Dye-sensitized Solar Cell Technology Research Articles

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.

Photovoltaic Performance of Naphthol Blue Black Complexes and their Band Gap Energy

Along with the depletion of petroleum-based fuels, the development of renewable energy resources is a must. One of them is through DSSC (Dye Sensitized Solar Cells) technology, which has a dye sensitizer and semiconductor as the main components. The aim of this research is to investigating the photovoltaic performance of complexes series from metals (Mn(II); Fe(II); Co(II) and Ni(II)) and naphthol blue-black (NB) as a ligand. This investigation also successfully revealed factors that are highly influencing photovoltaic efficiency, namely the band-gap energy and the conductance of metal-NB complexes. The Fe(II)-NB complex has performed the highest photovoltaic activity as a result of the d-d electron transition and MLCT (Metal to Ligand Change Transfer) character which are covered by vivid color from the ligand. The bonding between metal and ligand was shown at a wavenumber of 316.33 cm-1 for M-N bonding and 486.06 cm-1 for M-O bonding. Fe(II)-NB complex had the narrowest band gap energy which is 5.86 eV and had the highest value of conductance and the highest efficiency, namely 0.0925%. This experiment successfully demonstrates that the narrower the energy gap of a molecule, the ability to transfer electrons is faster. Thus, the efficiency of the solar cell becomes higher. This investigation has proven that the narrow band gap makes the electron transfer becomes easier.

Generated power forecast of dye-sensitized solar plant with deep neural network

ABSTRACT The enormous amount of solar power and its state-of-the-art capturing technology that produces electricity, increases the grid interconnection rate of photovoltaic (PV) plants. Prior knowledge of the aperiodic characteristics of solar energy received by the Earth’s surface is essential for PV plants to ensure reliable operation and stable, secure grid connections. Power generation under diffused sunlight by PV plants with the most widely used first-generation solar cells has significant limitations. A dye-sensitized solar plant (DSSP), utilizes dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) technology, remains active in low light conditions. Though the activeness enables such plants to generate electricity throughout the year while receiving diffuse sunlight, unlike conventional solar technologies the plants have a requirement of knowledge of future power generation. This could be the first paper to report on the generated power forecast for such plants. The study has utilized a machine learning approach with a proposed DSSP model for the forecast. Spyder, an open-source integrated development environment, is the test workbench for the experimentation. The results show the robustness and reliability of the method, regardless of the weather conditions in the test area. The DSSP, along with the prediction model, will moderately overcome the shortcomings of power generation under diffuse daylight with intermittent solar radiation and grid connections.

Steady and transient modeling of dye-sensitive solar cells: The impact of electrode thickness and dye specifications

Investigating the impact of dye compounds on cell performance is crucial for advancing dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). This research focuses on the sensitivity analysis of the effect of critical parameters to enhance DSSC efficiency using a thermo-electric numerical model. These parameters include dye types, trapping parameters, diffusion coefficients, and photoanode thickness. When the type of dye changes, in fact, both physical and chemical properties (molar absorption coefficient, etc.) Change, but to avoid the complexity of solving the equations and only to evaluate the effect of the absorption wavelength range on the cell performance only changes in physical properties are considered. The model calculates steady and transient currents under actual weather conditions and sunlight. It incorporates time/space-dependent relationships for increased accuracy and examines electron, iodide, and triiodide ion interactions under varying environmental conditions. Key concepts include the quasi-Fermi level and the multiple trap model, assuming that trapping processes are faster than electron transport and recombination. The results showed that increasing the trapping parameter can affect the transient current behavior, also increasing the thickness of the photoanode and the wavelength range of the dye increases the efficiency of the cell, so that the N749-BD provides the best performance. The findings provide insights into current–voltage characteristics, electron production, and the effects of photoanode thickness and dye types on cell performance, offering pathways for optimizing DSSC technology.

Investigate the utilization of novel natural photosensitizers for the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs)

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer a promising route for sustainable energy conversion, with natural photosensitizers emerging as attractive alternatives to conventional synthetic dyes due to their abundant resources, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendly materials. However, the efficiency of DSSC utilizing natural photosensitizer remains low. In this study, we investigate the utilization of novel natural photosensitizers extracted from gambier leaves, gambier branches, cinnamon, and petiole of tectona leaves, which contain flavonoids/tannins, chlorophyll, and anthocyanins, aiming to achieve high-performance DSSCs. Five different solvents—ethanol, isopropanol, distilled water, methanol, and Zamzam water—are explored to optimize the extraction process of the natural dyes. The doctor blade technique is employed to coat TiO2 nanomaterials onto ITO glass substrates. UV–Vis spectrophotometry and FTIR spectroscopy are used to characterize the optical properties and structural composition of the dyes, revealing that flavonoid/tannin groups are the primary compounds responsible for light harvesting. The DSSC performance is evaluated under a 30 W lamp, adjusted to light intensity of 10 mW/cm2. As a result, the DSSCs using gambier leaf extract as photosensitizer demonstrate the highest recorded efficiency of 4.71 %, with a Jsc of 2.95 mAcm−2 and a Voc of 0.64 V. These findings contribute to advancing DSSC technology by leveraging the potential of natural photosensitizers for sustainable energy conversion applications.

Study of photosensitizer dyes for high-performance dye-sensitized solar cells application: A computational investigation

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer a promising, cost-effective alternative to conventional photovoltaic systems. Organic sensitizers, capable of capturing a broad spectrum of sunlight, are key components in DSSCs, but their development and testing are often time-consuming and expensive. Quantum chemical calculations, specifically Density Functional Theory (DFT), have emerged as valuable tools to evaluate potential dye candidates, streamlining the design process and reducing costs. This study investigated the molecular structures and photophysical properties of three common dye classes used in high-performance DSSCs: natural pigments, anthocyanidin pigments, and squaraine dyes. Employing DFT and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) at the B3LYP/6–31G level, key parameters such as the HOMO-LUMO energy gap, free energy differences for electron injection and dye regeneration, short-circuit current density, total reorganization energy, and open-circuit voltage were analyzed. Additionally, maximum absorption wavelengths and oscillator strength values were calculated. Our findings provide valuable insights into the optical and electrical properties of these natural dyes, aiding DSSC manufacturers in selecting optimal sensitizers. This research highlights the potential of computational methods in accelerating dye development and improving the overall efficiency of DSSC technology.

Influence of functionalized diketopyrrolopyrrole sensitizer on the performance of CdS nanowire based-DSSC applications

Synthesis of chromophore (E)-2-(2-(2-(5-(2,5-bis(2-ethylhexyl)-3,6-dioxo-4-(thiophen-2-yl)-2,3,5,6 tetrahydropyrrolo [3,4-c] pyrrol-1-yl) thiophen-2-yl) vinyl)-4H-chromen-4 ylidene) malononitrile (DPP-CM-CN) has been designed and achieved in multistep reaction strategy. The experimental, photophysical and electrochemical properties along with theoretical calculations were explored. DPP-CM-CN dye was – chemically anchored on CdS nanowires (NWs) to investigate its influence on the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) applications. Under the illumination of standard sunlight conditions, the photovoltaic performance of DPP-CM-CN based CdS nanowire device displayed a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 0.38 %, which is 3.30 times higher as compared to a bare CdS nanowire (0.115 %) based DSSC device; ascribed to the dye loading time on CdS nanostructures. The present results suggest the potential ability of DPP-CM-CN to enhance DSSC device efficiency and reveal the importance of dye molecules in device fabrication, a key step towards the development of DSSC technology.

Impact of blocking layers based on TiO2 and ZnO prepared via direct current reactive magnetron sputtering on DSSC solar cells

The optimization of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) technology towards suppressing charge recombination between the contact and the electron transport layer is a key factor in achieving high conversion efficiency and the successful commercialization of this type of product. An important aspect of the DSSC structure is the front blocking layer (BL): optimizing this component may increase the efficiency of photoelectron transfer from the dye to the semiconductor by reduction charge recombination at the TiO2/electrolyte and FTO/electrolyte interfaces. In this paper, a series of blocking layer variants, based on TiO2 and ZnO:TiO2, were obtained using the reactive magnetron sputtering method. Material composition, structure and layer thickness were referred to each process parameters. Complete DSSCs with structure FTO/BL/m-TiO2@N719/ EL-HSE/Pt/FTO were obtained on such bases. In the final results, verification of opto-electrical parameters of these cells were tested and used for the conclusions on the optimal blocking layer composition. As the conclusion, application of blocking layer consists of neat TiO2 resulted in improvement of device efficiency. It should be noted that for TiO2:ZnO/CuxO and TiO2/CuxO cells, higher efficiencies were also achieved when pure TiO2 was used as window layer. Additionally it was proven that the admixture of ZnO phase inspires Voc and FF growth, but is overall unfavorable compared to pristine TiO2 blocking layer and the reference cell, according to the final cell efficiency.

Indoor photovoltaics: A numerical model of dye-sensitized solar cells based on indoor illumination for the Internet of Things applications

Since dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) have a suitable efficiency in the invisible region, they present a promising avenue for sustainable energy generation, particularly in the context of indoor environments where ambient lighting prevails. This paper proposes a novel numerical model tailored to assess the performance of DSSCs under indoor lighting conditions, with a specific focus on their potential application in powering Internet of Things (IoT) devices. By considering factors such as radiation intensity and spectral composition, particularly from common indoor light sources like Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Fluorescent lights, the model offers insights into the efficiency and viability of DSSCs in indoor settings. Since empirical analyses are difficult and expensive, the existence of a numerical model that investigates cell behavior under indoor illumination can be beneficial for developing such cells. In conducting verifying analyses under varying lighting conditions, the study demonstrates notable efficiencies of DSSCs, with LED 3000 K illumination at 1000 lux intensity yielding the highest performance. While DSSCs may appear less economically viable in environments with readily available electricity, their potential significance lies in providing sustainable energy solutions for IoT devices, thus reducing dependency on conventional power sources and contributing to environmental sustainability. The scientific significance of this research lies in its contribution to understanding the behavior of DSSCs under indoor lighting, offering insights into their potential applications in powering IoT devices. By providing a numerical model for evaluating DSSC performance under realistic indoor conditions, this study opens avenues for further research in optimizing DSSC technology for indoor energy harvesting applications, thereby advancing the field of renewable energy and sustainable technology integration.

The effect of π-spacer on D-A'-π-a system organic dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) technology: a computational approach”

Abstract The globe is consuming more energy as a result of population growth and economic development. One of the most important forms of renewable energy for human usage is solar energy. By modifying the π-spacers, four D-A'-π-A of novel organic dye molecules (D1–D4) have been created in this study. To evaluate the optoelectronic capabilities and photovoltaic qualities of four D-A'-π-A new organic dyes created molecules, density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) theory methodologies through the B3LYP and 6-311G basis set have been employed. To ascertain the effect of developed π-spacer on enhancing intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) and enhancing light-absorbing capacities, a number of crucial factors, including molecular geometry, energy bandgap and light-harvesting efficiency (LHE), have been studied. Based on the available data, D4 outperforms the other four developed organic dye molecules, with energy bandgap of 1.4896 and 1.4253 eV for gas and solvent phase, respectively, regeneration driving forces (ΔGreg) of 0.0469 and 0.0300 eV for the gas phase and solvent phase, respectively, and open-circuit voltages (Voc) of 0.6427 and 0.5953 eV for the gas phase and solvent phase, respectively. Additionally, the maximum absorption wavelengths (λmax) for the gas phase and solvent phase are 932.03 and 1013.81 nm, respectively. Consequently, it was found that the D4 dye molecule was a more promising option for the use of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) technology hence advised for more practical research to provide efficient advancements in the D-A'-π-A system organic dye for the production of sustainable energy.

A DFT study on natural sensitizers with donor-π-acceptor architecture based on 1,7-diazaheptametine for applications in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC)

Nature offers a wide range of organic dyes with potential as sensitizers in DSSC technology. Among them, some natural dyes contain a 1,7-diazaheptamethine system, influencing their chromatic properties. In this investigation, we computationally analyzed 21 natural betalain dyes featuring a common structural moiety through Density Functional Theory calculations. Among them, eight dyes were classified under the betacyanin subfamily, while the remaining thirteen were attributed to the betaxanthin subfamily. These dyes were examined both in isolation and when bound to titanium dioxide (dye@TiO2). The betaxanthin subfamily showed more twisted geometries, while the betacyanin subfamily exhibited a smaller energy gap. All isolated dyes or dyes@TiO2 exhibit maximum absorption peaks within the visible region (350–700 nm), showcasing their light-capturing capacity. Stability, evidenced by negative adsorption energies, suggests the spontaneity of the adsorption process. Furthermore, our results indicate that the nature of bonding significantly influences the electronic properties of dye@TiO2 complexes. Collectively, these results underscore the importance of the 1,7-diazaheptamethine system in imparting color and structure to these dyes. Our thorough analysis, encompassing molecular interactions, geometric attributes—especially the configuration of donor groups—electronic properties, and absorption spectra, provides valuable insights into the potential applications and effectiveness of these dyes for incorporation in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC).

Structural and Optical Characteristics of Multilayer ZnO Nanorod:TiO2 by DC Magnetron Sputtering for Dye Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) Application

The development of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) technology by utilizing various semiconductors has attracted attention. Among all types of semiconductors, the nanostructure of ZnO is selected due to their unique electrical properties and ease of preparation in various morphologies, and it has been considered a promising material to be applied in DSSC. In this research, the DC magnetron sputtering method was used to prepare ZnO thin films as an efficient alternative to press the charge recombination process that occurs in TiO2-based DSSC. Different thicknesses of TiO2 layers on the FTO conductive glass substrate were made through various sputtering deposition times, while the ZnO nanorod layers were made with a single layer using the hydrothermal method. We used XRD, SEM, UV-Vis, I-V meter, and EIS analysis. Based on these characterization we concluded that multilayer ZnO nanorod:TiO2 coating with a sputtering time of 60 minutes resulted the best performance of DSSC with an efficiency of 0.27%.

Hydrazonothiazole dyes for enhanced dye-sensitized solar cells in greenhouse applications: Achieving high power conversion efficiency and long-term stability

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer a cost-effective and attractive alternative to traditional solar cells for greenhouse applications. Hydrazonothiazole dyes (MHS-1-4) have been investigated as a viable DSSC technology, with researchers designing dyes that absorb light in the green region, while transmitting light in the red and blue regions, making them the ideal fit for plant growth. Sensitized devices display impressive power conversion efficiency (PCEs) ranging from 6.27 to 8.85%, with MHS-4 DSSCs achieving an 8.85% power conversion efficiency, a short-circuit photocurrent density of 17.90 mA cm−2, and a maximum incident monochromatic photon-to-electron conversion efficiency (IPCE) of 80%. Furthermore, DSSCs based on MHS-4 demonstrate excellent long-term stability, sustaining nearly constant power conversion efficiency after exposure to one-sun illumination for 1000 h. This breakthrough study demonstrates the potential for hydrazonothiazole dyes in DSSCs, marking a significant step forward in the development of cost-effective solar cell technology compatible with plant growth. With MHS-1-4 dyes' ability to effectively convert photoelectric energy throughout the visible range, and even into the near-infrared (NIR) region up to 900 nm, they offer a new benchmark for DSSC technology.

Performance and dye-stability of semi-transparent dye-sensitized solar cell pavilion modules after six years of operation

A solar pavilion with 248 commercial 30 × 30 cm semi-transparent DSC modules were built at Roskilde University campus in 2016. After five years of operation under Danish climate conditions, and again one year later, two representative modules one from the south side and one from the north side of the pavilion facades were removed and their electrical performance relative to new modules was obtained. In addition, the respective dye degradation and triiodide bleaching was investigated. The south oriented module showed a decrease in efficiency of 85% and the north oriented module of 34% after 5 years. The degradation products of the applied ruthenium dye Z907 were typical thermal degradation products in which one or both of the thiocyanate ligands in Z907 had been substituted with the electrolyte components 3-methoxypropionitrile and or iodide. The degree of dye degradation in the south and north oriented modules after five years were 73% and 50% and the I3− concentration decreased 63% and 33%, respectively. The decrease in electrical performance Δη = 16%/year of the south module is within the same magnitude as performance loss of similar large-scale outdoor DSC installations. Such relatively high efficiency losses pr. year needs to be reduced if building integration photovoltaics based on the dye-sensitized solar cell technology should be commercially successful.

Towards low cost and green photovoltaic devices: Using natural photosensitizers and MoS2/Graphene oxide composite counter electrodes

Photovoltaic systems, for example, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), are one of the useful tools for producing renewable and green energy. To develop DSSCs technology, it is necessary to overcome obstacles such as the need for expensive compounds. A series of DSSCs were designed and manufactured based on natural dyes extracted from cornelian cherry, black pomegranate, ruby grape, and tangerine peel as photosensitizers. The performance, structure, and interaction of the prepared extracts were evaluated by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Then, the prepared low-cost green dyes were employed in the preparation of DSSCs. A new MoS2/GO hybrid or composite was also employed instead of platinum. The synthesized MoS2/GO hybrid or composite was evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscopy and the results illustrated that the desired compound was synthesized successfully. Finally, DSSCs were prepared using MoS2/GO hybrid or composite and compared with that containing platinum. Under same conditions, the DSSCs with MoS2/GO composite illustrated better efficiency than MoS2/GO hybrid. The co-sensitization of Pt-free DSSC based on natural dyes has been studied for the first time in this work, which provides with expanding photovoltaic absorption range.

A thermal framework for preliminary evaluation of the development of dye-sensitized solar cells in temperate and warm climates

Environmental conditions influence the development of solar cell technologies; variables such as solar irradiation, wind speed, and ambient temperature influence the operating temperature of the cells, which affect their electrical performance; however, this effect may differ according to the solar technology. In the case of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs), it is necessary to generate more studies to evaluate their behavior in different types of climates under real conditions, as it is known that, in comparison with Silicon cells, DSSCs show a lower decrease in their efficiency values when are subjected to high operating temperatures. Nevertheless, temperature is cited as the most important external variable affecting the stability of DSSCs. Therefore, in this paper, a new thermal numerical model is proposed to obtain the operating temperature contours of the DSSCs under real environmental conditions for two types of climates representative of Mexico (temperate and warm climate). The operating temperatures have been investigated as a function of solar irradiance, ambient temperature, wind speeds, and varying different electrolytes. It concludes that the efficiency gap between DSSCs and Silicon cells decreases as the operating temperature increases; moreover, an efficiency of 12.2% in DSSCs and 25.09% in Silicon cells were presented with 300 K of operating temperature, and an efficiency of 11.02% in DSSCs and 13.7% in Silicon cells were presented with 400 K of operating temperature. This concludes that DSSC technology might be an appropriate alternative for temperate and hot climates. DSSCs show a decrease in the efficiency of 9.76% compared to Silicon solar cells, which show a decrease in 50.1%.

Circular Design Principles Applied on Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

In a world with growing demand for resources and a worsening climate crisis, it is imperative to research and put into practice more sustainable and regenerative products and processes. Especially in the energy sector, more sustainable systems that are recyclable, repairable and remanufacturable are needed. One promising technology is dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). They can be manufactured with low energy input and can be made from non-toxic components. More than 70% of the environmental impact of a product is already determined in the design phase of a product, which is why it is essential to implement repair, remanufacturing and recycling concepts into the product design. In this publication, we explore appropriate design principles and business models that can be applied to DSSC technology. To realize this, we applied the concept of Circo Track, a method developed by the Technical University of Delft, to DSSCs and investigated which design concepts and business models are applicable. This method enables companies to transform a product that is disposed of after its useful life into one that can be used for longer and circulates in material cycles. The most important result is the description of a performance-based business model in which DSSCs are integrated into the customer’s building and green energy is provided as a service. During the operational phase, data is collected for product improvement and maintenance, and repair is executed when necessary. When the contract expires, it can be renewed, otherwise the modules are dismantled, reused, remanufactured or recycled.

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) decorated MXene as an alternative counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

Counter electrodes (CE) layer in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are possibly the most exorbitant material due to the presence of scarce earth metal, platinum (Pt). The prospective substitution of a Pt-CE would effectively pave the way for broad commercialization of the DSSC technology. In this regard, this work is focused on the fabrication of poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) decorated MXene (PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx) composite electrode, and its performance as a CE in DSSC was tested for the replacement of high-cost Pt-CE. The 2D-Ti3C2Tx was initially synthesized by the selective chemical etching method, followed by the electro-polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) monomer on the Ti3C2Tx surface. Further, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization results confirm the successful formation of the PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx composite. PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx-CE display a strong electrocatalytic activity toward the iodide/triiodide electrolyte and good charge transfer kinetics with low charge transfer resistance close to the performance of the Pt electrode, as shown by electrochemical experiments. On the other hand, further testing of the device fabricated with thermally decomposed Pt-CE DSSCs achieved an efficiency of 8.7% under simulated 1SUN light at AM1.5G, whilst the DSSC built with the as-prepared composite material had 7.12% efficiency under the same conditions. PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx-CE composite DSSC outperformed PEDOT-CE and Ti3C2Tx-CE DSSC in power conversion efficiency improvements (PCE), demonstrating that PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx composite possesses a strong catalytic activity with noticeable charge transfer and mass transport capabilities. Therefore, the as-fabricated composite film takes utilization of the conductivity and electrocatalytic capabilities of the two components, increasing the overall power conversion efficiency of DSSC. The 15-days stability investigation demonstrates that the PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx-CE-based DSSC exhibits a consistent performance and corrosion resistant toward the iodide/triiodide redox electrolyte. Therefore, overall performance level of the PEDOT@Ti3C2Tx-CE thus entices more study for the replacement of Pt in DSSC and is indeed evinced to be a prospective noble metal electrode contender.

N719 dye as a sensitizer for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs): A review of its functions and certain rudimentary principles

AbstractNew technologies need environmental and economic cooperation. Energy consumption is fundamental to human survival, making sustainable development imperative. When discussing energy production, renewable resources such as solar and wind energy are chosen to satisfy future demands. Solar energy is frequently used owing to its availability and several benefits. Though more efficient, silicon solar cells are poisonous and expensive. In comparison to other PV cells, the dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have several benefits, such as easily accessible materials, low‐cost production processes, simple processing and exceptional diffuse light performance. DSSCs are more reliable alternative to many photovoltaic systems, including hybrid solar cells, inorganic, and organic. DSSCs technology characteristically be influenced by on photosensitizer, electrolyte, and the metal oxide semiconductor. Significant enhancement in cell efficiency has been ranges reach to 12%, using Ru (II) dyes by enhancing substantial besides essential characterization. The dye, that is acting as a source of photoexcited electrons, is the most significant component of a DSSC. This brief review highlights and discusses a summary of the ongoing research made to assist optimization under using N719 dye for DSSC devices.

Synthesis of rGO-CoMoS composite using hydrothermal method as a counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC)

Dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) technology is a good choice to convert sun energy into electrical energy, because of its low cost fabrication. One of the main components of the DSSC is the counter electrode, which is generally Pt based, while Pt is expensive and rare material, so replacement for Pt is needed. The rGO-CoMoS composite is a potential one. rGO was prepared from graphite which was oxidized by the hummer method. rGO-CoMoS was synthesized from GO, Cobalt, Molybdenum, and thiourea using a hydrothermal reaction at 200 oC, with various reaction times for 12, 24, and 36 hours. Time variation is done because the reaction time affects the character of the composite formed. The results of the synthesis were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy to prove that the synthesis was successful. Then the composite was coated on FTO glass to become a counter electrode, and sandwich fabricated with the arrangement of FTO/TiO2-N3-I−/I3 −-rGO-CoMoS/FTO. Then tested the current and voltage with Keithley to determine its efficiency as a DSSC. And the material that produces the best efficiency is rGO-CoMoS 36 with efficiency 0.00413%.