O, S-g-C₃N₄ nanotubes as photovoltaic boosters in quantum dot-sensitized all-weather solar cells: a synergistic approach for enhanced power conversion efficiency in dark-light conditions

All up-to-the-minute solar cells generate highly efficient electricity under sunlight. However, the power outputs are ∼ zero under dark conditions due to the relatively low visible light intensity. We report high-performance quantum dots-sanitized all-weather solar cells (QDSSCs). The devices were based on rationally designed carbon quantum dots (CQDs) decorated oxygen and sulfur co-doped graphitic carbon nitride nanotubes (O, S-g-C₃N₄ NTs)-sensitized TiO₂/long-persistence phosphor (LPP) photoanodes and Pt counter electrodes (CE). O, S-doped-g-C₃N₄ NTs can act as photo-boosters as well as the blocking layer to prevent the backflow of photoexcited electrons and prevent their recombination with the electrolyte. LPPs can store unabsorbed light ranging from visible to infrared light across the photoanode and convert it into green fluorescence, ultimately persistent CQDs/O, S-g-C₃N₄ NTs irradiation, and electricity generation under sunlight illumination in all light-dark environments. The maximum PCE was 18.5% for the device 7-CC/L prepared with a composite of CQDs and O, S-g-C₃N₄ NTs with an optimized weight of 7 mg and 0.2 g, respectively.