TiO2/MoS2-rGO composite Photoanodes: A Path to improved electron transport and photovoltaic efficiency in Dye-Sensitized solar cells

Abstract

Improving the efficiency and viability of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) depends largely on addressing the material limitations of key components. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is widely regarded as the best-performing semiconductor for DSSC photoanodes, yet its binary composition imposes constraints that prevent DSSCs from achieving their full potential. In this study, we demonstrate that incorporating two-dimensional (2D) materials into TiO₂ in the form of a nanocomposite significantly enhances its performance. Specifically, we investigate the application of a TiO₂/MoS₂-rGO nanocomposite as a photoanode material in DSSCs. While this composite has previously shown promise as an electrode material for supercapacitors and batteries, we reveal its substantial potential for DSSCs, particularly in improving the charge transport properties of bare TiO₂ through the addition of MoS₂ nanosheets, and enhancing porosity by introducing rGO into its lattice. Our results show an impressive 41% increase in efficiency, from 6.6% for pure TiO₂-based DSSCs to 9.3% for DSSCs incorporating the TiO₂/MoS₂-rGO photoanode. Comprehensive studies and analyses were conducted to explore various aspects of the material and device, establishing TiO₂/MoS₂-rGO as a promising alternative to bare TiO₂ in DSSCs.