The hierarchical structures were grown in situ on FTO by a microwave-assisted method.
The hierarchical structures were consisting of nanoparticles and nanosheets.
The hierarchical structures were used as counter electrode without post-treatment.
Co0.85Se and Ni0.85Se showed good catalytic activity for electrolyte regeneration.
The DSSC with the Co0.85Se showed a highest conversion efficiency of 8.58%.