Hot carrier extraction from 2D semiconductor photoelectrodes

Hot carrier-based energy conversion systems could double the efficiency of conventional solar energy technology or drive photochemical reactions that would not be possible using fully thermalized, cool carriers, but current strategies require expensive multi-junction architectures. Using an unprecedented combination of photoelectrochemical and in situ transient absorption spectroscopy measurements, we demonstrate ultrafast (<50 fs) hot exciton and free carrier extraction under applied bias in a proof-of-concept photoelectrochemical solar cell made from earth-abundant and potentially inexpensive monolayer (ML) MoS2. Our approach facilitates ultrathin 7 A charge transport distances over 1 cm(2) areas by intimately coupling ML-MoS2 to an electron-selective solid contact and a hole-selective electrolyte contact. Our theoretical investigations of the spatial distribution of exciton states suggest greater electronic coupling between hot exciton states located on peripheral S atoms and neighboring contacts likely facilitates ultrafast charge transfer. Our work delineates future two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor design strategies for practical implementation in ultrathin photovoltaic and solar fuel applications.

Automated summary

We demonstrate ultrafast hot exciton and free carrier extraction in a proof-of-concept photoelectrochemical solar cell made from inexpensive monolayer MoS2. Our approach allows for ultrathin charge transport distances and has potential applications in thin photovoltaic and solar fuel systems. This work provides valuable insights for future design strategies of 2D semiconductors.