Performance Enhancement of Eucalyptus Extract Based Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Using TiO2/Embedded Capsaicin Photoanode

The aim of this study is the realization and characterization of Gratzel cells (dye sensitized solar cells or DSSCs) based on a natural dye sensitizer. We have scrutinized the eucalyptus globulus extract as a photosensitizer in our tested cells. Our prepared dye was isolated from the leaves of eucalyptus using ethanol and acetic acid as solvents. For the assembly of our DSSCs, we have selected specific components among the set of samples prepared based on their best performances. The coated semiconductor on the substrate inside the photoanode is a TiO2 paste that was already prepared and marketed under the name acrylic satin titanium white color (first of all, it was used without any modification. Secondly, it was used after being diluted once more with water. Finally, it was used after being diluted once more with capsaicin). This titanium white was deposited by the Doctor Blade method. Regarding the electrolyte, we have used the one based on distilled water as a solvent containing the iodide/triiodide redox couple and the di-Ammonium oxalate monohydrate as additive. For the final component, we have used a graphite pencil onto the counter electrode. Our results were obtained by the use of: XRD analysis, spectrophotometer, SEM, conductometer, and I-V characteristic. The highest performance was achieved with the eucalyptus dye used on the TiO2 layer diluted with capsaicin: 3.203mA for I-sc, 790mV for V-oc, 0.574 for the fill factor FF, and an efficiency of 1.452%. The obtained values are promising to further investigate the eucalyptus globulus extract for applicability in DSSCs for improving the efficiency.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to realize and characterize Gratzel cells based on a natural dye sensitizer. The eucalyptus globulus extract was used as a photosensitizer and the dye was isolated from eucalyptus leaves using ethanol and acetic acid as solvents. The best-performing components were selected for the assembly of the dye-sensitized solar cells. The highest performance was achieved with the eucalyptus dye used on the diluted TiO2 layer, suggesting its potential for improving the efficiency of DSSCs.