A Multilayer Iron‐Thionine Photogalvanic Cell

Abstract

The iron--thionine photogalvanic system is being studied for the direct conversion of solar energy to electricity. This communication reports the development of such a cell with two transparent semiconductor electrodes, which allows the construction of multilayer devices for increased conversion efficiency. Each layer contains a SnO/sub 2/ anode and an indium tin oxide cathode. The thionine was contained in the solution. The output of a four-layer cell was measured, and the efficiency of the multilayer device is estimated. Monochromatic quantum efficiencies were measured for single-layer cells as a function of wavelength and cell thickness; results indicate that 25 ..mu..m solution layers would be more efficient than 80 ..mu..m layers. Several thiazine dyes other than thionine can be used; results are reported for a cell containing one layer of thionine solution and one layer of methylene blue solution. (DLC)