced MaterialsSchool of Chemistry & Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology 130 Meilong Road Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
| | - Yi‐Tao Long
- Key Laboratory for Advanced MaterialsSchool of Chemistry & Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology 130 Meilong Road Shanghai 200237 P. R. China
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24
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Sun JK, Zhang L, Yue L, Tang T, Jiang WJ, Zhang Y, Pan Z, Zhong X, Hu JS, Wan LJ. Self-supported metal sulphide nanocrystals-assembled nanosheets on carbon paper as efficient counter electrodes for quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells. Sci China Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11426-018-9279-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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25
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In-situ synthesis of molybdenum sulfide/reduced graphene oxide porous film as robust counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells. J Colloid Interface Sci 2018; 524:475-482. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2018.04.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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26
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Yuan B, Gao Q, Zhang X, Duan L, Chen L, Mao Z, Li X, Lü W. Reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/Cu2S composite as catalytic counter electrode for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.04.218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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27
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Cuprous Sulfide@Carbon nanostructures based counter electrodes with cadmium sulfide/titania photoanode for liquid junction solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.05.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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28
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Muthalif MPA, Sunesh CD, Choe Y. Improved photovoltaic performance of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells based on highly electrocatalytic Ca-doped CuS counter electrodes. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2018.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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29
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Syrrokostas G, Antonelou A, Leftheriotis G, Yannopoulos SN. Electrochemical properties and long-term stability of molybdenum disulfide and platinum counter electrodes for solar cells: A comparative study. Electrochim Acta 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.02.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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30
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Hessein A, El-Moneim AA. Synthesis of copper sulfide/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for use as the counter electrodes of high-performance CdS-sensitized solar cells. NEW CARBON MATERIALS 2018; 33:26-35. [DOI: 10.1016/s1872-5805(18)60324-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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31
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Kim TY, Wei W, Lee TK, Kim BS, Park SC, Lee S, Suh EH, Jang J, Bisquert J, Kang YS. Imidazolium Iodide-Doped PEDOT Nanofibers as Conductive Catalysts for Highly Efficient Solid-State Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Employing Polymer Electrolyte. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:2537-2545. [PMID: 29281253 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b16017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The electrical conductivity and catalytic activity of nanofibrous poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)s (PEDOT NFs) was improved by redoping with dimethyl imidazolium iodide (DMII) as a charge transfer facilitator. Addition of the new DMII dopant into the PEDOT NFs reduced the concentration of dodecyl sulfate anions (DS-) predoped during the polymerization process and concomitantly enhanced the doping concentration of I- by ion exchange. Redoping with DMII increased the mobility of the PEDOT NFs by up to 18-fold and improved the conductivity due to the enhanced linearization, suppressed aggregation, and improved crystallinity of the PEDOT chains. The catalytic activity was also improved, primarily due to the increase in the compatibility and the effective surface area upon replacement of sticky DS- with the more basic and smaller I- of DMII on the surface of the PEDOT NFs. The charge-transfer resistance across the interface between the poly(ethylene oxide)-based solid polymer electrolyte and PEDOT NF counter electrode (CE) was thus reduced to a large extent, giving an energy conversion efficiency (ECE) of 8.52% for solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs), which is even better than that achieved with Pt CE (8.25%). This is the highest ECE reported for solid-state DSCs with conductive polymer CEs under 1 sun conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea-Yon Kim
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Tae Kyung Lee
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Byung Su Kim
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Seul Chan Park
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Sungjin Lee
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Eui Hyun Suh
- Department of Energy Engineering, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Jaeyoung Jang
- Department of Energy Engineering, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Juan Bisquert
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I , 12006 Castelló, Spain
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University , Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yong Soo Kang
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Hanyang University , Seoul 04763, Korea
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32
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Pan Z, Rao H, Mora-Seró I, Bisquert J, Zhong X. Quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. Chem Soc Rev 2018; 47:7659-7702. [DOI: 10.1039/c8cs00431e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A comprehensive overview of the development of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxiao Pan
- College of Materials and Energy
- South China Agricultural University
- Guangzhou 510642
- China
| | - Huashang Rao
- College of Materials and Energy
- South China Agricultural University
- Guangzhou 510642
- China
| | - Iván Mora-Seró
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM)
- Universitat Jaume I
- 12006 Castelló
- Spain
| | - Juan Bisquert
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM)
- Universitat Jaume I
- 12006 Castelló
- Spain
| | - Xinhua Zhong
- College of Materials and Energy
- South China Agricultural University
- Guangzhou 510642
- China
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33
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Sun Y, Jiang G, Zhou M, Pan Z, Zhong X. Origin of the effects of PEG additives in electrolytes on the performance of quantum dot sensitized solar cells. RSC Adv 2018; 8:29958-29966. [PMID: 35547302 PMCID: PMC9085256 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra05794j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been well established that polymer additives in electrolyte can impede the charge recombination processes at the photoanode/electrolyte interface, and improve performance, especially Voc, of the resulting sensitized solar cells. However, there are few reports about the effect of electrolyte additives on counter electrode (CE) performance. Herein, we systematically investigated the effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG) additives with various molecular weights (Mw from 300 to 20 000) in polysulfide electrolyte on the performance of two representative CdSe and Zn–Cu–In–Se (ZCISe) quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs), and explored the mechanism of the observed effects. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements indicate that all PEG additives can improve the charge recombination resistance at the photoanode/electrolyte interface, therefore suppressing the unwanted charge recombination process, and enhancing the Voc of the resulting cell devices accordingly. On the CE side, with the increase of Mw of PEG additives, the initial effect of reducing the charge transfer resistance at the CE/electrolyte interface evolves into an increasing resistance; accordingly the initial positive effect on FF turns into negative one. Accordingly, low Mw PEG can improve efficiency for both CdSe (increasing from 6.81% to 7.60%) and ZCISe QDSCs (increasing from 9.26% to 10.20%). High Mw PEG is still effective for CdSe QDSCs with an efficiency of 7.38%, but falls flat on ZCISe QDSCs (with an efficiency of 9.11%). The origin for the effect of PEG additives in polysulfide electrolyte on the performance of both photoanode and counter electrode was explored, and a facile and general route for remarkably improving photovoltaic performance of QDSCs was offered.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Sun
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering
- East China University of Science and Technology
- Shanghai 200237
- China
| | - Guocan Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering
- East China University of Science and Technology
- Shanghai 200237
- China
| | - Mengsi Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering
- East China University of Science and Technology
- Shanghai 200237
- China
| | - Zhenxiao Pan
- College of Materials and Energy
- South China Agricultural University
- Guangzhou 510642
- China
| | - Xinhua Zhong
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering
- East China University of Science and Technology
- Shanghai 200237
- China
- College of Materials and Energy
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34
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Wang H, Wu D, Cao K, Wang F, Gao Z, Xu F, Jiang K. Co(SxSe1-x)2 Nanorods Arrays with Rhombus Cross-section Exhibiting High Catalytic Activity for Quantum dot Sensitized Solar Cells. Electrochim Acta 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2017.08.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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35
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Mingsukang M, Buraidah M, Careem M, Albinsson I, Mellander B, Arof A. Investigation of counter electrode materials for gel polymer electrolyte based quantum dot sensitized solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2017.04.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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36
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Kamaja CK, Devarapalli RR, Shelke MV. One-Step Synthesis of a MoS2
−CuS Composite with High Electrochemical Activity as an Effective Counter Electrode for CdS/CdSe Sensitized Solar Cells. ChemElectroChem 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/celc.201700231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chaitanya Krishna Kamaja
- Physical and Materials Chemistry Division; CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL); Pune- 411 008, MH India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR); Chennai- 600113, TN India
| | - Rami Reddy Devarapalli
- Physical and Materials Chemistry Division; CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL); Pune- 411 008, MH India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR); Chennai- 600113, TN India
| | - Manjusha V. Shelke
- Physical and Materials Chemistry Division; CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL); Pune- 411 008, MH India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR); Chennai- 600113, TN India
- CSIR-Network Institute for Solar Energy; CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory
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37
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Manjceevan A, Bandara J. Optimization of performance and stability of quantum dot sensitized solar cells by manipulating the electrical properties of different metal sulfide counter electrodes. Electrochim Acta 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2017.03.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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38
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MoS2-graphene hybrids as efficient counter electrodes in CdS quantum-dot sensitized solar cells. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2017.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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39
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Coughlan C, Ibáñez M, Dobrozhan O, Singh A, Cabot A, Ryan KM. Compound Copper Chalcogenide Nanocrystals. Chem Rev 2017; 117:5865-6109. [PMID: 28394585 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.6b00376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This review captures the synthesis, assembly, properties, and applications of copper chalcogenide NCs, which have achieved significant research interest in the last decade due to their compositional and structural versatility. The outstanding functional properties of these materials stems from the relationship between their band structure and defect concentration, including charge carrier concentration and electronic conductivity character, which consequently affects their optoelectronic, optical, and plasmonic properties. This, combined with several metastable crystal phases and stoichiometries and the low energy of formation of defects, makes the reproducible synthesis of these materials, with tunable parameters, remarkable. Further to this, the review captures the progress of the hierarchical assembly of these NCs, which bridges the link between their discrete and collective properties. Their ubiquitous application set has cross-cut energy conversion (photovoltaics, photocatalysis, thermoelectrics), energy storage (lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen generation), emissive materials (plasmonics, LEDs, biolabelling), sensors (electrochemical, biochemical), biomedical devices (magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray computer tomography), and medical therapies (photochemothermal therapies, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and drug delivery). The confluence of advances in the synthesis, assembly, and application of these NCs in the past decade has the potential to significantly impact society, both economically and environmentally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Coughlan
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Bernal Institute, University of Limerick , Limerick, Ireland
| | - Maria Ibáñez
- Catalonia Energy Research Institute - IREC, Sant Adria de Besos , Jardins de les Dones de Negre n.1, Pl. 2, 08930 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oleksandr Dobrozhan
- Catalonia Energy Research Institute - IREC, Sant Adria de Besos , Jardins de les Dones de Negre n.1, Pl. 2, 08930 Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Electronics and Computing, Sumy State University , 2 Rymskogo-Korsakova st., 40007 Sumy, Ukraine
| | - Ajay Singh
- Materials Physics & Applications Division: Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies, Los Alamos National Laboratory , Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545, United States
| | - Andreu Cabot
- Catalonia Energy Research Institute - IREC, Sant Adria de Besos , Jardins de les Dones de Negre n.1, Pl. 2, 08930 Barcelona, Spain.,ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kevin M Ryan
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Bernal Institute, University of Limerick , Limerick, Ireland
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40
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Jiao S, Du J, Du Z, Long D, Jiang W, Pan Z, Li Y, Zhong X. Nitrogen-Doped Mesoporous Carbons as Counter Electrodes in Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells with a Conversion Efficiency Exceeding 12. J Phys Chem Lett 2017; 8:559-564. [PMID: 28075601 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.6b02864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The exploration of catalyst materials for counter electrodes (CEs) in quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) that have both high electrocatalytic activity and low charge transfer resistance is always significant yet challenging. In this work, we report the incorporation of nitrogen heteroatoms into carbon lattices leading to nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon (N-MC) materials with superior catalytic activity when used as CEs in Zn-Cu-In-Se QDSCs. A series of N-MC materials with different nitrogen contents were synthesized by a colloidal silica nanocasting method. Electrochemical measurements revealed that the N-MC with a nitrogen content of 8.58 wt % exhibited the strongest activity in catalyzing the reduction of a polysulfide redox couple (Sn2-/S2-), and therefore, the corresponding QDSC device showed the best photovoltaic performance with an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.23% and a certified PCE of 12.07% under one full sun illumination, which is a new PCE record for quantum dot based solar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Jiao
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jun Du
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhonglin Du
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Donghui Long
- School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Wuyou Jiang
- School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhenxiao Pan
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yan Li
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xinhua Zhong
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , Shanghai 200237, China
- College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University , 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China
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41
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Kim TY, Lee TK, Kim BS, Park SC, Lee S, Im SS, Bisquert J, Kang YS. Triumphing over Charge Transfer Limitations of PEDOT Nanofiber Reduction Catalyst by 1,2-Ethanedithiol Doping for Quantum Dot Solar Cells. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2017; 9:1877-1884. [PMID: 28004908 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.6b12536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Charge transfer between a conducting polymer-based counter electrode (CE) and a polysulfide (S2-/Sn2-) electrolyte mediator is a key limitation to improvements of solar energy conversion efficiency (ECE) in quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). In this paper, 1,2-ethanedithiol (EDT) was doped into nanofibrous poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT NF) to overcome the charge transfer limitation between PEDOT NF and S2-/Sn2-. EDT not only helps to reduce the aggregation and thus enhance the linearization of the PEDOT chains but also changes the molecular conformation of the PEDOT chains from a benzoid to a quinoid structure. EDT-doped PEDOT NF-based CEs showed almost 3.7 times higher conductivity, better electrocatalytic activity, and improved compatibility with S2-/Sn2- in an aqueous electrolyte. As a result, the charge transfer resistance between the polymer-based CE and the S2-/Sn2- electrolyte was significantly reduced, resulting in over 3% ECE in QDSCs, more than double that of a bare PEDOT NF-based CE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Juan Bisquert
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I , 12006 Castelló, Spain
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University , 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Wu J, Lan Z, Lin J, Huang M, Huang Y, Fan L, Luo G, Lin Y, Xie Y, Wei Y. Counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells. Chem Soc Rev 2017; 46:5975-6023. [DOI: 10.1039/c6cs00752j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 480] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This article panoramically reviews the counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells, which is of great significance for the development of photovoltaic and photoelectric devices.
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Kumar PN, Kolay A, Kumar SK, Patra P, Aphale A, Srivastava AK, Deepa M. Counter Electrode Impact on Quantum Dot Solar Cell Efficiencies. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2016; 8:27688-27700. [PMID: 27700023 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.6b08921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The counter electrode (CE), despite being as relevant as the photoanode in a quantum dot solar cell (QDSC), has hardly received the scientific attention it deserves. In this study, nine CEs (single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), tungsten oxide (WO3), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), copper sulfide (Cu2S), candle soot, functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (F-MWCNTs), reduced tungsten oxide (WO3-x), carbon fabric (C-Fabric), and C-Fabric/WO3-x) were prepared by using low-cost components and facile procedures. QDSCs were fabricated with a TiO2/CdS film which served as a common photoanode for all CEs. The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) were 2.02, 2.1, 2.79, 2.88, 2.95, 3.78, 3.66, 3.96, and 4.6%, respectively, and the incident photon to current conversion efficiency response was also found to complement the PCE response. Among all CEs employed here, C-Fabric/WO3-x outperforms all the other CEs, for the synergy between C-Fabric and WO3-x comes to the fore during cell operation. The low sheet resistance of C-Fabric and its high surface area due to the meshlike morphology enables high WO3-x loading during electrodeposition, and the good electrocatalytic activity of WO3-x, the very low overpotential, and its high electrical conductivity that facilitate electron transfer to the electrolyte are responsible for the superior PCE. WO3-based electrodes have not been used until date in QDSCs; the ease of fabrication of WO3 films and their good chemical stability and scalability also favor their application to QDSCs. Futuristic possibilities for other novel composite CEs are also discussed. We anticipate this study to be useful for a well-rounded development of high-performance QDSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Naresh Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad , Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
| | - Ankita Kolay
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad , Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
| | - S Krishna Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad , Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
| | | | | | | | - Melepurath Deepa
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad , Kandi, Sangareddy 502285, Telangana, India
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Du Z, Pan Z, Fabregat-Santiago F, Zhao K, Long D, Zhang H, Zhao Y, Zhong X, Yu JS, Bisquert J. Carbon Counter-Electrode-Based Quantum-Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells with Certified Efficiency Exceeding 11. J Phys Chem Lett 2016; 7:3103-3111. [PMID: 27455143 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.6b01356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The mean power conversion efficiency (PCE) of quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) is mainly limited by the low photovoltage and fill factor (FF), which are derived from the high redox potential of polysulfide electrolyte and the poor catalytic activity of the counter electrode (CE), respectively. Herein, we report that this problem is overcome by adopting Ti mesh supported mesoporous carbon (MC/Ti) CE. The confined area in Ti mesh substrate not only offers robust carbon film with submillimeter thickness to ensure high catalytic capacity, but also provides an efficient three-dimension electrical tunnel with better conductivity than state-of-art Cu2S/FTO CE. More importantly, the MC/Ti CE can down shift the redox potential of polysulfide electrolyte to promote high photovoltage. In all, MC/Ti CEs boost PCE of CdSe0.65Te0.35 QDSCs to a certified record of 11.16% (Jsc = 20.68 mA/cm(2), Voc = 0.798 V, FF = 0.677), an improvement of 24% related to previous record. This work thus paves a way for further improvement of performance of QDSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Du
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Institute of Applied Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology , 200237 Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenxiao Pan
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Institute of Applied Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology , 200237 Shanghai, China
| | | | - Ke Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Institute of Applied Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology , 200237 Shanghai, China
| | - Donghui Long
- School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology , 200237 Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Institute of Applied Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology , 200237 Shanghai, China
| | - Yixin Zhao
- School of Environmental Engineering, Shanghai Jiaotong University , 200240 Shanghai, China
| | - Xinhua Zhong
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Institute of Applied Chemistry, East China University of Science and Technology , 200237 Shanghai, China
| | - Jong-Sung Yu
- Department of Energy Systems Engineering, DGIST , 42988 Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Juan Bisquert
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I , 12006 Castelló, Spain
- Department of Chemistry, King Abdulaziz University , Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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A new probe into thin copper sulfide counter electrode with thickness below 100 nm for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. Electrochim Acta 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2016.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Liu L, Liu C, Fu W, Deng L, Zhong H. Phase Transformations of Copper Sulfide Nanocrystals: Towards Highly Efficient Quantum-Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells. Chemphyschem 2015; 17:771-6. [DOI: 10.1002/cphc.201500627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lige Liu
- School of Physics, Beijing Institute of Technology; 5 Zhongguancun South Street Haidian District Beijing 100081 China
| | - Chang Liu
- School of Physics, Beijing Institute of Technology; 5 Zhongguancun South Street Haidian District Beijing 100081 China
| | - Wenping Fu
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology; 5 Zhongguancun South Street Haidian District Beijing 100081 China
| | - Luogen Deng
- School of Physics, Beijing Institute of Technology; 5 Zhongguancun South Street Haidian District Beijing 100081 China
| | - Haizheng Zhong
- School of Materials Science & Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology; 5 Zhongguancun South Street Haidian District Beijing 100081 China
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Kim TY, Wei W, Cho W, Lee S, Won J, Kang YS. Excellent optical and interfacial performance of a PEDOT-b-PEG block copolymer counter electrode for polymer electrolyte-based solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells. Chem Commun (Camb) 2015; 51:16782-5. [DOI: 10.1039/c5cc06546a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PEDOT-b-PEG block copolymer doped with perchlorate on FTO shows excellent performance as a counter electrode in polymer electrolyte-based solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea-Yon Kim
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next-Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
- Hanyang University
- Korea
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next-Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
- Hanyang University
- Korea
| | - Woohyung Cho
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next-Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
- Hanyang University
- Korea
| | - Sungjin Lee
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next-Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
- Hanyang University
- Korea
| | - Jongok Won
- Department of Chemistry
- Sejong Polymer Research Center
- Sejong University
- 209
- Neungdong-ro
| | - Yong Soo Kang
- Department of Energy Engineering and Center for Next-Generation Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
- Hanyang University
- Korea
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