Cocktail effect of Fe2O3 and TiO2 semiconductors for a high performance dye-sensitized solar cell

The bi-semiconductors of TiO2 and Fe2O3 were used as a photoelectrode material in a high performance dye-sensitized solar cell due to cocktail effects from the two conduction bands. The size of the semiconductors was reduced by using a paint shaker to enlarge the contact area of the semiconductor with the dye or electrolyte. The fill factor and the efficiency of the prepared dye-sensitized solar cell were improved by over 16% and 300%, respectively; these parameters were measured from a current-voltage curve that was based on the effects of the Fe2O3 co-semiconductor and the size reduction. A mechanism is suggested wherein the conduction band of Fe2O3 works to prohibit the trapping effects of electrons in the conduction band of TiO2. This result is attributed to the prevention of electron recombination between electrons in the TiO2 conduction band with dye or electrolytes. The mechanism is suggested based on impedance results, which indicate improved electron transport at the interface of the TiO2/dye/electrolyte. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.