Spatially Resolved Current-Voltage Measurements—Evidence for Nonuniform Photocurrents in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Abstract

Spatial current distributions of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) mediated with a cobalt polypyridine complex are described. By rastering a laser over the surface of a DSSC while measuring the short-circuit current, a spatial current image is obtained. Experiments that highlight the potential uses of this technique are discussed. First, intentional damage inflicted on the photoanode and cathode of the DSSC are visualized with the scanning technique and second, the effects of increased pressure of the cell holder clamps are discussed and shown to warrant further investigation. Finally, other variations of the scanning technique are suggested.