Anode growth of DSSCs by flat-flame chemical vapor deposition method

A unique method of flat-flame chemical vapor deposition, to synthesize nanostructured TiO2 film used for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is reported for the first time. This method produces nanostructures of TiO2 exactly ideal for the anode of the DSSCs. Results show that cells have characteristic I-V curves with fill factor typically around 70% and efficiency higher than 4%. A dendrite-like microstructure of anodes accounts for the high efficiency of the cell. The successful formation of dendrite-like microstructure provides a chance for sintering of TiO2 nanoparticles smaller than 20 nm, a possible cell efficiency enhancement by increased dye absorption due to the increased specific surface area of small particles. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.