Stabilizing molecular sensitizers in aqueous environs

The recent transition of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) from the lab to small-scale production validates the commercial viability of energy technologies that combine molecular functionality with nanomaterials. Commercialization of DSC technology is the result of advances in both device performance and lifetime. While academic researchers often focus on the former (performance), the latter (lifetime) is essential for commercial success. Increasing the lifetime of molecularly sensitized devices in either humid or aqueous environments will reduce device costs and enable a range of new device opportunities. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.