Hexagonal Nanoplate-Textured Micro-Octahedron Zn2SnO4: Combined Effects toward Enhanced Efficiencies of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell and Photoreduction of CO2 into Hydrocarbon Fuels

A complex, hexagonal nanoplate-textured micro-octahedron Zn2SnO4, abbreviated as nanoplate/micro-octahedrons, was synthesized with the assistance of L-tryptophan. The generation of this unique architecture was found to undergo two consecutive nucleation processes. In comparison with as-prepared micro-octahedron and atactic particles, the complex architecture proves favorable for enhancement of overall dye-sensitized solar cells light-conversion efficiency via (1) generation of light scattering centers to be in favor of enhancing the light absorption; (2) enhancement of electron transport along the nanoplate; (3) facilitation of electrolyte diffusion as a result of the relatively open structure of the micro-octahedron films. The unique nanoplate/micro-octahedron Zn2SnO4 was also demonstrated to greatly promote the photocatalytic reduction of greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide, CO2) into renewable hydrocarbon fuel (methane, CH4) in the presence of water vapor.