Prussian Blue Analogue–Modified MoS₂ Films: A Pt-Free Revolution in DSSC Counter Electrodes

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) promise low cost and semi-transparent operation, but their reliance on platinum counter electrodes (CEs) hinders affordability and scalability. Recent advances in earth-abundant alternatives have spotlighted molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) composites templated with Prussian Blue Analogues (PBAs) to mimic Pt’s catalytic prowess while maintaining high optical clarity. In this post, we’ll examine how Navson Technologies’ precision spin coaters enable uniform PBA-MoS₂ films that rival platinum in performance.

Crafting PBA-MoS₂ Composites

Researchers embed Mn, Ni, or MnNi PBAs within MoS₂ to create a dual-functional composite:

  • Porosity templating: PBAs burn out during annealing, forming interconnected pores.
  • Redox activity: Residual metal sites boost electrocatalytic turnover.

This strategy yields a cost-effective composite that marries high surface area with abundant catalytic centers.

Uniform Film Deposition via Spin Coating

Using Navson’s spin-coating platform, labs deposit the PBA-MoS₂ slurry onto conductive glass with:

  • Tight speed control for repeatable shear alignment
  • Optimized acceleration profiles to prevent cracking
  • Scalable substrate handling for both small research slides and larger modules

A brief anneal step removes the PBA template, leaving behind a smooth, crack-free, porous network ideal for ion transport.

Balancing Transparency and Catalytic Activity

Post-fabrication, these PBA-MoS₂ films exhibit:

  • > 80 % visible-light transmittance, perfect for semi-transparent or bifacial DSSCs
  • Charge-transfer kinetics that approach platinum benchmarks
  • Mechanical robustness to withstand device assembly

Such a balance unlocks new design possibilities without compromising light harvesting.

Device Integration and Performance

When integrated into full DSSC assemblies, PBA-MoS₂ electrodes achieve 90–95 % of the power-conversion efficiency of Pt-based CEs—delivering substantial cost savings while preserving nearly identical performance metrics.

Why Navson Spin Coaters?

Navson Technologies empowers researchers with:

  • Consistent Film Quality: Precision controls eliminate batch-to-batch variability.
  • Flexible Protocols: Easy recipe adjustments for diverse slurry chemistries and substrate sizes.
  • Intuitive Operation: Streamlined UI minimizes training and accelerates experimental throughput.

Conclusion & Next Steps

By harnessing Prussian Blue Analogue–templated MoS₂ and depositing it via Navson’s precision spin-coating platform, you can develop transparent, Pt-free DSSC counter electrodes that achieve >80 % light transmittance and near-platinum electrocatalytic performance. Ready to explore cost-effective, scalable DSSC designs?

Reference
S. Research et al., “PBA-MoS₂ Composites for Transparent Counter Electrodes in DSSCs,” Solar Energy Materials & Solar Cells, 2025. [ScienceDirect]

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