Efficient Counter Electrode Manufactured from Ag sub(2)S Nanocrystal Ink for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

It is generally believed that silver or silver-based compounds are not suitable counter electrode (CE) materials for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) due to the corrosion of the I super(-)/I sub(3) super(-) redox couple in electrolytes. However, Ag sub(2)S has potential applications in DSSCs for catalyzing I sub(3) super(-) reduction reactions because of its high carrier concentration and tiny solubility product constant. In the present work, CE manufactured from Ag sub(2)S nanocrystals ink exhibited efficient electrocatalytic activity in the reduction of I sub(3) super(-) to I super(-) in DSSCs. The DSSC consisting of Ag sub(2)S CE displayed a higher power conversion efficiency of 8.40% than that of Pt CE (8.11%). Moreover, the devices also showed the characteristics of fast activity onset, high multiple start/stop capability and good irradiated stability. The simple composition, easy preparation, stable chemical property, and good catalytic performance make the developed Ag sub(2)S CE as a promising alternative to Pt CE in DSSCs. Energy conversion: A counter electrode manufactured from Ag sub(2)S nanocrystal ink exhibited efficient electrocatalytic activity in the reduction of I sub(3) super(-) to I super(-) in dye-sensitized solar cells (see figure; DSSCs, eta =8.40%). The simple composition, easy preparation, stable chemical properties and good catalytic performance make the newly developed Ag sub(2)S a promising alternative to Pt in DSSCs.