Solar energy is a free, readily available, and plentiful resource that can be collected by solar cells to generate electricity. Although solar cells have been around for a long time, their use for energy production is not widespread because traditional solar cell technology is expensive and inefficient. Based on a growing need to explore alternative energy resources, solar cell technology offers an innovative way to conceptualize redox reactions in chemistry. Rather than teaching students <i>about</i> sustainable development, this lab leverages students’ perceptions of agency by teaching them skills <i>for</i> sustainable development. Using green chemistry technology, participants will construct a dye-sensitized solar cell using blackberries and other environmentally friendly materials. The presentation will expalin how the materials, product, and process meet the cost, safety, and performance criteria of green chemistry technology. After construction of the solar cells is complete, participants will measure the voltage output of their solar cells and discuss how this emergent technology relates to the engineering and design elements in the Next Generation Science Standards.

Beyond Benign solar cell technology: Making dye-sensitized solar cells with blackberries

255th National Meeting (2018)

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