Comparing the Efficiency of Silicon Based Solar Cells with Dye Sensitized Solar Cells


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The typical method of making dye sensitized solar cells was used to begin wich, with a few new methods employed as varying constraints. Of particular concern is the porous sponge like structure of TiO2 that enhances light absorption and electron collection efficiency. Each particle is between 10 and 50nm in diameter, allowing the electrons to easily flow from one electrode to the other. In this particular study, we have chosen to see the effects of increasing the soak period of the cell and using a different method to apply the TiO2 colloidal suspension. By simply increasing the soak period of the glass electrodes and spraying the TiO2 on the cell (as opposed to rolling it on) a drastic change in Isc and Voc is noticeable. Another fairly new aspect of this study is the use of chlorophyll as the photo-sensitizer. In most studies, scientists have used anthocyanine as the dye which will absorb photons of light. We found that chlorophyll has a absorption spectra that corresponds to the visible region of light and as such may be a better photo-sensitizer. The motivation for my research came from a long history of concern for third world countries.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 2010 Clean Technology Conference and Trade Show
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 103 - 106
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Solar Technologies
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3419-0