Power generation with PCM based Dye-sensitized solar cell using different dyes – An experimental study

Abstract

The continuously rising demand for harnessing solar energy has developed solar power generation devices. The dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC), a third-generation energy device, has paid more attention due to its lightweight, flexibility, and low manufacturing cost. In the present experimental study, one artificial dye of N719 ruthenium and two natural dyes of Hibiscus and betanin beetroot were used to fabricate the DSSC. The DSSCs were tested with and without phase change material (PCM), and generated powers were compared. n-octadecane was used as the PCM in the present experimental study. The ambient temperature and solar irradiation (750–1010) W/m2 have an impact on the temperature of PCM-based DSSC. The maximum power obtained from PCM-based DSSC initially increased and then decreased due to the rise in temperature of the PCM composites. Under the actual ambient temperature and varying sun radiation circumstances, the DSSC’s efficiency was measured. The photoelectric conversion efficiency gradually increased from 34 °C to 42 °C and then decreased due to the decrease in the durability of the DSSC. It was observed that in the DSSC with PCM, the photoelectric conversion efficiency varied between 34 °C and 48.6 °C. It was also observed that 48.6 °C was the best maintained DSSC temperature. The use of a PCM to control DSSC temperature proved successful in retaining DSSC performance. Under ambient temperature (28–34 °C), PCM revealed that the DSSC temperature (≤48.6 °C) stayed within the intended temperature range.