Optimization of perovskite and dye-sensitized solar cells

With the current push towards sustainability and renewable energy, research on solar energy becomes more prominent as it is one of the cleanest forms of energy available. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and its more efficient derivative, perovskite-sensitized solar cells (PSSCs), are cost-effective solar devices capable of harvesting the sun’s energy to produce electricity. Incorporating titania nanorodes and semi-nanotubes into these solar cells will allow for more surface area for the sensitizers to adhere to as well as provide more efficient transport from electrode to electrode. Due to the tendency towards these cells to degrade due to liquid electrolyte degradation, incorporating a more stable solid radical polymer as the electrolyte is proposed. The student will test the cells for its efficiency, nanostructure, and electrical properties. It is expected that the incorporation of titania nanorode and semi-nanotubes with the new electrolyte will increase the efficiency of the devices thus improving its competitiveness with current DSSC and PSSC models.

Faculty Supervisor:

Giovanni Fanchini

Student:

Partner:

University of Tsukuba

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

Western University

Program: