Nickel Telluride Quantum Dots as a Counter Electrode for an Efficient Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell

Transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have recently emerged as highly appealing and efficient options for electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), effectively substituting the scarce and expensive metal platinum (Pt). In this work, nickel telluride (NiTe 2 ) quantum dots (QDs) were effectively used as a counter electrode for DSSCs by providing a sustainable alternative to the scarce platinum (Pt). The DSSC based on NiTe 2 QDs shows a power conversion efficiency (η) of ∼8.06%, which is comparatively better than exfoliated NiTe 2 (η ≈ 6.58%). The density functional theory (DFT) was employed to comprehensively understand the underlying mechanisms involved in the charge transfer between the QDs and the electrolyte species. The outcomes demonstrated the benefits of creating diverse structural configurations designed to enhance interfacial transport, ensure an even distribution of active facets, and improve the electrocatalytic performance in the DSSC process.