Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) is an advanced type of thin film solar cell or photovoltaic cell that converts any visible light into electrical energy. A dye-sensitized solar cell is made of a layer of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and is covered with a molecular dye that absorbs sunlight. The dye-sensitized solar cell is a technically and economically dependable substitute of p\u2013n junction solar cell. Titanium dioxide nanoparticle-based solar cell gives added efficiency of over 10%. It was invented by Prof. Michael Graetzel and Dr Brian O\u2019Regan in 1991.Sometimes it referred to as Gratzel cell or G-cell.<\/p>\n
How does DSSC work?
\nThe dyes of DSSC are made of photoactive material. When sunlight falls onto the dye layer, the dye catches the photons of incoming light and absorbs energy, which enables the dye to enter an excited state and emit electrons. These excited electrons are injected into the Titanium Dioxide. The electrons are diffused towards the transparent electrode and they are collected for powering a load. After flowing through the external circuit electrons are re-directed into the cell on a metal electrode on the back of the cell. Then the electrons are returned back to the dye.
\nAdvantages of Dye-sensitized solar cell over a silicon based solar cell
\nIt can work at wider angles which makes the cells absorb more sunlight. It also works in cloudy and low-light conditions while silicon solar cell requires more intense sunlight. These cells do not require frequent replacements because these are long lasting. These are made of eco-friendly nano-materials. They are light in weight and mechanically robust and hence require no special protection from rain or any other harsh object. Besides all of these, the silicon cells are heated easily and hence the efficiency is reduced and it requires protection by covering a glass plate. This situation is eliminated in DSSC. DSSC is made up of thin conducting plastic top layer that helps to radiate heat and is able to operate at low internal temperatures. It helps in increasing the efficiency of the solar cells.
\nDisadvantages of Dye-sensitized solar cell
\nDespite plenty advantages, it has some disadvantages too. The main disadvantage is that the liquid electrolyte is temperature sensitive. At a lower temperature, the electrolytes freeze and at a higher one, liquid electrolyte expands in volume and thus the cell becomes completely unusable. Besides liquid evaporation causes serious problems. However, replacing the liquid electrolyte with a solid has been a major ongoing field of research. The other problem is that DSCC is not manufactured on commercial scale.
\nDSSC has an encouraging future in becoming a major contributor to renewable power generation. Simple manufacturing process, cheap materials and a wide range of applications help Dye-sensitized solar cell to find a foothold in the modern technological market.<\/p>\n
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