Electrodes For Solar Cells Research Articles

Facile hydrothermal synthesis of Cu doped MoS2 nanoparticles for enhanced dye-sensitized solar cell performance

This study presents a facile, scalable, and cost-effective hydrothermal method for synthesizing Cu doped MoS2 nanoparticles as efficient counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). MoS2 nanoparticles were doped with Cu at 5 and 10 mol% concentrations. The structural, morphological, and optoelectronic properties of the synthesized MoS2:Cu nanoparticles were systematically characterized using a suite of microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. DSSCs were fabricated using pure MoS2, MoS2@Cu 5 mol%, and MoS2@Cu 10 mol% as counter electrodes, and their photovoltaic performance was evaluated. The DSSC with pure MoS2 counter electrode exhibited a short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 11.02 mA/cm2, an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.70 V, a fill factor (FF) of 70 %, and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.39 %. The MoS2@Cu 5 mol% electrode demonstrated enhanced performance with Jsc = 13.04 mA/cm2, Voc = 0.71 V, FF = 72 %, and PCE = 6.55 %. Notably, the MoS2@Cu 10 mol% electrode exhibited superior performance, achieving Jsc = 14.09 mA/cm2, Voc = 0.73 V, FF = 81 %, and a remarkable PCE of 8.12 %. This significant enhancement in photovoltaic parameters is attributed to the improved photovoltaic performance and charge transport properties of the Cu doped MoS2 nanoparticles. Our findings demonstrate the potential of Cu-doped MoS2 as an effective and low-cost alternative to conventional counter electrode materials in DSSCs, paving the way for further optimization and scalable production of high-efficiency solar cells.

Optical and Methanol Sensing Properties of Al-doped ZnO Thin Film

The study investigates the optical and electrical properties of undoped and aluminum (Al)-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) films, focusing on their performance as gas sensors and their potential applications. Optical analysis, conducted using UV-visible spectrophotometry, reveals that 1% Al-doped ZnO films exhibit the highest transmittance of 91%, indicating superior optical clarity and suitability for applications like solar cell electrodes. In contrast, 3% Al-doped ZnO films show significantly lower transmittance due to increased light scattering and photon absorption. The bandgap of ZnO films decreases with higher Al doping concentrations, from 3.3 eV for undoped ZnO to 3.15 eV for 3% Al-doped ZnO, suggesting enhanced electrical conductivity due to reduced bandgap. The extinction coefficient data demonstrate that 2% Al-doped ZnO has the highest extinction coefficient, reflecting improved light absorption and scattering properties. Electrical characterization through I-V curves indicates that 1% Al-doped ZnO films have higher current (121 µA) compared to undoped (431 µA) and higher doping concentrations, attributed to enhanced carrier concentration and mobility. Sensitivity tests show that 2.5% Al-doped ZnO films exhibit the highest sensitivity to methanol vapor, with a significant reduction in resistance compared to 0.5% Al-doped ZnO films. Resistance measurements with varying methanol volumes reveal a rapid decrease upon gas introduction, stabilizing and then increasing as the gas is removed. Sensitivity analysis indicates that 100 µL methanol provides the highest sensitivity (97%) at 60°C, while 2% Al-doped ZnO films show consistent sensitivity at 60 °C and 100 °C, but not at 80 °C.

Efficient dye-sensitized solar cell with affordable alternative to platinum free counter electrode

The study focuses on MnCO3/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite to investigate its capability against reduction of triiodide (I3⁻), and hence to utilise its potential as a platinum free electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The MnCO3/rGO composites were prepared with varying weight percentages of rGO to identify the optimal configuration to attain enhanced catalytic performance. The MnCO3/rGO 75 wt% composite exhibited the optimal catalytic reaction kinetics for converting triiodide (I3⁻) to iodide (I⁻), achieving a photon to electron conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.62 %, with a photocurrent density (Jsc) of 13.29 mA cm⁻², voltage (Voc) of 0.76 V, and a fill factor (FF) of 0.65 at without load. This output performance is on par with that of to that of a conventional platinum (Pt) Counter Electrode, which achieved a PCE of 6.98 %. The findings indicate that MnCO3/rGO 75 wt% composite shows significant promise, cost-effective alternative to Pt, offering efficient performance and improved material sustainability.

Synthesis of CuCo2S4 nanosheets and its application in dye-sensitized solar cells

CuCo2S4, a ternary sulfide and an eco-friendly thiospinel that occurs naturally as a mineral named Carrollite, has been synthesized successfully in ambient conditions at low temperatures using ultrasonication. It has yet to be reported, but the nanosheet structure obtained from the ultrasonication synthesis method employed as a counter electrode in the dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) has been demonstrated. The purity, crystallinity, morphology, and structure were explored thoroughly through the medium of XRD, SEM, TEM, SAED, and EDAX, and along with this, the presence of metal sulfide bond was investigated with the FT-IR and Raman spectra, which altogether confirmed the formation of CuCo2S4 nanosheet. The as-prepared nanosheets of CuCo2S4 have shown excellent homogeneity, as expected. Also, the presence of sulfur in the synthesized CuCo2S4, which is a highly polarizable atom and of a smaller size exhibiting a higher surface area, demonstrates higher electrocatalytic activity when fabricated as a counter-electrode in DSSCs by providing an incredible short circuit current density of 31.05 mA cm−2, open circuit potential of 735 mV with good fill factor value which altogether resulted in the power conversion efficiency of 10.21 % nearer to DSSC fabricated with Platinum counter electrode under the same conditions.

Nitrogen and sulfur co-doped porous carbon obtained from direct carbonization of a renewable biomass for counter electrode of efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

It is highly necessary to fabricate cost-effective counter electrode for promoting the development and practical deployment of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Herein, nitrogen and sulfur co-doped porous carbon (NSPC) is prepared through directly carbonizing a renewable biomass, Eupatorium fortunei Turcz., and used as an alternative to expensive Pt to fabricate low-cost counter electrode for high-performance DSSCs. Scanning electron microscopy and N2 adsorption analyses demonstrate that the obtained carbon sample displays a hierarchical pore structure containing macropore channels and well-developed mesopores formed on the wall of macropore channels. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements suggest that nitrogen and sulfur atoms are doped in the framework of as-prepared carbon sample. These favorable characteristics endow the obtained NSPC counter electrode with a superior electrocatalytic performance. Consequently, the assembled DSSC with NSPC counter electrode shows an efficiency of 8.25%, nearly matching the efficiency of the cell with conventional Pt counter electrode.

Surface Modification of Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin Layer Solar Cell Electrode with Organosilane.

Solar cell (SC) technologies, which are essential in the transition toward sustainable energy, utilize photovoltaic cells to convert solar energy into electricity. Of the available technologies, heterojunction with intrinsic thin-layer (HIT) solar cells offers high efficiency and reliability. The current study explored the enhancement of HIT solar cell performance through the use of 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on the surface of the cells' indium tin oxide (ITO) layer. Photoluminescence mapping revealed greater brightness and photocurrent in the HIT sample treated with APTMS SAMs, with the results indicating more favorable optical and electrical properties. The application of APTMS SAMs led to higher open-circuit voltage, fill factor, maximum power output, and efficiency by passivating the ITO surface and achieving energy level alignment, thereby enhancing the charge carrier dynamics. These findings demonstrate the potential of APTMS SAMs to improve HIT solar cell efficiency and reliability.

Enhanced Photovoltaic Performance of Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene)Poly(N-Alkylcarbazole) Copolymer-Based Counter Electrode in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Conducting polymers are emerging as promising alternatives to rare and expensive platinum for counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells; due to their ease of synthesis, they can be chemically tuned and are suitable for roll-to-roll production. Among these, poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-based counter electrodes have shown leading photovoltaic performance. However, certain conductivity issues remain that affect the effectiveness of these counter electrodes. In this study, we present an electropolymerized PEDOT and poly(N-alkylated-carbazole) copolymer as an efficient electrocatalyst for the reduction in I3− in dye-sensitized solar cells. Copolymerization with N-alkylated carbazoles significantly increases the conductivity of the polymer film and facilitates rapid charge transport at the interface between the polymer electrode and the electrolyte. The length of the alkyl substituents also plays a crucial role in this improvement. Electrochemical analysis showed a reduction in charge transport resistance from 3.31 Ω·cm2 for PEDOT to 2.26 Ω·cm2 for the PEDOT:poly(N-octylcarbazole) copolymer, which is almost half the resistance of a platinum-based counter electrode (4.12 Ω·cm2). Photovoltaic measurements showed that the solar cell with the PEDOT:poly(N-octylcarbazole) counter electrode achieved an efficiency of 8.88%, outperforming both PEDOT (7.90%) and platinum-based devices (7.57%).

Improving the properties of Pt-free dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) by PEDOT:PSS/SnSe-rGO-based counter electrode: Exploring the electrocatalytic activity

In this study, we synthesized SnSe-rGO/PEDOT nanostructures and evaluated their potential as counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Developing cost-effective counter electrodes for DSSCs is a critical challenge, as traditional designs often rely on platinum, an expensive material. Therefore, identifying alternative materials that are both effective and durable is of significant interest. We characterized the structural and morphological properties of the synthesized nanostructures using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and FESEM. Additionally, we investigated their electrochemical and electrocatalytic performance through EIS, CV, and Tafel measurements. The solar cells fabricated with SnSe-rGO/PEDOT:PSS counter electrodes achieved an efficiency of 8.78 %, a notable improvement over the 8.13 % efficiency observed in cells with Pt counter electrodes. These findings suggest that SnSe-rGO/PEDOT nanostructures hold great promise as a more affordable and efficient alternative to platinum in DSSCs.

Exploring the potential of SnSe/PANi composite counter electrodes for improved efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells

This paper investigates the synthesis and characterization of novel counter electrodes (CEs) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), focusing on composite polyaniline (PANi) nanofibers integrated with tin selenide (SnSe). Three CEs, namely SnSe, PANi, and their composite, were prepared via facile hydrothermal and cyclic voltammetry methods and compared with a standard platinum (Pt) CE. The efficiencies obtained were 4.20 %, 5.63 %, 8.39 %, and 7.72 % for SnSe, PANi, SnSe/PANi, and Pt CEs, respectively. The improved efficiencies, particularly in the case of the SnSe/PANi composite, were attributed to increased short-circuit density of the composite sample. The materials and devices prepared in this study are characterized using various methods including FESEM, TEM, XRD, Raman and FTIR spectroscopies, EIS, Tafel, OCVD, IPCE and etc to support our proposed CE structure. Our findings demonstrate the promising potential of SnSe/PANi composite CEs in enhancing the performance and affordability of DSSCs.

Effect of Tungsten Doping on the Properties of Titanium Dioxide Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Tungsten-doped TiO2 thin films were prepared by sol–gel method on fluorine-doped tin oxide-coated substrates as working electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells. The influences of different W doping (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 at%) on the microstructure, optical, and photovoltaic properties of the W-TiO2 thin-film DSSCs were studied by the measurement of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). An optimal DSSCs performance was observed with a 6 at% W-doped TiO2 thin film, resulting in a Voc of 0.68 V, a Jsc of 20.2 mA/cm2, an FF of 68.6%, and an efficiency (η) of 9.42%. The efficiency of DSSCs with 6 at% W-doped TiO2 photoanode improved by 75%. This is because the 6 at% W-doped TiO2 thin film increases the specific surface area and electron transfer rate.

Flower-like SnS2/rGO composites with efficient iodide-triiodide redox performance for counter electrodes in Pt-free dye-sensitized solar cells

The work function (WF) of the counter electrode (CE) predominantly determines the device performance of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) as it controls the electron transfer rate for dye regeneration. Hence in this work, tin disulphide/reduced graphene oxide (SnS2/rGO) composites were synthesized with different wt.% of rGO (3, 5, 7, 10 %) and investigated their performance in DSSCs applications. At the outset, the formation of pristine SnS2 and SnS2/rGO composites were confirmed through X-ray diffraction and Raman spectral analysis. The morphological imaging revealed the micro flower-like structure of SnS2 with cross-sectional width of 5 ± 0.2 μm, and petal thickness ranges from 30.7 nm to 46.4 nm. The binding energy spectra confirms the 4+ oxidation state of Sn in both SnS2 and 7 wt% SnS2/rGO, suggesting that the rGO does not alter the chemical states of SnS2. Further, the peak-to-peak separation values obtained from Cylic-Voltammetry analysis were found to be 0.37 and 0.57 V for S7 and Pt CE respectively, indicating the rapid electrolyte reduction of 7 wt% SnS2/rGO. Finally, a photo conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.3 % has been achieved with 7 wt% SnS2/rGO CE which is greater than that of the PCE with Pt CE (6.5 %) and also higher than that of pristine SnS2 with 4.7 %. The improved PCE is attributed to the reduced WF of the 7 wt% SnS2/rGO composite as measured from the Kelvin probe force microscopy analysis, enabling the rapid redox reaction towards triiodide reduction.

Poly(aniline)-multiwall carbon nanotube (PANI@MWCNT) composite as high-cost Pt free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

In this study, we synthesized a poly (aniline)-multiwall carbon nanotube (PANI@MWCNT) composite for use as a counter electrode (CE) in dye-sensitized solar cells. Moreover, FE-SEM and HR-TEM images of PANI@MWCNT revealed carbon nanotube/ropes embedded in the polymer matrix. An X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed the amorphous nature of the composite. Further, Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies indicated a charge transport resistance value (Rct) of 4.36 KΩ for PANI@MWCNT. CV studies demonstrated improved electrocatalytic performance and faster redox behavior in the PANI@MWCNT composite. BET analysis measured the pore size of the as-prepared composite to be 15–50 nm. Subsequently, the as-synthesized PANI, PANT@MWNCT, pristine MWCNT, and platinum were evaluated as CEs in DSSCs using a polyethylene oxide polymer-based liquid electrolyte and a TiO2 nanocrystalline photoanode. Among these CEs, the PANI@MWCNT CE exhibited an efficiency of 8.07 %, and the stability test indicated that the as-prepared composite CE retained 7.81 % efficiency after 15 days.

Density functional theory study of cobalt sulfide as a counter electrode material for dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are viewed as potential substitutes for traditional silicon-based solar cells due to their affordability, impressive performance in low-light conditions, eco-friendly energy production, and adaptability in solar product integration. The use of noble metals such as platinum as counter electrodes in DSSCs was initially limited by their high cost; however, cobalt sulfide has been recognized as a viable alternative due to its abundance, non-toxic properties, and cost-effectiveness. In this work, the crystal structure, electronic, optical characteristics and electrocatalytic activity of the tetragonal phases of cobalt sulfide are investigated through density functional theory with a quantum espresso package. The results obtained for the lattice parameter are a = b = 3.53 Å and c = 4.80 Å. The generalized gradient approximation and hybrid exchange correlation function yield bandgaps of 1.63 and 1.69 eV, respectively, which are consistent with the reported experimental values. An analysis of the density of states and the projected density was carried out to validate the accuracy of the calculated band gaps. Additionally, significant information was obtained from the optical properties through the calculation of the dielectric function. The findings reveal real and imaginary static dielectric constants of 11.85 and 0.13, respectively. Furthermore, the measured absorption and conductivity spectra exhibit promising attributes in the UV–visible range and good electrical conductivity. Moreover, the electrocatalytic activity was studied to analyze the adsorption energy of CoS and the electrolyte. Generally, the calculated electronic and optical properties of CoS crystals indicate their potential application as counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells.

W-based carbide derived from PW12@ZIF-8 as Pt-free catalyst on counter electrode of dye-sensitized solar cells for triiodide reduction

The preparation of counter electrodes (CEs) catalysts at different pyrolysis temperatures will directly affect the composition, morphology, and performance of the catalysts in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) applications. Herein, four W-based carbides catalysts were derived from H3PW12O40-based ZIF-8 metal–organic frameworks (PW12@ZIF-8) by in-situ pyrolysis at 600, 700, 800, and 900 ℃ under N2 atmosphere. The pyrolysis mechanism and structure characteristics of the prepared W-based carbides with temperature variation were confirmed by TG-DTG-DSC simultaneous, XRD, XPS, TEM, SEM and N2 adsorption/desorption, which exhibits the gradual transformation of PW12@ZIF–8 → WC-C→WC→W1-xC→W2C. Furthermore, the photovoltaic performance of four different W-based carbides as CEs catalysts for regenerating I3−/I− shuttles in DSSCs were identified by photocurrent-voltage (J-V) measurement, which achieved PCEs of 4.63, 4.91, 5.05 and 5.78 %, respectively. As a result, W2C (900 ℃) provide more vacancies and defects on the catalyst surface as abundant catalytic active sites, as well as promote the appearance of more pores and voids in the morphology to diffuse and permeate electrolyte due to the highest specific surface area, and the PCE value of 5.78 % was also superior to 5.51 % of Pt CE.

Application of in-situ synthesized gelidium-like core-shell structure FeCo2S4@NiCo2S4/carbon paper composite on titanium mesh in counter electrode of liquid thin film solar cells

Design inexpensive and stable counter electrodes materials is great essential for accelerating the industrial application of dye-sensitized solar cells. Herein, transition metal sulfides FeCo2S4 and NiCo2S4 were in-situ synthesized into composite with core–shell structure on surface of carbon paper by hydrothermal method, and is used as CEs material of DSSCs. Besides, titanium mesh with lower resistivity is also used as a conductive base to prepare the CEs and reduce the series resistance of DSSCs. Therefore, after electrochemical analysis and photoelectric performance test, it is found that the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the DSSCs assembled with composite material CEs can be as high as 10.08 % (with the Jsc is 19.59 mA·cm−2, Voc is 0.796 V, FF is 0.65), which much higher than traditional Pt CEs (7.99 %) and other corresponding counterparts, indicating that the core–shell structure is more conducive to improving the catalytic activity of the material.

Magnetic Nanocomposite Modified Hybrid Hole-Transport Layer for Constructing Organic Solar Cells with High Efficiencies.

An interface modification layer holds paramount significance in reducing interface carrier recombination and improving the ohmic contact between the active layer and the electrode in organic solar cells (OSCs). Modifying or doping the widely used hole-transport layer (HTL) PEDOT:PSS to adjust the work function, conductivity, and acidity has become a common strategy for achieving high-performance OSCs. Metal oxides and two-dimensional materials as secondary dopants into PEDOT:PSS, respectively, as well as a replacement of PEDOT:PSS both exhibit immense potential for achieving high-performance OSCs due to their excellent electrical properties. Herein, we report a method utilizing a Fe3O4/GO magnetic nanocomposite as a secondary dopant for PEDOT:PSS to modulate its inherent properties for constructing high-efficiency OSCs. The magnetic nanocomposite hybrid HTL exhibits a suitable optical transmittance and higher work function. Meanwhile, it is found that the addition of Fe3O4/GO magnetic nanoparticles expands the domain of PEDOT and enhances the phase separation between PEDOT and PSS segments, thereby improving the conductivity of PEDOT:PSS. By fine-tuning the doping ratio of a Fe3O4/GO magnetic nanocomposite in PEDOT:PSS, the best power conversion efficiency of OSCs based on PM6:L8-BO was up to 18.91%. The notable enhancement of the device's performance was due to the enhanced hole mobility and the improved charge extraction, further complemented by the decreased likelihood of interface recombination brought about by the hybrid HTL. Compared with PEDOT:PSS-based OSCs, an enhanced stability of the hybrid HTL-based device was also obtained. In addition, the diverse adaptability of the hybrid HTL was demonstrated in enhancing the performance of OSCs that are based on PM6:Y6 and PBDB-T:ITIC. The effectiveness and versatility of a magnetic nanocomposite hybrid HTL present opportunities for achieving high-performance OSCs.

N, S co-doped lignin graded porous carbon as efficient Pt-free counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells

N, S co-doped lignin graded porous carbon as efficient Pt-free counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells

2D/2D-Graphene Functionalized MXene as an Alternative Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

2D/2D-Graphene Functionalized MXene as an Alternative Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Enhancing Conductivity in Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells with Silver Nanowire-Assisted Ti3C2Tx MXene Electrodes for Cost-Effective and Scalable Photovoltaics.

Silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells have set world-record efficiencies among single-junction silicon solar cells, accelerating their commercial deployment. Despite these clear efficiency advantages, the high costs associated with low-temperature silver pastes (LTSP) for metallization have driven the search for more economical alternatives in mass production. 2D transition metal carbides (MXenes) have attracted significant attention due to their tunable optoelectronic properties and metal-like conductivity, the highest among all solution-processed 2D materials. MXenes have emerged as a cost-effective alternative for rear-side electrodes in SHJ solar cells. However, the use of MXene electrodes has so far been limited to lab-scale SHJ solar cells. The efficiency of these devices has been constrained by a fill factor (FF) of under 73%, primarily due to suboptimal charge transport at the contact layer/MXene interface. Herein, a silver nanowire (AgNW)-assisted Ti3C2Tx MXene electrode contact is introduced and explores the potential of this hybrid electrode in industry-scale solar cells. By incorporating this hybrid electrode into SHJ solar cells, 9.0 cm2 cells are achieved with an efficiency of 24.04% (FF of 81.64%) and 252 cm2 cells with an efficiency of 22.17% (FFof 76.86%), among the top-performing SHJ devices with non-metallic electrodes to date. Additionally, the stability and cost-effectiveness of these solar cells are discussed.

A Polymeric Two-in-One Electron Transport Layer and Transparent Electrode for Efficient Indoor All-Organic Solar Cells.

Transparent electrodes (TEs) are vital in optoelectronic devices, enabling the interaction of light and charges. While indium tin oxide (ITO) has traditionally served as a benchmark TE, its high cost prompts the exploration of alternatives to optimize electrode characteristics and improve device efficiencies. Conducting polymers, which combine polymer advantages with metal-like conductivity, emerge as a promising solution for TEs. This work introduces a two-in-one electron transport layer (ETL) and TE based on films of polyethylenimine ethoxylated (PEIE)-modified poly(benzodifurandione) (PBFDO). These PEIE-modified PBFDO layers exhibit a unique combination of properties, including low sheet resistance (130 Ω sq-1), low work function (4.2 eV), and high optical transparency (>85% in the UV-vis-NIR range). In contrast to commonly used poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), the doping level of PBFDO remains unaffected by the PEIE treatment, as verified through UV-vis-NIR absorption and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. When employed as a two-in-one ETL/TE in organic solar cells, the PEIE-modified PBFDO electrode exhibits performance comparable to conventional ITO electrodes. Moreover, this work demonstrates all-organic solar cells with record-high power conversion efficiencies of >15.1% under indoor lighting conditions. These findings hold promise for the development of fully printed, all-organic optoelectronic devices.