An integrated approach to enhance the overall performance of quantum dot sensitized solar cells

The performance of quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSC) remains as low as -13% though it possess unique distinguished features compared to conventional silicon cells. The future of QDSSC can be optimistic if concerns of charge recombination and stability of cells can be worked upon. This work reports an efficient hybrid composites as photo anode to address the recombination in the device. The anode has been modified by an integrated approach of utilizing Graphene nanoribbons as quick electron extractor and lanthanide dopant (Neodymium) to create oxygen vacancies, surface states to trap electrons, reduce band gap and extend the lifetime of the electron-hole pair. The material has been characterised using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The performance studies of the device have been carried out by IV characteristics to study the overall performance and recombination dynamics using impedance studies. The designed modified photo anode reports a higher efficiency (-6%) for cadmium sulphide QDs deposited via successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) and stands as one of the best photo anode for QDSSC. (author)