Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Mimics Nature

When I think of solar cells, I usually think of blue panels with thin metal lines patterned on the surface. These are crystalline silicon cells - the most common in industry. Commercial silicon solar cells are ~15% efficient.

There are about ten different solar cell designs that seem to have commercial potential. One approach that I am really interested in learning more about is the dye-sensitive solar cell.



I am still trying to learn more about why this cell works so well in ambient light. I hope to track down some of the journal articles.

Titanium dioxide is the conductive matrix in the cell. It is a common enough compound (in toothpaste, for example). In these cells, however, it is formed as a nanostructure sponge.


The scientists behind the dye-sensitized cell indicate that the cell mimics photosynthesis in the way that charge is shuttled through a redox reaction.