Blueberries as a Source of Energy: Physical Chemistry Characterization of Their Anthocyanins as Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells’ Sensitizers

Abstract

This work aimed to show the possibility of applying anthocyanins extracted from blueberries following a straightforward path as potential impregnation dyes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), particularly in the presence of co-adsorbents, such as silver nanoparticles, as an alternative in order to profit from large amounts of discarded fruits. Following a simple procedure, anthocyanins (mainly delphinidin-3-glucoside) were obtained from blueberries (Southern Highbush type). Complete characterization was carried out in order to prove the utility of delphinidin-3-glucoside as a sensitizer in DSSCs. The analyzed anthocyanin is suitable for sensitizing because of its high molar absorptivity values within the visible region of the light spectra, the adsorption ability to a FTO/TiO2 electrode (FTO, fluorine-doped tin oxide) as confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) as well as thermogravimetry coupled to differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), a potential oxidation value near 1 V, and adequate thermal as well as light stabilities. Moreover, the cell’s conversion efficiency is improved in the presence of silver nanoparticles, reaching 0.24% (nearly a 25% increase). The sum of all these characteristics points to the application of delphinidin-3-glucoside as a sensitizer in DSSCs, offering a technological use with potential interest for countries where agricultural production offers an abundant origin of extraction.

A Recent Review of Electrospun Porous Carbon Nanofiber Mats for Energy Storage and Generation Applications

“…The large surface area of electrospun carbon nanofibers enables effective immobilization of dye molecules, resulting in increased light collection efficiency for the device [100]. The high electrical conductivity of the carbon nanofibers facilitates efficient electron transport from the photoanode to the counter electrode, minimizing electron recombination losses and improving the overall efficiency of the device [101]. The random arrangement of the nanofibers helps to scatter and trap light, increasing the optical path length The nanofiber network provides a three-dimensional structure that enhances dye absorption and electron transport, leading to higher device performance [99].…”

Unlocking the potential of anthocyanin-based dye-sensitized solar cells: Strategies for enhancing efficiency, stability, and economic viability

“…These natural pigments, abundant in fruits and plant tissues, are recognized for exceptional light-absorbing properties. Seminal previous works in 2023 highlight the efficacy of anthocyanins from diverse sources (Aziza et al, 2023;Montagni et al, 2023;Rajoriya et al, 2023;Shukor et al, 2023;Soosairaj et al, 2023;Yadav et al, 2023). The chemical structure of anthocyanins, with conjugated double bonds and hydroxyl groups, facilitates efficient light absorption and charge transfer in solar cells.…”