Dye-sensitized Solar Cells Research Articles

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

Enhancing solar cell efficiency: In-situ polymerization with Cu2O@CuO core-shell nanostars

Herein, Cu2O@CuO core-shell nanostars were prepared via a solution-processed method. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses confirmed that the Cu2O nanostars were consistently enclosed by a CuO layer. Dibromo (DB)-3,4-ethylenedioxythiphene (EDOT) monomer was prepared from commercially available 3,4-ethylenedioxythiphene via a common bromination method. The Cu2O@CuO core-shell nanostars were blended with the DBEDOT monomer and heated to 70 °C to form a nano-hybrid hole transport material (HTM) for application in solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells (ssDSCs). The nanohybrid is systematically characterized through scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform spectroscopy. The photovoltaic performance of the ssDSCs was optimized by varying the Cu2O@CuO core-shell nanostars concentration in the nanohybrid HTM from 1 to 3 wt%, while maintaining the concentration of the DBEDOT monomer at 1wt%. In addition, the electrochemical properties of the nanohybrid HTM were explored through electrochemical impedance spectrometry measurements. Among the analyzed samples, the 1 wt% Cu2O@CuO core-shell nanostars in the nanohybrid HTM show the best efficiency. This method establishes the possibility of applying high-performance organic/inorganic-based nanohybrid HTMs in ssDSCs.

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.

The Enhancement Light Absorption of ZnO-TiO2 Nanocomposite as Photoanode

ZnO nanomaterial in Dye Sensitized Solar cells (DSSC) has the disadvantage of low efficiency. The purpose of this study was to improve the DSSC efficiency of the ZnO photoanode. ZnO-TiO2 nanocomposites are used as photoanodes that can improve light absorption. ZnO-TiO2 nanocomposites can increase the performance efficiency of the solar cell compared to ZnO Pristine. This is due to the reduced recombination between ZnO/electrolyte and the increased lifetime of electrons because of the presence of electrons trapped in TiO2. The most optimal sample from this study was found in ZnO-TiO2 nanocomposite with a volume concentration ratio (85%-15%) because the efficiency DSSC increases almost 2 times.

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.

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.

Enhanced Photovoltaic Performance of Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene)Poly(N-Alkylcarbazole) Copolymer-Based Counter Electrode in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Conducting polymers are emerging as promising alternatives to rare and expensive platinum for counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells; due to their ease of synthesis, they can be chemically tuned and are suitable for roll-to-roll production. Among these, poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-based counter electrodes have shown leading photovoltaic performance. However, certain conductivity issues remain that affect the effectiveness of these counter electrodes. In this study, we present an electropolymerized PEDOT and poly(N-alkylated-carbazole) copolymer as an efficient electrocatalyst for the reduction in I3− in dye-sensitized solar cells. Copolymerization with N-alkylated carbazoles significantly increases the conductivity of the polymer film and facilitates rapid charge transport at the interface between the polymer electrode and the electrolyte. The length of the alkyl substituents also plays a crucial role in this improvement. Electrochemical analysis showed a reduction in charge transport resistance from 3.31 Ω·cm2 for PEDOT to 2.26 Ω·cm2 for the PEDOT:poly(N-octylcarbazole) copolymer, which is almost half the resistance of a platinum-based counter electrode (4.12 Ω·cm2). Photovoltaic measurements showed that the solar cell with the PEDOT:poly(N-octylcarbazole) counter electrode achieved an efficiency of 8.88%, outperforming both PEDOT (7.90%) and platinum-based devices (7.57%).

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.

Novel platinum-free counter-electrode with PEDOT:PSS-treated graphite/activated carbon for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

Novel platinum-free counter-electrode with PEDOT:PSS-treated graphite/activated carbon for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

Investigating the acceptor tuned effect on INPOD-based efficient D-π-A organic chromophores for optoelectronic utilization through quantum chemical analysis

In this study, the dye-sensitized solar cells and non-linear optical capabilities of newly designed ((E)-2-amino-5-((5-(4-p-tolyl-1,2,3,3a, 4,8 b-hexahydrocyclopenta [b]indol-7-yl)thiophen-2-yl)methylene)thiazol-4(5H)-one (INPOD)-based A1-A6 organic chromophores were examined. To create a D-π-A structure, the A1-A6 molecules were positioned on the electron donor, spacer, and acceptor, respectively. The use of hybrid functionals including PBEPBE, CAM-B3LYP, and MPW1PW91 was evaluated for the maximum absorption wavelength of INPOD. According to the calculated outcomes, MPW1PW91 exhibited λmax closest to INPOD. Consequently, the optical absorption spectra of A1-A6 were employed by this method to identify the key factors. The photovoltaic characteristics of these compounds in dye-sensitized solar cells were studied theoretically. The acceptor category affected the photovoltaic performance of A1-A6. Through the quantum chemical technique in time-dependent density functional theory methods, the electronic charge distribution and intramolecular charge transfer inside the A1-A6 were found. Time-dependent density functional theory calculations revealed that all A1-A6 had a λmax, that was greater than the INPOD (437 nm) in the range of 564–806 nm. A6 demonstrated an electron reorganization energy of 0.2340 eV, while a hole reorganization energy of 0.1006 eV. These values represent the maximum mobility of holes and electrons among all values. Additionally, the open circuit voltage was calculated after coupling each compound with a PTB7-Th. By the Voc of 2.10, 2.06, 2.22, and 2.08 eV, the A1, A3, A4, and A5 dyes produced the best results, respectively. The A1-A6 sensitizers were used to derive the non-linear optical properties of the dipole moment, polarizability, and first-order hyperpolarizability. It was noticed from the calculated results that the A2 and A6 molecules have the best options for non-linear optical activity. It tested how well the A1-A6 dyes performed in terms of charge transfer, dye regeneration, electron injection driving force, light harvesting efficiency, transition density matrix, molecular electro-potential, and density of states. The computed result showed that A2 and A6 chromophores are excellent candidates for dye-sensitized solar cells. Finally, those dye derivatives would certainly work effectively as tuning-A in optoelectronic applications.

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.

Optimization, imaging and LHE analysis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles synthesized with carambola extract as natural dye sensitizer

This work explores the enhancement of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) by using magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) that have been green-synthesized, with carambola extract acting as a natural dye sensitizer. Green synthesis minimizes the negative effects of traditional synthesis methods on the environment by providing a sustainable and ecologically friendly way to produce MgO NPs. To increase their effectiveness in DSSC applications, the synthesized nanoparticles underwent optimization. The morphology and size distribution of MgO NPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed spherical forms with a consistent size distribution. The crystalline nature of the MgO NPs was verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed distinctive peaks that correspond to the bulk MgO crystal planes. A band gap of 3.5 eV, appropriate for UV region absorption, was found using UV–visible spectroscopy. FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy revealed information about their molecular compositions. Positive electronic characteristics, such as a negative total energy change (ΔE_T) and a high electrophilicity index (ω), which indicates effective charge transfer, were found through computational analysis. The light harvesting efficiency (LHE) value of 0.00459 signifies optimal light absorption capability by the dye molecule. The outcomes show that MgO NPs that have undergone green synthesis have the potential to be efficient and stable sensitizers for DSSCs. In addition to highlighting the significance of green synthesis techniques in nanomaterial research for renewable energy applications, this work advances the development of efficient and sustainable solar energy systems.

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.

Fabrication and Characterization of Co-Sensitized Dye Solar Cells Using Energy Transfer from Spiropyran Derivatives to SQ2 Dye

We developed dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) using 1,5-carboxy-2-[[3-[(2,3-dihydro-1,1-dimethyl-3-ethyl-1H-benzo[e]indol-2-ylidene)methyl]-2-hydroxy-4-oxo-2-cyclobuten-1-ylidene]methyl]-3,3-dimethyl-1-octyl-3H-indolium and 1,3,3-trimethyl indolino-6′-nitrobenzopyrylospiran. The DSSCs incorporate photochromic molecules to regulate photoelectric conversion properties. We irradiated photoelectrodes adsorbed with SQ2/SPNO2 using both UV and visible light and observed the color changes in these photoelectrodes. Following UV irradiation, the transmittance at 540 nm decreased by 20%, while it increased by 15% after visible light irradiation. This indicates that SPNO2 on the DSSCs is photoisomerized from the spiropyran form (SP) to the photomerocyanine (PMC) form under UV light. The photoelectric conversion efficiency (η) of the DSSCs increased by 0.15% following 5 min of UV irradiation and decreased by 0.07% after 5 min of visible light irradiation. However, direct electron injection from PMC seems challenging, suggesting that the mechanism for improved photoelectric conversion in these DSSCs is likely due to Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from PMC to the SQ2 dye. The findings suggest that the co-sensitization of DSSCs by PMC-SQ2 and SQ2 alone, facilitated by their respective photoabsorption, results in externally responsive and co-sensitized solar cells. This study provides valuable insights into the development of advanced DSSCs with externally controllable photoelectric conversion properties via the strategic use of photochromic molecules and energy transfer mechanisms, advancing future solar energy applications.

Water as Dual-Function Plasticizer and Cosolvent in Gel Electrolytes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells.

This study presents a novel approach to developing eco-friendly dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) using natural and renewable materials for gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs), reducing reliance on unsustainable solvents. Water is added to polar aprotic solvents, specifically ethylene carbonate/propylene carbonate (EC/PC), across various mass fractions (0:100 to 100:0). An amphiphilic hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) natural polymer is employed to formulate GPEs within this water-EC/PC cosolvent system, achieving successful gelation up to 50:50 mass fractions. Incorporating water reduced the gel strength and viscosity of the GPEs. Water acted as a plasticizer, enhancing the polymer chains mobility, and creating a more flexible and permeable structure. This increased ion diffusion coefficients and ion mobility, resulting in a maximum ionic conductivity of 18.17 mS cm-1. The highest efficiency achieved in DSSCs using these GPEs is 5.81%, with elevated short-circuit current density and reduced recombination losses. However, some compositions experienced syneresis, affecting their stability. The GPE with a 40:60 mass fraction exhibited superior long-term stability because it is free from syneresis, though it achieved a lower efficiency (4.83%), making it the best-performing sample. This work demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of using gel polymer electrolytes in an aqueous system, improving DSSC efficiency and sustainability.

Effect of Tungsten Doping on the Properties of Titanium Dioxide Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Tungsten-doped TiO2 thin films were prepared by sol–gel method on fluorine-doped tin oxide-coated substrates as working electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells. The influences of different W doping (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 at%) on the microstructure, optical, and photovoltaic properties of the W-TiO2 thin-film DSSCs were studied by the measurement of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). An optimal DSSCs performance was observed with a 6 at% W-doped TiO2 thin film, resulting in a Voc of 0.68 V, a Jsc of 20.2 mA/cm2, an FF of 68.6%, and an efficiency (η) of 9.42%. The efficiency of DSSCs with 6 at% W-doped TiO2 photoanode improved by 75%. This is because the 6 at% W-doped TiO2 thin film increases the specific surface area and electron transfer rate.

Rational Design of Facile and Low‐Cost Construction of Carbon‐Based Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells using Garcinia Mangostana L. as a Photosensitizer

Research on solar cell devices is not only always related to how to obtain high power conversion efficiency (PCE), but also other factors need to be fully considered, such as the cost and their ecofriendliness. In this present research, a low‐cost and ecofriendly dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) is being developed using a graphite‐based nanocomposite and an unusual plant extract (Garcinia mangostana L.) as the dye photosensitizer. A rational design on how to use graphite as a photoanode and counter electrode (CE) in DSSC is carried out by combining the graphite with ZnO and multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), respectively. It is observed that graphite acts as a matrix for ZnO and MWCNT to make these nanocomposites have very appropriate optoelectronics and catalytic properties compared to the control sample. Therefore, they could serve as an excellent photoanode and CE, respectively. It is also expected that the anthocyanin absorption in Garcinia mangostana L. dye which is found in the visible light range can efficiently absorb photons, thus supporting the enhancement of photovoltaic performance of the DSSC. The generated voltage (V) and current (I) from light irradiation using commercial lamps are higher compared to halogen lamps, indicating that the obtained DSSC has potential as indoor powered devices. It is believed that our study can shed light on the development of DSSC using low‐cost material graphite as the main component for the realization of low‐cost DSSC devices.

Efficient Large Area Semi‐Transparent Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) Printed with DMD400 Technology

AbstractThis work presents the development of fully printed, large‐area, semi‐transparent Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) using TiO2 nanoparticles treated with TiCl4, a “D35” push‐pull dye sensitizer, and I3−/I− redox mediator. Cells with areas of 4 and 200 cm2 were printed using hexagonal, stripe, and standard designs, employing digital materials deposition (DMD) technology. The porous films printed via DMD, confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), improved solar cells performance by enhancing the Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) and fill factor (FF). The hexagonal design, in particular, facilitated better electrolyte impregnation in the TiO2 mesoporous structure, boosting current density. This design yielded a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.05% for 4 cm2 DSSCs, surpassing the stripe (5.50%) and standard (5.48%) designs. Its higher performance can be attributed to lower interfacial charge recombination rates and improvedcharge transfer and collection efficiency. Photophysical measurements indicated faster charge transfer rates in hexagonal cells (≈ 1.3 × 109s−1) compared to the stripe (9.8 × 108 s−1) and standard (9.5 × 108 s−1) designs. Hence, our work highlights the potential of hexagonal design to improve both efficiency and transparency while reducing material consumption, offering a promising approach for manufacturing semi‐transparent solar cells.

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.