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Effects of using multi‐component electrolytes on the stability and properties of solar cells sensitized with simple organic dyes
Author(s) -
Giannouli M.,
Syrrokostas G.,
Yianoulis P.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
progress in photovoltaics: research and applications
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.286
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1099-159X
pISSN - 1062-7995
DOI - 10.1002/pip.952
Subject(s) - electrolyte , dye sensitized solar cell , iodine , iodide , ethylene carbonate , ethylene glycol , propylene carbonate , organic dye , electrochemistry , materials science , potassium , chemical engineering , chemistry , inorganic chemistry , electrode , organic chemistry , engineering
Abstract In this paper we present experimental results for electrochemical (dye‐sensitized) solar cells that were prepared in our laboratory in order to examine some of the major factors affecting the efficiency and the stability of such cells. Nanostructured TiO 2 thin films were prepared and sensitized using an organic dye. For the purpose of this study three different types of electrolytes were developed: a standard‐type electrolyte containing potassium iodide and iodine in propylene carbonate (PC) and two novel, multi‐component electrolytes containing potassium iodide and iodine dissolved in varying mixtures of PC and EG (ethylene glycol). It was demonstrated that the combined properties of the two solvents in the multi‐component electrolytes enhance the efficiency and improve considerably the stability of the cells. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.