Efficient energy conversion with n-CuInSe₂/polysulphide photoelectrochemical solar cells

A polycrystalline n-CuInSe₂-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) solar cell employing polysulphide redox electrolyte has been fabricated. The authors present results which show that suitable modification of the polysulphide electrolyte alone can lead to efficient solar energy conversion. The polysulphide electrolyte modification has been carried out with copper (Cu⁺) and indium (In³⁺) ions. Both these ions are native ingredients of CuInSe₂. This modification has led to a conversion efficiency of up to approximately 11.2%-one of the highest efficiencies known for CuInSe₂-based PEC solar cells.