Multilayered 2D Ti3C2TX-MXene: Best Interfacial Passivating Agent for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with VOC Approaching 1 V

Abstract

Harnessing solar energy through advanced photovoltaic technologies requires addressing persistent challenges, such as high recombination rates, surface defects, limited electron transport efficiency, and interface incompatibilities. This study examines the impact of interfacial passivation strategies using multilayered Ti3C2TX-MXene, TiCl4, toluene, and chlorobenzene on improving dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) performance. This strategy provides superior surface uniformity, reduced charge-transfer resistance, and enhanced charge transport, surpassing conventional doping and heterostructure formation methods. This innovative passivation technique significantly improved the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.83% in FTO/c-TiO2/MX-TNRs/N719/(I-/I3-)/Carbon-structured champion DSSC, compared to 3.42% for the FTO/c-TiO2/B-TNRs/N719/(I-/I3-)/Carbon-structured DSSCs. The enhanced performance of DSSCs is corroborated by a 57% reduction in the average surface roughness (Ra) and an 82% decrease in charge-transfer resistance (RCT). Reduced Ra minimizes recombination sites and improves light absorption, while lower RCT extends the electron lifetime and enhances charge transport, effectively reducing recombination rates. This approach demonstrates significant potential of innovative passivation strategies in DSSC, achieving a VOC > 1 V. © 2025 American Chemical Society.