Photophysical Studies of Ruthenium-Based Complexes and the Performance of Nanostructured TiO2 Based Dye Sensitized Solar Cells

Abstract

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have attracted enormous attention in the last couple of decades due to their relatively small size, low cost and minimal environmental impact. DSSCs convert solar energy to electrical energy with the aid of a sensitizing dye. In this work, two ruthenium-based dyes, tris(bipyridine)ruthenium(II) chloride (Rubpy) and ruthenium(II)2,2'-bis(benzimidazol-2-yl)-4,4'-bipyridine (RubbbpyH 2), were synthesized, characterized, and investigated for use as dye sensitizers in the fabrication of DSSCs. The photovoltaic performance of the ruthenium-based DSSCs was assessed. The solar-to-electric power efficiency of the RubbbpyH 2 DSSC was 0.2% and that of the Rubpy was 0.03%. The RubbbpyH 2 was also deprotonated and analyzed to study the effect of deprotonation on the efficiency of the solar cell. The deprotonated species, Rubbbpy, recorded an average efficiency of 0.12%. Thus, a change in pH did not enhance the efficiency of the solar cell. The cells were further characterized by impedance measurements. The photocurrent-photovoltage results were not consistent with the absorption spectra since Rubbbpy showed a more prominent band than RubbbpyH 2 but had a lower efficiency.

Review on Efficiency Enhancement Using Natural Extract Mediated Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell for Sustainable Photovoltaics

“…The optical bands can be recorded in light and dark conditions. [ 15,82 ] Ferreira et al reported that the electric properties based on the interface of Thunbergia erecta plant‐based dye extract with multiple layers of TiO 2 were examined by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) study. They found three frequencies based interfaces in the devices are: 1) highest frequency range is responsible for electron transmission at Pt coated CE/ I − /I 3 − combination; 2) middle frequency range is responsible for charge passing and transmission with metal oxide semiconductor/sensitizer/electrode barrier; and 3) low‐frequency range responsible for Warburg dispersion (electron diffusion) progression of I − /I 3 − in the electrolyte solution.…”

Characterization and Comparison of DSSCs Fabricated with Black Natural Dyes Extracted from Jamun, Black Plum, and Blackberry

“…The efficiency of this conversion depends, to a large extent, on the quality of the dye sensitizer used in the fabrication of the solar cell [12][13][14][15]. Over the past two decades, several classes of dyes-including ruthenium compounds, [15][16][17][18][19][20]. Porphyrins [21][22][23] and cyanines [24,25] have been synthesized, characterized, and applied in the design of efficient DSSCs.…”

Enhancing the Performance of Dye Sensitized Solar Cells Using Silver Nanoparticles Modified Photoanode

“…In particular, solar energy already provides energy for all organisms on Earth through the process of photosynthesis [5][6][7]. Through the use of photovoltaic cells, sunlight can be converted into and utilized as electricity [8][9][10]. Since solar energy is the most abundant form of renewable energy, solar cells create the possibility of easily accessible energy for inhabitants in various regions throughout the world.…”