Fabrication and Characterization of Sustainable and Ecofriendly Textile-based Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells using Natural Dyes as Photosensitizers

Cooperating countries: Nigeria and Austria

Coordinating institution: Johannes Kepler University Linz, Serdar Niyazi Sariciftci Serdar.Sariciftci@jku.at 

Partner institution: Redeemers University

Project duration: 

Budget: EUR 40.000

Abstract: 

Textile-based dye-sensitized solar cells (TDSSCs) offer potential as energy sources for wearable electronics due to the advantageous properties of textile materials. Dyes are crucial as photosensitizers, influencing the flexible solar cell's functionality and performance. Typically, TDSSCs employ non-biodegradable synthetic dyes containing toxic heavy metals. However, substituting these with affordable and biodegradable natural dyes can yield cost-effective and eco-friendly TDSSCs. In this study, various local natural dyes will be explored to identify those suitable as photosensitizers, characterized by a broad absorption spectrum for TDSSCs. Metal oxide semiconductors like TiO2 and ZnO function as photoanodes for TDSSCs but face challenges such as prolonged dye absorption times, dye complex formation, and elevated charge recombination at the electrolyte interface. These issues may be mitigated by incorporating metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) into the photoanodes, leveraging their interconnected porosity, extensive specific surface area, improved electron transport, and functional intra-framework characteristics. This research aims to integrate different MOF structures into ZnO photoanodes to enhance dye loading capacity and reduce charge recombination losses. The project will also showcase the use of polymer-based gel and MOF-based electrolytes to bolster the long-term stability of TDSSCs. This initiative is expected to significantly advance the development of low-cost and environmentally friendly textile-based DSSCs as sustainable energy sources for wearable devices in sports and health applications. Additionally, the project aims to foster research collaboration between Austrian and African scholars while supporting the United Nations SDGs #7 (Affordable and clean energy), #13 (Climate action), and #3 (Good health and wellbeing).