Dye-sensitized solar cells containing photoelectrodes with TiO2 grids

Abstract A 90-nm-thick TiO 2 grid is created through photolithography, sputtering and lift-off process in this study. A nanoporous film is deposited on the TiO 2 grid. The grid induces a protrusive structure in the nanoporous film. Experimental results demonstrate that introducing the TiO 2 grid into a dye-sensitized solar cell increases its power conversion efficiency by 25% compared to a dye-sensitized solar cell lacking a TiO 2 grid. Consequently, the TiO 2 grid proves beneficial in augmenting the power conversion efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell. The increased power conversion efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell containing the TiO 2 grid is attributed to the large surface area and directional electron transport channels of the protrusive structure. The TiO 2 grid offers advantages such as simple fabrication, cost-effective production and improved power conversion efficiency.