Cotton-derived carbon fibers and MoS2 hybrids for efficient I3− reduction in bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract

In light of recent advancements, a novel platinum-free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) has been developed utilizing hierarchical MoS₂ structures in conjunction with bio-derived carbon materials. Carbon fibers produced from cotton and molybdenum-doped carbon rods synthesized from melamine were fabricated through a straightforward hydrothermal process, which significantly enhanced both electrocatalytic activity and stability. The resulting counter electrodes exhibited notably low charge transfer resistances of 9.45 Ω and 6.43 Ω, thus facilitating efficient redox reactions. Consequently, DSSCs incorporating these materials achieved remarkable power conversion efficiencies of 7.04 % and 7.58 %, surpassing traditional platinum-based counter electrodes, which recorded an efficiency of 7.50 %. Furthermore, the high optical transmittance of these materials renders them suitable for bifacial DSSCs, broadening their potential applications. This research underscores the promise of bio-inspired carbon composites as sustainable and efficient alternatives in solar energy technologies, offering an environmentally friendly substitute for conventional noble metal electrodes.