Abstract
A series of mono- and di-branched donor-π-acceptor charge-separated dyes incorporating triphenylamine as a donor and either Dalton’s or benzothiadiazole group as strong acceptors was synthesized and its fundamental properties relevant to the sensitization of nanocrystalline NiO investigated. The dyes exhibited an intense visible absorption band with a strong charge transfer character favorable to NiO sensitization, shifting the electron density from the donor to the acceptor branches. Nevertheless, the computed exciton binding energy is circa twice that of a common literature standard (P1), suggesting a more difficult charge separation. When tested in p-type dye-sensitized solar cells the dyes successfully sensitized NiO electrodes, with photocurrent densities about half than that of the reference compound. Being recombination kinetics comparable, the larger photocurrent generated by P1 agrees with the superior charge separation capability originating by its smaller exciton binding energy.
Highlights
IntroductionWith the increasing demand of clean, secure, cost-effective, and renewable energy sources, the exploitation of solar light as a major source has clearly emerged as a key strategic priority
With the increasing demand of clean, secure, cost-effective, and renewable energy sources, the exploitation of solar light as a major source has clearly emerged as a key strategic priority.Following the first publication of Grätzel and O’Regan in 1991 [1], dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were recognized as a relatively cheap and easy-to-scale approach to direct solar-to-electrical power conversion
We have investigated the new dyes (Figure 1) as p-type sensitizers in p-type DSSC and the results were compared with the reference dye P1
Summary
With the increasing demand of clean, secure, cost-effective, and renewable energy sources, the exploitation of solar light as a major source has clearly emerged as a key strategic priority. Following the first publication of Grätzel and O’Regan in 1991 [1], dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were recognized as a relatively cheap and easy-to-scale approach to direct solar-to-electrical power conversion Their transparency, versatile design and wide color palette offer unique structural and architectural possibilities in the emerging field of building integration [2,3], for example through the realization of photovoltaic windows and façades. With a p-type photoelectrode (p-dye/NiO), affording a tandem cell composed by two serially connected photoactive electrodes, each contributing to the total photovoltage delivered by the cell Applying such a concept, organic-based photovoltaic devices with up to 40% conversion efficiency could be theoretically achievable [5].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
