Insights into MoS2 and its composites for dye-sensitized solar cells

Dye-sensitized solar cells have received immense interest in the research society since its finding in 1991 mainly because of the ease of fabrication and the resources employed are low-cost and also be environmentally friendly. In conventional dye-sensitized solar cells, platinum is used as a counter electrode since it offers good electrocatalytic activity toward the triiodide ion reduction and also possesses high electrical conductivity. However, the corrosive nature and scarcity of platinum are considered the limitations of platinum counter electrodes in the dye-sensitized solar cell. To overcome this, significant research is going on to explore alternative counter electrode materials. This review focuses on MoS2 and its composites. We also discuss reports where, interestingly, MoS2 can also be applied as the photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Importantly, the influence of morphology on the performance of the devices is summarized. Further, in the context of counter electrodes, the importance of electrochemical investigation and electrochemical stability of the electrodes have also been discussed.

Automated summary

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have attracted significant attention due to their ease of fabrication, low cost, and environmentally friendly nature. Platinum (Pt) is conventionally used as the counter electrode, thanks to its excellent electrocatalytic activity and high electrical conductivity. However, the corrosive and scarce nature of Pt limits its application. As a result, research efforts are focused on exploring alternative counter electrode materials, with MoS2 and its composites being a promising option. Interestingly, MoS2 can also be utilized as the photoanode in DSSCs. Morphology plays a crucial role in device performance, and the electrochemical investigation and stability of the counter electrodes are important considerations.