University of Silesia in Katowice

Developing new dye-sensitised solar cells with a photoactive layer made of natural organic dyes obtained from phytoplankton (among others cyanobacteria and green algae) and chokeberry with the use of an innovative method for ultrasonic spraying.

keywords: photovoltaics, solar cells, dye-sensitised cells, spray coater, ultrasonic spraying, natural organic dyes

The project will use dyes and mixtures of dyes, which have not yet been used to produce dye-sensitised cells. Dyes obtained from, among others, cyanobacteria are of particular importance in this context. Searching for the use of such materials is connected with the challenges of water bodies where anthropopressure leads to cyanobacterial bloom. The research goals related to the mechanisms of changing the absorption activity of cyanobacteria depending on insolation are relevant in this aspect, as they can contribute to developing methods increasing the functionality of dye-sensitised solar cells.

An important element of the project will be the use of ultrasonic spraying, which enables layering on nonconducting surfaces made of materials with limited resistance to high temperature and pressure. Forming drops of a solution with the use of ultrasounds of a defined frequency makes it possible to limit the drop-sized dispersion, and consequently an arithmetic deviation of the pore size on a surface. Proper preparation of a surface for specific dyes contributes to a more stable fixation of dye on a semiconductor surface and better electron transport, as well as prevents the agglomeration of dyes particles on a semiconductor surface. It is also planned to activate and modify surfaces in order to increase cell stability. Dye-sensitised solar cells are non-toxic, can work in low light conditions, have high efficiency inside buildings, do not need advanced manufacturing technology, and give the possibility of large-scale production while maintaining low CO2 emission.