Quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells: Understanding linker molecules through theory and experiment

Margraf J, Ruland A, Sgobba V, Guldi DM, Clark T (2013)

Publication Status: Published

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2013

Journal

Original Authors: Margraf JT, Ruland A, Sgobba V, Guldi DM, Clark T

Publisher: American Chemical Society

Book Volume: 29

Pages Range: 2434-2438

Journal Issue: 7

DOI: 10.1021/la3047609

Abstract

We have investigated the role of linker molecules in quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) using density-functional theory (DFT) and experiments. Linkers not only govern the number of attached QDs but also influence charge separation, recombination, and transport. Understanding their behavior is therefore not straightforward. DFT calculations show that mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) and cysteine (Cys) exhibit characteristic binding configurations on TiO2 surfaces. This information is used to optimize the cell assembly process, yielding Cys-based cells that significantly outperform MPA cells, and reach power conversion efficiencies (PCE) as high as 2.7% under AM 1.5 illumination. Importantly, the structural information from theory also helps understand the cause for this improved performance.

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APA:

Margraf, J., Ruland, A., Sgobba, V., Guldi, D.M., & Clark, T. (2013). Quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells: Understanding linker molecules through theory and experiment. Langmuir, 29(7), 2434-2438. https://doi.org/10.1021/la3047609

MLA:

Margraf, Johannes, et al. "Quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells: Understanding linker molecules through theory and experiment." Langmuir 29.7 (2013): 2434-2438.

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