Functionalized graphene quantum dots for dye-sensitized solar cell: Key challenges, recent developments and future prospects. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mahalingam, Savisha; Manap, Abreeza; Omar, Azimah; Low, Foo Wah; Afandi, N.F.; Chia, Chin Hua; Rahim, Nasrudin Abd
• Is Part Of: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews. Volume 144(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: Dye-sensitized solar cells -- Electron transport -- Functionalization -- Graphene quantum dots; AOI Angle of incidence -- CB Conduction band -- CE Counter electrode -- DSSC Dye-sensitized solar cell -- E Electrolyte -- EIS Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy -- FF Fill factor -- FGs Functional groups -- FTIR Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy -- GF Graphene foam -- GO Graphene oxide -- GQDs Graphene quantum dots -- HOMO Highest occupied molecular orbital -- IL Ionic liquid -- IPCE Incident photon to converted electron -- Jsc Short-circuit current -- J-V Current density-voltage -- LUMO Lowest unoccupied molecular orbital -- MO Metal oxide -- NFS-GQDs N, F, S-codoped graphene quantum dots -- NIR Near infra-red -- P Photoelectrode -- PCE Power conversion efficiency -- PEG Polyethylene glycol -- PL Photoluminescence -- PPy Polypyrrole -- PV Photovoltaic -- QDs Quantum dots -- S Sensitizer -- TEM Transmission electron microscopy -- TPD NN'-diphenyl-N-N′-bis(3-methylphenyl)-1, 1′-biphenyl)-4, 4′-diamine (TPD) -- UV–Vis Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy -- Voc Open-circuit voltage -- XPS X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2021.110999
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-0321

Abstract

Abstract: One of the pioneering materials nowadays is graphene quantum dot (GQD), which possesses outstanding electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties followed by less toxicity and robust photoluminescence. These commendable properties allow GQD to be suitable enough to apply in dye-sensitized solar cells, incapacitating current material limits. Nevertheless, pure GQDs have many challenges in reaching their full potential in DSSC. Chemical modification and functionalization tune the physical and chemical properties, driving GQD towards high-performance DSSC. This is an ideal way of modifying GQD because the chemical adsorption of atoms or molecules prevents the destruction of the carbon network without substitutional impurities. Here, we deliver a short outline of progress in understanding GQD functionalization from theoretical/computational perspectives. This chemically modified GQD is then linked with the performance of DSSC. The review also summarizes the electron transport in GQD-DSSC to minimize back-electron transmission recombination at the photoelectrode/electrolyte edge. The impact, outlook, and future prospects of the GQD-DSSC are included as a conclusion in this review. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Interaction of chemical functionalization with GQD. Role of functionalized GQD in various DSSC components such as photoelectrode, sensitizer, electrolyte, and counter electrode. Key challenges for high-performance GQD-DSSC. Electron transport and performance review of GQD-DSSC. Impact and future prospects for GQD-DSSC and recommendations for DSSC-performance enhancement.