Acta Phys. -Chim. Sin. ›› 2016, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (1): 201-213.doi: 10.3866/PKU.WHXB201512031

• REVIEW • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Progress in Quantum Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells

Hui-Yun WEI,Guo-Shuai WANG,Hui-Jue WU,Yan-Hong LUO,Dong-Mei LI*(),Qing-Bo MENG*()   

  • Received:2015-10-24 Published:2016-01-13
  • Contact: Dong-Mei LI,Qing-Bo MENG E-mail:dmli@iphy.ac.cn;qbmeng@iphy.ac.cn
  • Supported by:
    the National Natural Science Foundation of China(91433205, 51402348, 51421002, 21173260, 11474333, 91233202);National Key Basic Research Program of China (973)(2012CB932903)

Abstract:

Quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) have attracted much attention in the past few years because of the advantages of quantum dots (QDs), including low cost, easy fabrication, size-dependence bandgap, and multiple exciton generation (MEG). The properties of QD sensitizers influence the performance of QDSCs, such as their photoelectric characteristics, preparation methods, surface defects, chemical stability, and their sensitization towards TiO2 photoanodes. This review demonstrates the development of QD sensitizers, including narrow bandgap binary QDs, ternary or quaternary alloyed QDs, and Type-Ⅱ core-shell QDs, especially the preparation methods of colloidal QDs. Furthermore, the deposition and sensitization methods of QDs are introduced in detail, particularly bifunctional-assisted self-assembly deposition. Meanwhile, methods to improve electron injection efficiency and reduce charge recombination are also summarized. Finally, a brief introduction is provided to the development of electrolytes and counter electrodes in QDSCs.

Key words: Quantum dot-sensitized solar cell, Inorganic semiconductor quantum dot, Colloidal quantum dot, Bifunctional-assisted self assembly, Surface treatment