Electrodeposited CuInSe2 counter electrodes for efficient and stable quantum dot-sensitized solar cells

In this work, we report an electrodeposition technique for fabricating chalcopyrite phase CuInSe2 (CISe) thin films and demonstrate the great prospect of CISe films for serving as efficient counter electrodes (CEs) in quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). The as-prepared CISe materials, directly deposited onto conducting substrates, display long-range uniformity with high crystallinity and nanopillar shapes. A CISe CE-based CdS/CdSe QDSC delivers a considerable power conversion efficiency of 2.92%, coupled with excellent device stability. In contrast to the conventional noble Pt electrodes, CISe CEs exhibit much higher catalytic activity for electrocatalysing polysulfide electrolyte regeneration. This work offers a promising CE with superior catalytic capability for constructing highly efficient and stable QDSCs.