Stepwise optimizing photovoltaic performance of dye‐sensitized cells made under 50‐lux dim light

• Published in: Progress in photovoltaics 2021-05, Vol.29 (5), p.533-545
• Main Authors: Lu, Man Ning, Su, Tzu‐Sen, Pylnev, Mikhail, Long, Yean‐San, Wu, Teng‐Chun, Tsai, Min‐An, Wei, Tzu‐Chien
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: dim light; Dyes; dye‐sensitized solar cells; energy harvesting; Fluorescence; Iodine; Nanoparticles; Photovoltaic cells; Titanium dioxide
• ISSN: 1062-7995; 1099-159X
• DOI: 10.1002/pip.3406

Dye‐sensitized cells (DSCs) are promising photovoltaic technology that converts photon energy to electric energy efficiently in direct sunlight and ambient indoor light. While most papers address this triumph by utilizing novel materials such as new sensitizers, new redox couples, or new architecture, herein, we report a different approach, which progressively improves a dim light‐illuminated DSC's performance based on commercially mature materials. Specifically, the thickness of the mesoscopic TiO2 film, the preferred facet of TiO2 nanoparticles, the quality of compact layer, and iodine/iodide concentration are stepwisely optimized based on the consideration of dim light condition. Finally, the conversion efficiency of a DSC under extreme dim of 50‐lux fluorescent light is improved from 2.43% to 14.86%, accordingly. Dim light‐illuminated DSC's performance based on commercially mature materials was progressively improved. Specifically, the thickness of the mesoscopic TiO2 film, the preferred facet of TiO2 nanoparticles, the quality of compact layer and iodine/iodide concentration were stepwisely optimized based on the consideration of dim light condition. Finally, the conversion efficiency of a DSC under extreme dim of 50‐lux fluorescent light is improved from 2.43% to 14.86%, accordingly.