Fabrication and Characterization of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells using Locally Sourced Natural Dyes and Synthetic Organic Dyes as Photosensitizers

Cooperating countries: Nigeria and Austria

Coordinating institution: Redeemer's University, Alexander Adesina Willoughby, willoughbya@run.edu.ng

Partner institutions: Johannes Kepler University

Project duration: 1 June 2023 - 31 May 2025

Abstract:

The relatively low energy conversion efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) is a key challenge hindering the commercialization of the solar cell. The photochemical performance of the dye used as a photosensitizer for the DSSC greatly determines the efficiency of the solar cell. Besides, the dye absorbance, light scattering, and photoelectron injection in TiO2 semiconductor also contribute to the energy conversion efficiency of a DSSC. In this project, different locally sourced natural dyes in Nigeria will be investigated to determine those with high energy conversion efficiencies suitable for the fabrication of high-performance DSSCs. Synthesis of these dyes will be carried out to mimic the molecular moieties found in natural dyes observed to be the best candidates for photosensitizers in DSSCs. Additionally, Metal-Organic frameworks (MOFs) have the potential to improve the generation of photocurrent in DSSCs by utilizing the advantage of its highly ordered, functionally tuneable supramolecular properties. Therefore, MOFs would also be exploredas sensitizer in the fabrication of DSSCs towards enhancing the energy conversion efficiency of the solar cell. Success in this project would contribute greatly to the development of highly efficient DSSCs to produce clean, affordable, and sustainable energy which is in tandem with the United Nation SDGs #7 and #13.