My Experiment: Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC)

B Y : A L D E N D A N I E L 1 0 / 1 5 / 2 0 1 2

Picture Reference: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/90/Solar_cell.png

Experiment  Testing the effectiveness of different dyes (fruit juices) in dye-sensitized solar cells Picture Reference: http://hometowncolumbia.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/strawberry_blueberry.jpg?w=490

Materials       Clear conductive surface (ITO glass) Electron donor (organic dye) Electron receiver (TiO 2 ) Electrolyte (I 3 + H 2 O ) Voltmeter SUN

How it Works?

Reference: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHTbw5jy6qU

What it Looks Like  Detailed procedure available upon request!

Picture Reference: Research on the usability of low-cost materials in dye sensitized solar cells

Results Dye Red Wine Number 1 Red Wine Number 2 Hibiscus Extract in Water Hibiscus Extract in Water/Ethanol 1/1 N719 Ru 0,25 mmol/l in ethanol 96% Circuit Voltage /mV 440 290 370 445 460 Light Intensity mW/cm² 16 16 30 30 30 Data Reference: Research on the usability of low-cost materials in dye sensitized solar cells

Improvements     Test for durability Test an array of potential dyes Different back electrode Different catalyst

Conclusion  Young Technology  Cheap  ANYONE CAN DO IT!

References  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHTbw5jy6q U  Research on the usability of low-cost materials in dye sensitized solar cells

Questions?