Solar Energy Conversion by Dye-Sensitized Photovoltaic Cells

TLDR

Human life quality depends on energy availability, which is threatened unless renewable resources are developed, and chemistry is expected to help find environmentally friendly solutions. The article discusses developing solar cells based on dye or quantum dot sensitization of mesoscopic oxide films. The article explains light harvesting by the sensitizer, electron transfer into the semiconductor conduction band, percolative migration through the mesoporous film, and discusses research topics and first outdoor applications. These systems have already reached conversion efficiencies exceeding 11%.

Abstract

The quality of human life depends to a large degree on the availability of energy. This is threatened unless renewable energy resources can be developed in the near future. Chemistry is expected to make important contributions to identify environmentally friendly solutions of the energy problem. One attractive strategy discussed in this Forum Article is the development of solar cells that are based on the sensitization of mesoscopic oxide films by dyes or quantum dots. These systems have already reached conversion efficiencies exceeding 11%. The underlying fundamental processes of light harvesting by the sensitizer, heterogeneous electron transfer from the electronically excited chromophore into the conduction band of the semiconductor oxide, and percolative migration of the injected electrons through the mesoporous film to the collector electrode will be described below in detail. A number of research topics will also be discussed, and the examples for the first outdoor application of such solar cells will be provided.