Quantum dot-sensitized solar cells: A review on interfacial engineering strategies for boosting efficiency

Improving the efficiency of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells by increasing the QD loading amount

“…Since then, CLIS has become the mainstream method for the construction of photoanodes in QDSCs. Accompanied by the development of various other strategies, such as the design and tailoring of QD light-harvesting materials, [20][21][22][23][24][25][26] control of charge recombination kinetics, 27 additive engineering of electrolyte, [28][29][30] catalytic ability enhancement of the counter electrode, etc., [31][32][33][34] the efficiencies of QDSCs have rapidly increased from less than 5% in 2012 to over 16% in 2023. 20,21,[35][36][37][38][39][40] However, the current efficiencies of QDSCs are still far below the theoretical level of 44%.…”

“…There have been excellent comprehensive reviews in the eld of QDSCs and thematic reviews in the aspects of device construction, the design of QD materials, control of charge recombination, exploration of new counter electrodes, etc. 4,6,13,27,41 Since high QD loading amount is essential for the enhancement of QDSC performances, a specic review to summarize these studies and related loading mechanisms is necessary. This review begins with an analysis of the QD loading process, unraveling the QD loading mechanism with an emphasis on loading driving forces and energy effects.…”

Dual Functionality of Surface States in Dictating Photocurrent Generation of Au Nanocluster-Sensitized TiO2 Electrodes

“…Furthermore, despite exhibiting molecule-like behavior, NCs retain a distinct metallic core, differentiating them from traditional molecules . Unlike quantum dots, which primarily offer passivation, , NCs have the potential to introduce additional surface trap states on TiO 2 during sensitization . This is largely attributed to the functional groups present in thiol-based stabilizers (e.g., glutathione).…”

Comparative Study of TiO2, ZnO, and Nb2O5 Photoanodes for Nitro-Substituted Naphthoquinone Photosensitizer-Based Solar Cells

“…Still, it would be interesting to find cheaper alternatives due to the high cost of these complex technologies and expensive methods. Solar cells made of crystalline silicon are more costly and have a limited application. , Perovskite, , quantum-dot, and dye-sensitized solar cells are examples of third-generation solar cell technology that has met the requirement of a low-cost, straightforward fabrication process. − Over the past few years, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have emerged as promising third-generation solar cell technology. , DSSCs make use of photovoltaic energy, making use of nontoxic and environment-friendly materials . DSSCs have generated a lot of research attention because of their simple manufacturing process, low cost, ease of scaling up, nontoxicity, lighter weight, and potential usage of the flexible substrate with transparent and colorful nature …”

“…Solar cells made of crystalline silicon are more costly and have a limited application. 17 , 18 Perovskite, 19 , 20 quantum-dot, 21 and dye 22 -sensitized solar cells are examples of third-generation solar cell technology that has met the requirement of a low-cost, straightforward fabrication process. 23 − 26 Over the past few years, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have emerged as promising third-generation solar cell technology.…”