Efficient One-Step Synthesis of a Pt-Free Zn0.76Co0.24S Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells and Its Versatile Application in Photoelectrochromic Devices


Tashenov Y. Suleimenova D. Baptayev B. Adilov S. Balanay M.P.
October 2023Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)

Nanomaterials
2023#13Issue 20

In this study, we synthesized a ternary transition metal sulfide, Zn0.76Co0.24S (ZCS-CE), using a one-step solvothermal method and explored its potential as a Pt-free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Comprehensive investigations were conducted to characterize the structural, morphological, compositional, and electronic properties of the ZCS-CE electrode. These analyses utilized a range of techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrocatalytic performance of ZCS-CE for the reduction of I3− species in a symmetrical cell configuration was evaluated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Our findings reveal that ZCS-CE displayed superior electrocatalytic activity and stability when compared to platinum in I−/I3− electrolyte systems. Furthermore, ZCS-CE-based DSSCs achieved power conversion efficiencies on par with their Pt-based counterparts. Additionally, we expanded the applicability of this material by successfully powering an electrochromic cell with ZCS-CE-based DSSCs. This work underscores the versatility of ZCS-CE and establishes it as an economically viable and environmentally friendly alternative to Pt-based counter electrodes in DSSCs and other applications requiring outstanding electrocatalytic performance.

dye-sensitized solar cell , photoelectrochromic device , Prussian Blue , Pt-free counter electrode , ternary sulfide

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National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan
Department of Chemistry, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, 2 Satpayev St, Astana, 010008, Kazakhstan
Department of Chemistry, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan

National Laboratory Astana
Department of Chemistry
Department of Chemistry

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