Fabrication of low cost Cu2CdSnS4 based counter electrode for dye sensitized solar cells

Conventional dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) use platinum as counter electrode. Among other factors, the high cost of Pt is an impediment to the large scale application of DSSCs. Here the use of Cu₂CdSnS₄ (CCdTS) electrode prepared by an inexpensive solution based process as a possible alternative to Pt has been explored. Extensive phase and microstructural characterization of CCdTS nanoparticles was done. Current-Voltage characteristics of the DSSCs with CCdTS counter electrode were measured. The device performance was interpreted using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurement of the cells.