Investigation of effect of batch-separation on the micro-energy generation in M.indica L. dye-sensitized Solar Cells

Abstract

The technology of silicon panels has improved over the years with the application of silicon into several material architecture. However, the high cost of the technology has limited its wide adoption. Recent advances have shown that natural materials employed as dye sensitizers for solar cells provide viable alternatives at low cost. This study focused on implementing Mango (Magnifera indica Linn.) leaf dye as dye sensitizer for solar cells. Unlike previous approaches, it employed batch-separated M.indica L. to sensitize two groups of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). Parameters such as short circuit current (Isc), open circuit voltage (Voc), maximum power (Pmax), fill factor (ff), incident photon to conversion efficiency (IPCE) and output efficiency (ƞ) were used to determine the outcome of the M.indica L. DSCs. The doctor blade method and high temperature sintering at 450 °C was used in the preparation of both photoanodes. Photovoltaic results reveal DSCs with a higher efficiency of 4.75 x 10-3 % in crude M.indica L. than 0.07 x 10-3 % for batch separated hexane faction of M.indica L. under same conditions of standard air mass. Remarkably, the hexane M.indica L.DSC recorded larger values of Isc and Voc. The significance of this result is that crude M.indica L DSCs are more affordable, have a facile production process and is an ecologically safe alternatives to silicon solar cells. Although the efficiencies are comparatively low, further research with a solar simulator and co-sensitization with other dyes is recommended for a better outcome.