Organic dyes based on donor-pi-acceptor structures have attracted considerable attentions as sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).  The major factors that limit the performance in these organic dye based DSSCs include the formation of the aggregates and the fast recombination at the interfaces of TiO2 photoanode and electrolytes.  Herein, we report the improved performance of DSSCs based on donor-pi-acceptor organic dyes through silane treatment.  After sensitization of TiO2 mesoporous film using organic dyes, the remaining undyed TiO2 surface is coated with alkyl chains through silane chemistry.  This approach is found to be effective in suppressing the recombination between electrons in TiO2 conduction band and the I3- in the electrolyte, confirmed by transient photovoltage and photocurrent measurements.  Consequently, the open-circuit voltage of the device is enhanced.

Effects of silane treatment on charge transport and recombination of dye-sensitized solar cells based on donor-pi-acceptor organic dyes

246th National Meeting (2013)

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