Nanoparticle/Core-Shell Composite Structures with Superior Optical and Electrochemical Properties in a Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell

Abstract

The dynamics of competition between kinetic electron generation and recombination have restricted the development of a higher-performance dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC). The key to minimizing the competition is optimizing the nanostructures and thickness of the photoelectrode film. It has been reported that the optimum thickness of photoelectrode film to achieve high-performance efficiency is about 12–14 µm. In this study, a photoelectrode film, which is approximately 4 µm thinner compared with those previously reported and has improved performance efficiency, was successfully developed by using composite nanoparticles and core-shell structures. The fabricated DSSC shows an enhanced light scattering, improved dye absorption capability, and reduced electron recombination rate despite the thinner photoelectrode film. The synthesized elongated nanoparticle structure provides a larger surface area for anchoring more dye molecules. In addition, the micron-sized core-shell structures with different refractive indexes of the inner and outer material resulted in multiple refractions and closed-loop light confinement. The successful development of a high-performance thin photoelectrode film will lead to material and cost savings.