Nano-film electrodes are more economic than conventional mono-lithic or tandem cell PV systems, easier to prepare and more environmentally friendly. For maximum benefit, medium band gap 2.4-1.8 eV thin film (nano-scale) semiconductor electrodes are needed, like metal-chalcogenides MX{M=Cu, Cd, Zn, etc., X=S, Se, Te}. Such electrodes show low conversion efficiency and stability under PEC conditions, and need to be modified. Different techniques enhanced conversion efficiency up to 8%. Higher efficiencies (>15%) and stabilities for nano-film electrodes are necessary. A new technique has been developed here, which involves coating thin composite matrices (~80 nm) to electrode surface. The composite involves stable electro-active materials (metalloporphyrines), embedded inside stable polymer matrices (polyethylene or polysiloxane). By this method, unprecedented conversion efficiencies (~15% for CuSe films) and (~18% for CuS films) have been obtained. The modified electrodes were stable under PEC conditions. The coating affected the band edge positions of the electrodes. The metalloporphyrin catalyzed charge transfer across the solid/liquid junction and prevented accumulation of holes in the space charge layer. Film electrodes were protected from photo-corrosion. Results will be presented together with a model.

Conference Title

ISTANBUL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PROGRES IN APPLIED SCIENCE 2017

Conference Country

Turkey

Conference Date

Jan. 4, 2017 - Jan. 6, 2017

Conference Sponsor

PROMECH-

Additional Info

Conference Website