Solar Energy Conversion by Dye-Sensitized Photovoltaic Cells
Year: 2005
Type: article
Abstract: The quality of human life depends to a large degree on the availability of energy. This is threatened unless renewable energy resources can be developed in the near future. Chemistry is expected to make important contributions to identify environmentally friendly solutions of the energy problem. One attractive strategy discussed in this Forum Article is the development of solar cells that are based on the sensitization of mesoscopic oxide films by dyes or quantum dots. These systems have already reached conversion efficiencies exceeding 11%. The underlying fundamental processes of light harvesting by the sensitizer, heterogeneous electron transfer from the electronically excited chromophore into the conduction band of the semiconductor oxide, and percolative migration of the injected electrons through the mesoporous film to the collector electrode will be described below in detail. A number of research topics will also be discussed, and the examples for the first outdoor application of such solar cells will be provided.
Source: Inorganic Chemistry
DOI: 10.1021/ic0508371
Author: Michael Grätzel
Institution: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2156328797