Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)

Dye + hν → Dye* → Dye+ + e (into TiO2)

Übersicht

In a Grätzel cell, a ruthenium dye absorbs sunlight and injects an electron into the conduction band of nanocrystalline TiO₂. An iodide/triiodide electrolyte regenerates the dye. Invented by Michael Grätzel in 1991, these cells achieve 12–14% efficiency and can work in diffuse light and from flexible substrates.

Alltägliches Beispiel

Dye-sensitized solar cells can be made in colors and transparent forms, envisioned for building-integrated photovoltaics in windows.

Industrielle Bedeutung

DSSCs are commercialized for indoor energy harvesting in IoT devices and decorative solar panels. They work well under low-light conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)?
The balanced equation is: Dye + hν → Dye* → Dye⁺ + e⁻ (into TiO₂).
What type of reaction is Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)?
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell) is a photochemical reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell) exothermic or endothermic?
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell) is endothermic (absorbs energy).
What conditions are needed for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Ruthenium bipyridyl dye).