Enhanced photovoltaic performance of Sb2S3-sensitized solar cell using a novel Ni-4 mercaptophenol hybrid interfacial layer

•Sb2S3-sensitized solar cells with a novel Ni-4 mercaptophenol (Ni4MP) interlayer was fabricated.•Ni4MP interlayer was deposited by combined atomic layer/molecular layer deposition methods.•Effect of Ni4MP deposition cycles on the efficiency of the solar cells was investigated.•Ni4MP insertion reduced the charge recombination and enhanced the efficiency.•Best cell exhibited a power conversion efficiency of 2.79% under 1 sun illumination.