A dye-sensitized solar cell having polyaniline species in each component with 3.1%-efficiency

Pursuit of technological implementation with no sacrifice of photovoltaic performances has been a persistent objective for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We launch here the experimental realization of a class of DSSCs consisting of polyaniline (PANi) incorporated TiO2 anodes, PANi counter electrodes (CEs), and iodide doped PANi solid-state electrolytes. The PANi filled in photoanode can inject electrons for dye recovery, whereas the PANi CE fulfills the function of reducing triiodide into iodide ions. In particular, the solid PANi electrolyte has an ability of catalyzing triiodide species, shortening charge diffusion path length, and recovering dye molecules at anode/electrolyte interface. The photovoltaic performances are optimized by adjusting assembly process and lithium iodide dosage, yielding a maximum efficiency as high as 3.1% in the resultant DSSC device accompanied with fast start-up, multiple start/stop cycling, and good stability under persistent irradiation.