Optically transparent graphene nanoplatelet inks as low cost electrocatalysts for liquid dye sensitised solar cells

J. Baker, T.M. Watson, D. Jones, D. Deganello, D.T. Gethin, T.C. Claypole

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingChapter in a published conference proceeding

1 Citation (SciVal)

Abstract

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) functionalised with platinum were explored as the active material in a high specific surface area ink. The ink had a transmission at 550nm (T550) = 85% and a charge transfer resistance (Rct) of 6Ω/cm2. Although the Rct is higher than required for laboratory cells having a Jsc of 20mA/cm2 under 1 sun test conditions it is sufficient for industrially produced reverse devices, especially when utilised for indoor applications where light conditions will be lower than 100W/m2. This was demonstrated by reverse illuminated DSC efficiencies with flexible cathodes which were equivalent to cells with sputtered platinum catalysts when subjected to 300W/m2 lighting or less. A modification to the ink, suitable for catalysing a Co2+/3+ electrolyte having an Rct of 2Ω/cm2 and T550=85% was undertaken. This demonstrates potential for use in high efficiency cobalt mediated DSCs. The work shows that printed graphene catalysts are a versatile low cost replacement to sputtered platinum in reverse illuminated DSCs for dye sensitised solar cells.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMaterials Research Society Symposium Proceedings
PublisherSpringer
Pages1-6
Volume1667
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Sept 2014

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