Multifunctional Photovoltaic Window Layers for Solar-Driven Catalytic Conversion of CO 2 : The Case of CIGS Solar Cells
Abstract
Using a fast and simple one-step electrochemical method, we developed transparent and conductive ZnO nanoporous layers encapsulating molecular catalysts, showcasing dual functionality as a window layer for thin-film solar cells and a catalytic layer for solar-to-fuel conversion. As a proof of concept, tetra-ammonium substituted Co phthalocyanine (CoPcTA) was encapsulated into the window layer of high-efficiency Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells demonstrating photoelectrochemical (PEC) reduction of CO2 into CO with a selectivity of 93% and current densities up to ca. 7 mA cm-2 at −1.7 V vs SCE under 1 sun irradiation, which corresponds to a turnover number (TON) above 100,000 and a turnover frequency (TOF) of 10 s-1 after 3h. The simplicity and versatility of this approach make the nanoporous catalytic ZnO layer not only easily adaptable to different high-efficiency solar cells but also pave the way for flexible testing of diverse molecular catalysts for CO2 conversion into diverse, valuable fuels.
Origin | Files produced by the author(s) |
---|