Performance Of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells Research Articles

The effect of the introduction of internal acceptor and the variation of π-spacer groups in carbazole-based organic dyes on the photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells: a DFT study

The effect of the introduction of internal acceptor and the variation of π-spacer groups in carbazole-based organic dyes on the photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells: a DFT study

Enhanced performance of Mg and La co-doped TiO2(98%)−ZrO2(2%) photoanode for dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract This study explores the effects of magnesium (Mg) and lanthanum (La) doping on the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) utilizing TiO2(98%)−ZrO2(2%) (TZ, TZM, and TZL) photoanodes. The photoanodes were fabricated using a spin-coating sol–gel method, followed by calcination at 400°C. The structural, morphological, crystallographic, and optical properties of the proposed photoanode composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. The crystallite sizes of the synthesized thin films varied from 21.16 to 59.04 nm for the TZ, TZM, and TZL compositions. The current–voltage measurements of DSSCs based on TZL8 photoanode, cobalt sulfide-doped graphene counter electrode, and N719 dye revealed the highest efficiency of nearly 5.052%. The assembled DSSCs exhibited an open-circuit voltage of 0.74 V, a short-circuit current density of 9.964 mA/cm2, and a fill factor of 0.685. The enhancement in open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current density could be attributed to the improved electronic and microstructures of the proposed photoanodes.

Looped In Lupus-An Unusual Manifestation

The efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) heavily relies on the structural and morphological characteristics of the photoanode materials [1]. This study investigates the effects of Nitrogen on TiO2 and the subsequent anchoring with two different Azo dyes RP and VC, to evaluate their impact on DSSC performance [2]. A comprehensive analysis was conducted using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to study the surface morphology of pure TiO2, Nitrogen TiO2 (N-TiO2), and N-TiO2 composites with RP and VC Azo dyes [3]. Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) provided insight into the elemental composition and confirmed the successful incorporation of nitrogen into the TiO2 structure. The SEM images reveal significant morphological differences between the pure and N-TiO2 samples, as well as changes induced by the azo dye anchoring [4]. The Nitrogen incorporation was found to increase surface roughness and enhance dye adsorption [5]. A comparative analysis of the N-TiO2 composite with RP and VC azo dyes highlights variations in dye distribution and surface coverage, which may influence light absorption and charge transfer efficiency. The findings provide valuable insights into the design of optimized photoanode materials, aiming to improve the photovoltaic performance of DSSCs [6].

Enhancing photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells through TiO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite photoanodes for improved charge carrier management

This study explores the enhancement of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) through the modification of porous TiO2 photoanodes by incorporating two-dimensional graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) synthesized from urea. The combination of wide-bandgap TiO2 with narrow-bandgap g-C₃N₄ extends the optical response range of the TiO2 heterostructure composites from ultraviolet to visible light. The introduction of g-C3N4 with TiO2 to form a heterojunction significantly boosts the photovoltaic performance of the device by minimizing charge recombination at the photoanode-electrolyte interface. Upon optimizing the g-C3N4 loading, a peak power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.79 % is achieved, representing an impressive 42 % improvement over the pristine TiO2-based device. This enhancement is primarily attributed to the efficient separation of photogenerated charge carriers, facilitated by the type II band alignment between g-C3N4 and TiO2. This alignment, enabled by favorable conduction and valence band offsets, accelerates the separation of photogenerated carriers and prolongs electron lifetime.

Eco-friendly synthesis of Nd³⁺-doped Eu₂O₃ nanoparticles for enhanced dye-sensitized solar cells utilizing oxalis Corniculata leaf extract

An environmentally friendly synthesis of Nd³⁺-doped Eu₂O₃ nanoparticles (NPs) was developed using Oxalis Corniculata leaf (OCL) extract to enhance the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The as-synthesized NPs were annealed at 600 °C to improve their crystallinity. X-ray diffraction and field-emission scanning electron microscopy revealed high crystallinity and a sub-100 nm spherical morphology. Annealing reduced the NP size from ∼85 nm to ∼45 nm and decreased the bandgap from 4.97 eV to 4.62 eV, enhancing low-energy photon absorption. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy showed changes in the chemical bonding environment, with a higher presence of dangling bonds in the as-prepared NPs compared to the 600 °C-annealed NPs, likely due to the OCL extract. Photoluminescence spectra confirmed strong red emission peaks at 580 nm and 612 nm, with a slight reduction in the full width at half maximum of the electric dipole transition after annealing. Integrating these NPs into TiO₂ matrices in DSSCs improved power conversion efficiency to 8.58%, outperforming both as-prepared NPs (6.88%) and bare TiO₂ cells (5.05%). This green synthesis approach offers a sustainable pathway for slightly enhancing performance of photovoltaic devices, with additional potential for UV-shielding applications when incorporated into PVA films.

Performance of dye-sensitized solar cells of perovskite sodium bismuth titanate layer and studying the effect of Fe-doped on the photovoltaic properties

Performance of dye-sensitized solar cells of perovskite sodium bismuth titanate layer and studying the effect of Fe-doped on the photovoltaic properties

Enhancement effect of biomass-derived Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs) on the performance of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)

Corn stover, an agricultural waste, was used to prepare nitrogen self-doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) through a simple hydrothermal method with only water at near room temperature for the first time. The surface, electrochemical, and photovoltaic characteristics of CQDs doped TiO2 in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were thoroughly and systematically examined. The average diameter of blue-fluorescence CQDs measured by a high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) was 4.63 ± 0.87 nm, which consisted of polar functional groups. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy of the biomass-derived CQDs, determined by the cyclic voltammetry (CV) test, were, −5.48 eV and −3.89 eV, respectively. The negative shift of flat band potential (Vfb) in CQDs incorporated photoanode implies the fermi level shifted upward. Experimental results revealed that the improved performance of DSSCs was due to charge transport enhancement and separation, which resulted in the improved energy level configuration between TiO2, CQDs, and electrolytes. In this regard, the CQDs serve as a mediator that enables charge carrier transport without hindrance. In this study, CQDs added to TiO2 + N719, increased short circuit current density (JSC) and power conversion efficiency (PCE) value by ∼26.00 % (10.13 to 12.69 mA/cm2) and 27.20 % (4.78 % to 6.08 %), respectively.

Enhancing quasi solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell performance using mixed-polymer gel electrolytes: the influence of low and high molar weight polymers

Enhancing quasi solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell performance using mixed-polymer gel electrolytes: the influence of low and high molar weight polymers

Navigating the Frontier Role of Electrolyte Interfaces in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Technology

Recent advances in solar cell technology have been motivated by new materials and inventive engineering techniques. Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are becoming more widely recognized as a possible alternative for sustainable energy. Optimizing electrolytes is one of the most important variables impacting their effectiveness and durability. The electrolyte interface is critical to optimize charge separation, ion transport, and diffusion ensuring device stability and efficiency. The present investigation focuses on enhancing interface stability and investigating innovative electrolyte compositions to improve DSSC performance for sustainability in solar energy applications. Despite progress, obstacles remain in presenting core principles and research approaches in DSSC technology. Continued research is required to overcome these limitations and fully realize the potential of DSSCs in sustainable energy solutions.

Enhanced Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Using Nitrogen-Titanium Dioxide Composites and Optimized Azo Dye Mixtures

In response to the increasing global energy demand, developing cost-effective and reliable renewable energy sources is crucial. Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) have emerged as a promising alternative due to their low production cost, flexibility, and capability to operate under diffuse sunlight. This study aims to enhance the efficiency of DSSCs by incorporating Nitrogen-Titanium Dioxide (N-TiO2) composites synthesized via the Sol-Gel method [1]. The DSSCs were constructed using N-TiO2 composites in conjunction with VC, RP, and RM azo dyes. Nitrogen in the TiO2 matrix effectively reduced the band gap, leading to improved light absorption. The presence of Nitrogen dopants is expected to introduce additional energy levels within the TiO2 bandgap, enhancing light absorption and charge carrier separation, which are crucial factors for improved DSSC performance [2,3]. The current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of the DSSCs revealed significant variations in key performance metrics, including short circuit current (Isc), fill factor, and power conversion efficiency. Specifically, DSSCs utilizing N-TiO2 with VC-RP dye mixture achieved a higher efficiency of 0.349%, an Isc of 0.85 mA, and a fill factor of 44.59%, with Rs and Rsh values of 328.13Ω and 1637.18Ω, respectively [4]. These results underscore the potential of N-TiO2 composites, particularly when paired with optimized dye mixtures, to significantly enhance the electronic properties and overall efficiency of DSSCs.

Multi-synergy enabling Ni-doped MoS2@N-doped carbon composite as versatile catalysts toward hydrogen production and photovoltaics

Construction of efficient non-precious catalyst with desired chemical composition and well-defined nanostructure is of great essential to enhance the kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and triiodide (I3−) reduction reaction (IRR), which is conducive to promote the development of green hydrogen production and obtain impressive photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Herein, ZIF-8 derived N-doped carbon (NC) wrapped with two-dimensional Ni-doped MoS2 nanosheets (Ni–MoS2@NC) are elaborately designed. The catalytic activity of Ni–MoS2@NC for HER and IRR are significantly improved by modifying electronic structure through heteroatom doping. The optimized Ni–MoS2@NC has lower overpotential of 122 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in comparison with counterpart. Meanwhile, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of DSSCs based on Ni–MoS2@NC CE catalyst is comparable to that of Pt. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation is used to unveil the mechanism of Ni–MoS2@NC for alkaline HER and IRR, namely, the multi-synergy of various sites endows Ni–MoS2@NC with appropriate Gibbs free energy for H∗ adsorption and water dissociation energy, while the top and interfacial S sites of Ni–MoS2@NC are responsible for the adsorption and activation of I3−. Our work provides a feasible route to design efficient catalysts in the field of energy conversion and understand mechanism.

Designing ferrocenyl thiophene chalcones as light harvester candidates for dye-sensitized solar cells

In dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), the dye (or photosensitizer) plays a crucial role. It absorbs light and generates electrons, which affects the efficiency of converting sunlight into electricity. While Ru(II)-based dyes are common in DSSCs, their scarcity, susceptibility to degradation, and limited absorption range pose challenges for wider adoption. Three new ferrocenyl-thiophene compounds have been synthesized, all sharing the same core structure, but the distinctive difference is the existence of methyl group (CH3) and bromine (Br) substituents attached to the thiophene ring. Using the structures obtained from spectroscopic and X-ray crystallography analyzes, the chemical reactivity of these compounds is theoretically evaluated. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were employed to investigate the redox properties and electron transport mechanisms of the material. The bromination process demonstrates its efficacy for dye applications, while the methyl attachment to the thiophene ring enhances anchoring toward TiO₂, contributing to improved performance in DSSCs. Overall, the compound featuring bromine exhibited a lower band gap compared to the others, resulting in higher efficiency in solar simulation analysis, nearly double that of the methyl-containing compound, and significantly surpassing the plain thiophene compound. EIS analysis revealed that, among the three ferrocenyl chalcone dyes, the bromine-containing compound exhibited the highest charge recombination resistance and longest electron lifetime.

Exploring the potential of SnSe/PANi composite counter electrodes for improved efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells

This paper investigates the synthesis and characterization of novel counter electrodes (CEs) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), focusing on composite polyaniline (PANi) nanofibers integrated with tin selenide (SnSe). Three CEs, namely SnSe, PANi, and their composite, were prepared via facile hydrothermal and cyclic voltammetry methods and compared with a standard platinum (Pt) CE. The efficiencies obtained were 4.20 %, 5.63 %, 8.39 %, and 7.72 % for SnSe, PANi, SnSe/PANi, and Pt CEs, respectively. The improved efficiencies, particularly in the case of the SnSe/PANi composite, were attributed to increased short-circuit density of the composite sample. The materials and devices prepared in this study are characterized using various methods including FESEM, TEM, XRD, Raman and FTIR spectroscopies, EIS, Tafel, OCVD, IPCE and etc to support our proposed CE structure. Our findings demonstrate the promising potential of SnSe/PANi composite CEs in enhancing the performance and affordability of DSSCs.

Submicron-scale Au-decorated TiO2 mesoporous spheres for enhanced photon harvesting in DSSCs through near-field enhancement, light scattering, and dye loading

Light harvesting materials are crucial for capturing the sunlight in a device such as a solar cell for better efficiency. In this study, we developed high surface area, submicron-sized TiO2 spheres (MTS) incorporated with anisotropic Au nanoparticles (Au_MTS) to create highly light-absorbing photoanodes for enhanced dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) efficiency. The high surface area of MTS (∼125 m2/g) allows for increased dye-loading, while their submicron size (150–300 nm) provides superior light-scattering capabilities for significantly enhancing the photoanode’s light absorption. Furthermore, incorporating of anisotropic Au nanoparticles enables broadband surface plasmon resonance (SPR) coupling, synergistically boosting photon harvesting in the Au_MTS photoanodes. The interconnected tiny TiO2 nanoparticle network in MTS supports charge carrier generation and transport, providing ample sites for dye adsorption and efficient electron pathways. Au_MTS with varying amounts of Au nanoparticles synthesized by a greener microwave-assisted synthesis method and DSSC devices were fabricated and compared with devices made from pristine MTS and P25 nanoparticles. The optimal Au_MTS device, containing ∼1.3 wt% Au nanoparticles, achieved a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of ∼7.7%, representing improvements of ∼40% and ∼60% over pristine MTS (PCE of ∼5.2%) and P25 nanoparticles (PCE of ∼4.71%), respectively. Overall, this work demonstrates the effectiveness of plasmonic mesoporous photoanodes in enhancing DSSC performance through improved photo response, light scattering, and dye loading.

Introduction of Ti3+ within TiO2 to improve photoanode electron transport performance in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs)

TiO2 is the most commonly used material as the photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). However, it has drawbacks such as insufficient light absorption and severe electron recombination, which limit the development of DSSCs. In order to improve the electron transport properties of TiO2, this study synthesizes TiO2 with exposed (001) crystal faces and generates Ti3+ on the surface using titanium isopropoxide (TTIP) as the titanium source at the interface of isopropanol and water. The results show that this new type of TiO2 has the advantages of a lower electron recombination rate and a higher dye loading capacity. When applied to DSSCs, it significantly improves the electron transport performance of the photoanode, achieving a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.82 %. Compared with the regular photoanode, the PCE enhancement rate is 22.7 %. These studies enhance the application potential of TiO2 in DSSCs and provide a feasible solution for the development of efficient solar cells.

2-Axis controlled spray pyrolysis deposition device for Dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC)

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are a promising alternative to traditional silicon-based photovoltaic systems due to their efficient light-to-electricity conversion. A critical component of DSSCs is titanium dioxide (TiO2), responsible for converting light into electrical energy. Spray pyrolysis was one of the methods for fabricating TiO2 thin films. However, there are several drawbacks, such as challenges in particle size control, maintaining homogeneity of the thin film, and scalability issues during the deposition process. Modifications to the manufacturing process are necessary to achieve optimal performance in DSSCs, particularly with the thickness of the cell. This work focuses on the 2-axis spray pyrolysis process, a cost-effective way to create thin and thick films. In particular, it focuses on TiO2 thin films utilized as working electrodes in DSSC applications. The method was performed at different motor speeds, namely MS80, MS100, and MS120. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum showed that the dominance of the anatase phase appeared in an MS100. The UV-Vis results depict that the band gap value is 3.02 eV. The surface profiler analysis indicates that sample MS100 has an optimal thickness of 15.17 µm. The DSSC achieved 9.4% efficiency with sample MS100. This finding demonstrates that using 2-axis controlled spray pyrolysis deposition improves DSSC performance with an optimal motor speed.

Novel unsymmetrical squaraine dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells: Synthesis, characterization, and comparative photovoltaic performance of USQI-NPh2Me2 and USQI-OMe

This study presents the synthesis, characterization, and photovoltaic performance of two novel unsymmetrical squaraine dyes, USQI-NPh2Me2 and USQI-OMe, engineered for application in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). These chromophores were functionalized with distinct electron-donating groups, di-p-tolylamine for USQI-NPh2Me2 and methoxy for USQI-OMe. Their molecular structures were confirmed through FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry. Comprehensive photophysical and electrochemical studies were conducted to fine-tune the HOMO and LUMO energy levels of both dyes, optimizing charge injection into the TiO2 conduction band and facilitating dye regeneration with the iodolyte (I₃⁻/I⁻) redox mediator. USQI-NPh2Me2 exhibited a strong absorption maximum at 661 nm, achieving a high short-circuit current density (JSC) of 13.17 mA/cm2, an open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.71V, and an overall efficiency of 7.01 %. USQI-OMe, with its absorption peak at 651 nm, reached a JSC of 11.88 mA/cm2, a higher VOC of 0.72 V, but a slightly lower overall efficiency of 6.41 %. Both dyes demonstrated reduced aggregation on the TiO2 surface, contributing to enhanced DSSCs performance. A Comparative analysis revealed that USQI-NPh2Me2 exhibits higher efficiency, while USQI-OMe provided a greater voltage output, highlighting the influence of electron-donating groups on photovoltaic properties. These findings provide valuable insights into structure-property relationships in unsymmetrical squaraine dyes, paving the way for future DSSCs chromophore design and optimization.

Preparation of the scattering layer based on SnO2 nanocrystals for dye sensitized solar cell application

Abstract In this work, SnO2 paste was prepared based on (0.1 and 0.12 g) of SnO2 nanoparticles. The SnO2 film was deposited using Screen printing and doctor blade techniques, which it employed as scattering layer in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC). The crystal structure, morphology, and thermal stability of the paste were investigated using XRD, FE-SEM, and TGA techniques. The DSSC parameters were achieved to examining the effect of scattering layer on performance of DSSC. The results showed a crystalline structure predominantly composed of rutile SnO2 crystals arranged in a tetragonal pattern, with individual crystallites measuring approximately 100 nanometers in size. SEM images depicted the surface of SnO2 resembling a sponge with fine pores facilitating dye adsorption and electron mobility. Moreover, a decrease in average particle size was observed with increasing dye concentration, with the average grain size of SnO2 particles being below 100 nanometers at lower dye concentrations. TGA measurements indicated a phase transition occurring around 400 °C.

The Effect of Indium Tin Oxide Nanoparticles (ITO NPs) Incorporated with ZnO NPs based on Structural, Optical and Flexible Dye Sensitized Solar Cells (FDSSCs) Application.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) doped with indium tin oxide nanoparticles (ITO NPs) on polymer-based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The ZnO NPs and ITO NPs were synthesized using the sol-gel and co-precipitation methods, respectively. They were then characterized and applied for dye-sensitized solar cells of a polymer-based substrate. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis revealed the presence of hexagonal structures and small spherical nanoparticles. The mean diameter of the ZnO NPs was found to be 15.22 ± 0.11 nm, while the ZnO NPs doped with ITO NPs (ZnO NPs/ITO NPs) had a mean diameter of 14.54 ± 0.16 nm. The effects of the ITO NPs on the ZnO NPs were evaluated, and it was found that these ITO NPs enhanced the performance of the flexible electrode DSSCs. After the addition of ITO NPs, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the ZnO NPs was boosted to be three times higher than that of the ZnO NPs DSSCs without ITO NPs. Similarly, the ultraviolet (UV) band exhibited a red shift, resulting in a lower band gap and reduced charge transfer resistance, which can enhance the PCE of the DSSCs. The polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/indium tin oxide (ITO) (PET/ITO) substrate conductive polymer showed positive outcomes for DSSCs. The PCE value for ZnO NPs was 2.198 ± 0.14%, while for ZnO NPs/ITO NPs, it was 6.680 ± 0.12%. This work achieved remarkable and competitive performance when compared to a solid (indium tin oxides/glass)-based substrate.

Enhanced performance of novel green synthesized CuS nanostructures decorated with Rh and Pd nanoparticles for energy generation and gas sensing applications

This article investigates the utilization of copper sulfide (CuS) based nanomaterials functionalized with rhodium (Rh) and palladium (Pd) nanoparticles for gas sensing and energy generation applications. CuS nanoparticles, known for their unique properties, were combined with Rh and Pd nanoparticles to enhance hydrogen (H2) gas sensing capabilities. Gas sensing experiments revealed that CuS/Rh/Pd nanocomposites exhibited the highest sensing response of 58.33% to H2, indicating the significant improvement in gas sensing properties due to the combined presence of Rh and Pd nanoparticles in CuS matrices. Moreover, temperature-dependent responses provided insights into optimal operating conditions for effective gas sensing with CuS-based nanocomposites. Comprehensive characterization studies including XPS, Raman, and morphology analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of CuS/Rh/Pd nanomaterials with high purity and desirable structural properties. Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) performance studies demonstrated that CuS/Rh/Pd nanocomposites enhanced the efficiency by minimizing light over-absorption and improving photoanode stability. Overall, this study highlighted the potential of metal nanoparticle-decorated CuS nanocomposites for advanced gas sensing and energy generation applications, paving the way for the development of highly sensitive and efficient gas sensors and solar energy conversion technologies.