Solution-processed relatively pure MoS2 nanoparticles in-situ grown on graphite paper as an efficient FTO-free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

A low-cost and efficient MoS2/graphite paper (GP) counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is first fabricated by a simple and effective solution processed route. Photo-electric conversion efficiency of 6.48% is obtained for the DSSC adopting MoS2/GP, better than the device (6.22%) employing platinized F-doped tin oxide (Pt/FTO) electrode. Because highly conductive GP is performed as a substrate, and the mechanical adhesion and electrical connection between the MoS2 film and the GP substrate are strong, the series resistance of MoS2/GP is much smaller than that of Pt/FTO. A comparable charge transfer resistance of MoS2/GP to Pt/FTO is found to be another factor for the better performance. Due to the MoS2 prepared here possessing relatively high crystallinity and firmly being anchored on the GP substrate, MoS2/GP as well exhibits high stability. Hence, excellent electrochemical activity, high stability, facile preparation and low material cost of the MoS2/GP electrode offer it a promising potential for large-scale production. (C) 2017 Published by Elsevier Ltd.