Ti3C2 MXene quantum dots decorated mesoporous TiO2/Nb2O5 functional photoanode for dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract

Despite the apparent benefits of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), such as low-cost preparation, multicolor transparency, and a wide range of practical applications, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) still needs further improvement. In order to maximize the PCE, it is critical to devise an appropriate configuration of the photoanode that encourages charge generation and separation. Here, we have successfully altered the energy level alignment of the photoanode by introducing niobium oxide (Nb2O5) and Ti3C2 quantum dots (MQDs) into the photoanode, which has led to a substantial increase in both photocurrent and efficiency. Nb2O5 and Ti3C2 quantum dots are believed to exhibit higher light absorption, improved carrier separation, and expedited charge transfer due to their distinct band structure and optoelectronic characteristics. The DSSC device constructed with the target composite photoanode shows a remarkable PCE of 7.24%, far surpassing the standard device's efficiency of 4.60%.