Hybrid of Graphene based on quaternary Cu(2)ZnNiSe(4) –WO(3) Nanorods for Counter Electrode in Dye-sensitized Solar Cell Application

A novel nanohybrid of graphene-based Cu(2)ZnNiSe(4) with WO(3) nanorods (G-CZNS@W) was successfully synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method to use as a counter electrode (CE) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The characterization technique confirmed the structural and morphologies of the G-CZNS@W nanohybrid, which could show rapid electrons transfer pathway through the WO(3) nanorods. Moreover, the as-fabricated G-CZNS@W nanohybrid exhibited synergetic effect between G-CZNS and a WO(3) nanorod, which could affect the electrocatalytic activity towards triiodide reaction. The nanohybrid exhibits an excellent photovoltaic performance of 12.16%, which is higher than that of the standard Pt electrode under the same conditions. The G-CZNS@W nanohybrid material as CE thus offers a promising low-cost Pt-free counter electrode for DSSC.