Nanocellulose-derived graphene quantum dots as bioenergy-enabling materials for dye-sensitized solar cells

Mahalingam, Savisha and Manap, Abreeza and Lau, Kam Sheng and Chia, Chin Hua and Afandi, Nurfanizan and Arith, Faiz and Menon, P Susthitha and Romli, Nurul Atiqah (2026) Nanocellulose-derived graphene quantum dots as bioenergy-enabling materials for dye-sensitized solar cells. Cellulose, 33. pp. 4057-4075. ISSN 0969-0239

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Abstract

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) derived from nanocellulose were prepared with and without sulfuric acid pre-treatment, and applied in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Using nanocellulose, a renewable carbon precursor from wood pulp, supports the development of bio-based materials for bioenergy and solar-to-electric energy conversion. Although acid treatment enhanced −COOH functionalization, excessive oxidation introduced structural defects that increased charge recombination and reduced photovoltaic performance. Acid-free GQDs produced higher photocurrent density than acid-treated samples, indicating better structural preservation and charge transport. However, both systems underperformed relative to conventional N719-only cells due to limited visible-light absorption and energy-level misalignment. Overall, acid-free synthesis offers a more sustainable route to nanocellulose-derived GQDs for environmentally friendly bioenergy and solar cell applications.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Co-sensitizer, Dye-sensitized solar cells, Energy, Graphene quantum dots
Divisions:	Faculty Of Electronics And Computer Technology And Engineering
Depositing User:	Sabariah Ismail
Date Deposited:	13 Jul 2026 07:35
Last Modified:	13 Jul 2026 07:35
URI:	http://eprints.utem.edu.my/id/eprint/30195
Statistic Details:	View Download Statistic

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