Dye-sensitized solar cells containing photoelectrodes with TiO₂ grids

Abstract

A 90-nm-thick TiO2 grid is created through photolithography, sputtering and lift-off process in this study. A nanoporous film is deposited on the TiO2 grid. The grid induces a recessed structure in the nanoporous film. Experimental results demonstrate that introducing the TiO2 grid into a dye-sensitized solar cell increases its power conversion efficiency by 25 % compared to a dye-sensitized solar cell lacking a TiO2 grid. Consequently, the TiO2 grid proves beneficial in augmenting the power conversion efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell. The increased power conversion efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell containing the TiO2 grid is attributed to the large surface area and directional electron transport channels of the recessed structure. The TiO2 grid offers advantages such as simple fabrication, cost-effective production and improved power conversion efficiency.