Disruption of a hydrogen-bond network at an Si/PNMPy/electrolyte interface for accelerated ion transfer in solar rechargeable devices

Abstract

Si/poly(N-methylpyrrole) (PNMPy)-based two-electrode solar rechargeable devices using HClO₄ as the electrolyte exhibit 3-fold and 7-fold higher current densities during photo-charging and dark-discharging processes than does the corresponding H₂SO₄-based device. This enhancement originates from a ClO₄⁻-induced disruption of the interfacial hydrogen-bond network, where this disruption can significantly accelerate ion transfer at the PNMPy/HClO₄ interface.