Use of natural dyes for the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cell: A review

Abstract

The increasing concern for worldwide energy production is the result of global industrialization and decreasing energy resources. Despite the cost factor, solar energy continues to become more popular due to its long-term nature as a resource and growing conversion efficiency. A dye-sensitized solar cell converts visible light into electricity. The efficient use of dye as a sensitizer is the critical factor in enhancing the performance of the dye-sensitized solar cell. Natural dyes are found in abundance in leaves, flower petals, roots, and other natural resources. Due to the advantages of natural dyes such as cost-effectiveness, the simpler extraction process, and being environmentally friendly, etc., researchers are working extensively to replace synthetic dyes with natural ones. This paper highlights the various types of natural dyes and their effect on the efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell.