Process optimization of dip-coated MWCNTs thin-films: Counter electrode in dye sensitized solar cells

• Published in: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society 2021-11, Vol.98 (11), p.100195, Article 100195
• Main Authors: Mithari, Pooja A., Mendhe, Avinash C., Sankapal, Babasaheb R., Patrikar, Sujata R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Counter electrode; Dip and dry coating; Dye sensitized solar cell; MWCNTs
• ISSN: 0019-4522
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jics.2021.100195

Present research article emphasizes the first report on a simple and cost-effective ‘dip and dry’ coating method to coat MWCNTs at room temperature as a counter electrode towards dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) with ZnO/Eosin-Y as a photoanode. Process optimization through the number of dips (10, 15, 18, and 20) have been performed and compared to standard platinum (Pt) as counter electrode with iodide-triiodide as a liquid electrolyte. Photovoltaic performance through current density-voltage characteristic under standard 1 Sun illumination condition (AM 1.5G, 100 ​mW/cm2) and external quantum efficiency have been well supported which are correlated through structural, surface morphological, and electrochemical studies. Interestingly, DSSCs device with 18 cycles of MWCNTs yields half of the power conversion efficiency than that of Pt device. [Display omitted] •Simple and low-cost ‘dip and dry’ method well controlled via number of dips to coat MWCNTs thin-films to serve as a CE.•MWCNTs thin-films CE are possible replacement of costly platinum (Pt) for DSSCs.•ZnO as a semiconductor material, Eosin-Y as sensitizer, and I-/I3- as an electrolyte with Pt coated FTO to assemble DSSCs.•DSSCs device with an optimum coating of MWCNTs yields half of the power conversion efficiency than that of Pt device.•Investigation and analysis of structural, surface morphology, electrochemical, in correlation with solar cell performance.