MWCNT/mesoporous carbon nanofibers composites prepared by electrospinning and silica template as counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells

The mesoporous multi-walled carbon nanotube (CNT)-embedded carbon nanofibers (CNT/Meso-ACNF) were prepared through various steps of electrospinning, stabilization, carbonization, SiO2 template etching, and activation. The CNT/Meso-ACNF showed excellent mesoporous structure, excellent distribution of CNT, and good electrical conductivity in employing as catalysts of counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Its mesoporous structure represented surface area of 562 m2/g with average mesopore diameter of 27.32 nm and its electrical conductivity increased to 0.19 S/cm. The overall conversion efficiency of CNT/Meso-ACNF increased to 6.35% with a little higher than Pt counter electrode because its characteristics promotes the electron and ion transfer, decreases the resistance of charge transfer, and increases the contact area between liquid electrolyte and CNT/Meso-ACNF.

► The CNT/Meso-ACNF was prepared by electrospinning, template etching and thermal process. ► The CNT/Meso-ACNF shows both mesoporous structure and high electrical conductivity. ► The overall conversion efficiency of CNT/Meso-ACNF counter electrode increases to 6.35%.