Onion peel based natural dye sensitized solar cells

Abstract

The present invention relates to solar cells utilizing natural dye from waste onion peels employed onto pure zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide semiconductors. Waste onion peels are collected (101), cleaned (102), shredded and used as a raw material for dye extraction with ethanol solvent. The crude anthocyanin rich dye obtained from the onion peels is used for fabricating the solar cells. Pure zinc oxide (103) and copper doped zinc oxide (104) are synthesized by standard procedures. Carbon counter electrode is preferred for reduced cost of the device. The cells are assembled with the materials as per the standard procedures and its photovoltaic performance measured. Conventional Iodine / triiodide electrolyte is used in the cell. The cell fabricated (110) with copper doped zinc oxide showed outstanding performance compared to the pure semiconductor. Fig. 1

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] This present invention relates to the field of power generation, more specifically to the power generation from waste onion peels. The present invention uses anthocyanin pigment extracted from onion peels by simple and cost-effective extraction procedures. This present invention also relates to the application of pure zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide to the Dye sensitized solar cells. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Research on renewable energy technologies is ever increasing in the present scenario. The potential of solar energy in power production had attracted researchers worldwide. The semiconductor material acts as an essential component in predicting the conversion efficiency of the device.

[0003] Other than the components of a dye sensitized solar cell, the natural dye plays an important role in the overall performance of a Dye Sensitized solar cell. It is appealing for the eco-friendly technology of producing electricity from the abundantly available sunlight.

[0004] There are several publications highlighting the importance of zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide for a variety of environmental applications. The significance of the pigment present in the onion peels are also highlighted by various researchers worldwide.

[0005] The patent Literature US20090020159A1 entitled "Dye sensitized Solar Cell" describes the operating principle and the mechanism taking place at various components of the cell in generating electricity. The energy levels involved during the operation of the device such as electron donation, electron regeneration, electrolyte regeneration are clearly discussed.

[0006] The patent Literature CN106128768B entitled "A kind of dye sensitized solar cells and preparation method thereof" investigated on the application of copper doped zinc oxide employing iodophor electrolyte and plant extraction liquid as the sensitizer for enhanced photovoltaic efficiency.

[0007] In the patent literature 6 JP5192154B2 entitled "Method for producing dye-sensitized solar cell" investigates on the synthesis of zinc oxide semiconductor thin film by electrodeposition method for enhanced photovoltaic performance.

[0008] In the patent literature 7 KR20110105190A entitled "Semiconductor device having zno nanostructure and dye-sensitized solar cell using the same" investigates on the synthesis of zinc oxide nanostructure to increase the photovoltaic parameters of the device such as open circuit voltage, short circuit current, fill factor and power conversion efficiency.

[0009] In the patent literature ES2624615T3 entitled "Particulate zinc oxide with dopant ions of manganese, ion and copper " signifies the importance of dopants in improved light absorption of the electromagnetic spectrum. Once the absorption region is expanded, a remarkable photovoltaic performance of the device could be in turn observed.

[0010] The literature titled "Structural and optical properties of pure and copper doped zinc oxide nanoparticles" enumerates on the synthesis of pure and copper doped zincoxide nanoparticles through chemical precipitation method using hydrazine as a reducing agent. It also investigates on the effect of copper doping on the crystal structure of zincoxide nanoparticles, its optical bandgap and photoluminescence studies.

[0011] The literature entitled " Synthesis of Doped Zinc oxide nanoparticles: A Review" highlights on the various methods available for synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles with different metal dopants in order to increase their viability in optoelectronics, chemical sensing, photocatalysis etc.

[0012] The scientific Literature entitled "The effect of copper doping on the mechanical and optical properties of Zinc oxide nanowires synthesized by hydrothermal route" investigates on the synthesis of zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide nanowires by means of hydrothermal route. The morphology of these wide bandgap semiconductors are investigated to check for their applicability in photovoltaics and other nanodevices. The results prove that there is a strong correlation between doping, growing conditions ,morphology on the mechanical and optical properties of the synthesized nanowires.

[0013] The literature entitled " mixed dye from nerium oleander and hibiscus flowers as a photosensitizer in Dye sensitized solar cells" investigates the presence of anthocyanins in the chosen raw materials. The light absorption behavior of the dyes were confirmed and the photovoltaic parameters of both single dyes and mixed dye were measured under standard conditions.

[0014] The scientific literature entitled " Natural anthocyanins as photosensitizers for dye sensitized solar devices" focused on extracting natural pigments such as anthocyanins from various tropical flowers. Their possibility as photosensitizers in dye sensitized solar cells were also studied. The DSSC's were assembled with titanium dioxide as a photosensitizer. The literature confirms the presence of anthocyanin pigment in Nerium Oleander.

[0015] The scientific literature entitled "Zinc-oxide based dye sensitized solar cells using natural and synthetic sensitizers " compares the performance of natural and synthetic photosensitizers. Zinc oxide produced by green synthesis technique is preferred as a semiconductor material and its structural properties studied. The absorption spectra of the dyes are measured and their performance in the fabricated cells are investigated.

[0016] The utilization of onion peels, a byproduct of domestic activities, for anthocyanin dye extraction underscores a commitment to harnessing power from natural and easily accessible materials. This stands in stark contrast to certain patented or scientific processes that may rely on synthetic or less sustainable sources for pigment extraction.

[0017] The extraction process employs ethanol as a solvent, strategically minimizing the use of harsh chemicals and advocating for an environmentally friendly approach. In contrast, certain patented or scientific methods may involve the deployment of chemicals harmful to the environment, underscoring the eco-friendly nature of this extraction process.

[0018] The absence of harsh chemicals and pollutants in both the anthocyanin dye extraction and the subsequent fabrication of the solar cell contributes to a pollution-free methodology. In certain patented or scientific procedures, the use of pollutants or the generation of waste may be prevalent, differentiating this process for its eco-conscious practices.

[0019] Efficient resource utilization is a hallmark of this process, as it maximizes the use of onion peels - a natural waste material, showcasing a sustainable approach to resource management. In contrast, some processes heavily rely on synthetic or specialized materials, potentially leading to resource scarcity and heightened environmental impact.

[0020] The use of onion peels and the avoidance of complex chemical procedures significantly contribute to the cost-effectiveness of the extraction and purification process. This stands in contrast to certain patented or scientific approaches that may involve intricate procedures or require expensive materials, thereby diminishing their cost-effectiveness in comparison to this method.

[0021] The fabrication of zinc oxide and copper-doped zinc oxide-based devices is characterized by straightforward procedures, enhancing accessibility and feasibility for widespread use. In comparison, certain processes may involve intricate steps, specialized equipment, or stringent conditions, limiting their adaptability for widespread use.

[0022] The fabricated cells demonstrate an impressive sunlight-to-electricity conversion efficiency of 1.85%, notably surpassing typical Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) based on natural materials. This noteworthy achievement positions the described method as highly effective in harnessing solar energy, marking a significant advancement in the field.

[0023] In summary, the highlighted process showcases superiority over certain patent and scientific processes in terms of power generation from natural materials, environmental friendliness, pollution-free practices, efficient resource utilization, cost-effectiveness, simplicity of the fabrication procedure, and outstanding conversion efficiency.OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The primary objective of the present Invention is to synthesize copper doped zinc oxide semiconductor material through chemical route and to study its behavior in solar cells.

[0025] The secondary objective of this Invention is to synthesize pure un - doped zinc oxide semiconductor material with wide band gap by means of chemical synthesis.

[0026] Another objective of the present invention is to develop suitable electrolyte for natural sensitizers from plant extracts.

[0027] Another objective of the present invention is to produce a multi layered Zinc oxide and doped zinc oxide working electrodes using cost effective Doctor Blade Technique for enhanced optical properties and photovoltaic performance.

[0028] Another objective of the present invention is to utilize the carbon generated from burnt waste newspapers. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0029] The following summary is provided to facilitate a clear understanding of the new features in the disclosed embodiment and it is not intended to be a full, detailed description. A detailed description of all the aspects of the disclosed invention can be understood by reviewing the full specification, the drawing and the claims and the abstract, as a whole.

[0030] The presented invention focuses on an eco-friendly approach to anthocyanin dye extraction and the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) utilizing readily available and sustainable materials. Onion peels, typically discarded as waste from domestic activities, serve as the primary raw material for anthocyanin dye extraction. Through a meticulous process involving shredding, cleaning, and extraction with 98% ethanol, a rich anthocyanin pigment is obtained. Phytochemical analysis confirms the presence of anthocyanins in the crude dye. Subsequently, the invention extends to the fabrication of pure zinc oxide and copper-doped zinc oxide-based devices, crucial components of DSSCs. The synthesis of these semiconductor materials involves a carefully controlled process, ensuring the creation of efficient and durable electrodes for solar cells.

[0031] The final phase of the invention involves the assembly of DSSCs using the fabricated zinc oxide and copper-doped zinc oxide electrodes. Standard procedures are followed to prepare working electrodes coated on Indium-doped Tin oxide (ITO) glass plates, which are then annealed at 450 °C. The electrodes are soaked in a crude anthocyanin photosensitizer, extracted from onion peels, for 24 hours. A cost-effective carbon electrode is prepared from waste newspaper soot, serving as the cathode. The space between the electrodes is filled with a cobalt-based electrolyte. Photovoltaic parameters, including open circuit voltage, short circuit current, fill factor, and overall conversion efficiency, are measured under standard conditions using a solar simulator. Remarkably, the DSSCs exhibit an outstanding sunlight-to-electricity conversion efficiency of 1.85%, surpassing typical DSSCs based on natural materials. This innovation represents a significant stride in sustainable solar cell technology, harnessing the potential of natural materials for efficient and environmentally conscious energy conversion.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The manner in which the present invention works is given in a more particular description below, briefly summarized above. Throughout the drawings, the same drawing reference numerals will be understood to refer to the same elements and features.

[0033] The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description along with the accompanying figures, which forms a part of this application.

[0034] Fig 1: The schematic Illustration preferred for the application of the synthesized wide band gap oxide semiconductors with natural anthocyanin-based sensitizer from onion peels is shown in accordance with our present invention.REFERENCE NUMERALS101 - The raw anthocyanin rich dye is extracted from the cleaned and shredded raw material onion peels by soaking for 48 h in 98% ethanol as solvent for extraction102 -The crude extract obtained is filtered twice and stored at room temperature without exposure to direct sunlight103 - The wide band gap oxide semiconductor zinc oxide is synthesized through chemical route a 104 - Copper doped zinc oxide is synthesized through chemical route105 - The working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plates and annealed at a temperature of 500 °C 106 - Another working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared copper doped zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plates and annealed at a temperature of 500 °C 107 - The two photo-anodes are further cooled to room temperature and soaked in the anthocyanin photosensitizer for 48 hr. The stained electrode is rinsed with excess ethanol and air dried108 - The cost-effective carbon electrode is prepared. Carbon soot from burning waste newspaper is deposited onto the cleaned ITO glass plate and treated as cathode 109 - Cobalt Electrolyte is prepared as per the standard procedure to replace the conventional Iodide / tri-iodide electrolyte with the aim of increasing the open circuit voltage 110 - Two Cells were fabricated with pure zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide materials as semiconductor and anthocyanin dye as the photosensitizer. Cobalt electrolyte and carbon counter electrode are preferred for fabrication. Standard procedures were followed for fabricating the cells. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] The principles of Operation, design configurations and evaluation values in these non-limiting examples can be varied and are merely cited to illustrate at least one embodiment of the Invention, without limiting the scope thereof.

[0036] The embodiments disclosed herein can be expressed in different forms and should not be considered as limited to the listed embodiments in the disclosed Invention. The various embodiments outlined in the subsequent sections are construed such that it provides a complete and a thorough understanding of the disclosed invention, by clearly describing the scope of the invention, for those skilled in the art.

[0037] The present invention is to develop a highly improved natural based dye sensitized solar cell with wide band gap oxide semiconductors, as shown in figure 1. The semiconductor present in the working electrode plays a pivotal role in determining the overall conversion efficiency of the device. In this regard, two types of materials pure un-doped zinc oxide and doped zinc oxide are synthesized by means of chemical route. Zinc oxide is doped with copper to increase power output. Natural dye from onion peels is extracted and used as a photosensitizer to fabricate the cells. Cobalt electrolyte is preferred instead of the traditional iodide / triiodide electrolyte to increase the open-circuit voltage. Additionally, as platinum is expensive in nature, with the aim of decreasing the cost involved in fabricating the solar cell, carbon-based electrode produced from burning waste newspaper is used to assemble the cell.1. Extraction and purification of anthocyanin rich dye.

[0038] Onion peels discarded as waste material from domestic activities were used as Raw material for anthocyanin dye extraction. The peels were shredded into pieces and cleaned with distilled water to remove dirt and other unwanted materials present. About 1 g of cleaned and air-dried peels were taken in a beaker and 20 mL of 98% ethanol is used as the solvent for pigment extraction. The beaker is covered with aluminum foil to avoid evaporation losses of organic solvent. The sample is placed in a magnetic stirrer and stirred continuously for 3 h at ambient temperature. The resultant extract is filtered twice to get rid of solid material and stored without exposure to direct sunlight.2. Phytochemical analysis of crude dye extracted.

[0039] The following test procedures were carried out with the crude plant extract to confirm the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids and anthocyanins. The deep pinkish red color also confirms the presence of anthocyanin pigment in the extract.

[0040] Test for tannins: Add 1ml of crude and 5% of ferric chloride is added formation of dark blue colour shows the presence of tannins.

[0041] Test for saponins: Add 1 mL of crude and 2 mL of double distilled water formation foam while shaking shows the presence of saponins.

[0042] Test for flavonoids: Add 1mL of crude and 2 mL of 2N sodium hydroxide, formation of yellow color indicates the presence of flavonoids.

[0043] Test for anthocyanin: Add 1 mL of crude and 2 mL of 2N sodium hydroxide and heat it for 10 min at 40 °C, formation of bluish green color indicates presence of anthocyanin 3. Preparation of pure zinc oxide.

[0044] Double distilled water is mixed with zinc acetate and then stirred for about 30 mins. Double distilled water is mixed with sodium hydroxide and then stirred for 30 min. Sodium hydroxide is added dropwise into the zinc acetate mixture under stirring condition in room temperature. A white drop like precipitate is formed immediately. The solution further stirred for 2 h, the Precipitate is allowed to settle down for ageing for overnight. The White precipitate is filtered, washed several times with distilled water and dried in furnace for 2 hour at 500 o C. 4: Preparation of copper doped zinc oxide.

[0045] Double distilled water is mixed with zinc acetate and then stirred for about 30 min. Double distilled water is mixed with sodium hydroxide and then stirred for about 30 min. Double distilled water is mixed with copper nitrate and then stirred for about 30min. Copper nitrate is added dropwise into the mixture containing zinc acetate and sodium hydroxide under stirring condition in room temperature. A white drop like precipitate is formed immediately. The solution further stirred for 2 h, the precipitate is allowed to settle down for ageing for overnight. The white precipitate is filtered, washed several times with distilled water and dried in furnace for 2 h at 500 °C. 5: Preparation of working electrodes.

[0046] Two working electrodes or anode is prepared by following standard procedures. One working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plate and annealed at a temperature of 450 °C and another working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared copper doped zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plate and annealed at a temperature of 450 °C. The two photo-anodes are further cooled to room temperature and soaked in the crude anthocyanin photosensitizer for 24 hr. The stained electrode is rinsed with excess ethanol and air dried.6: Synthesis of cobalt based electrolyte.

[0047] The cobalt-based electrolyte is prepared by the following composition. bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide lithium (0.1 M), 4-tert-butylpyridine (0.5 M) in acetonitrile, Co(phen)3 (0.3 M) and nitrosonium tetrafluoroborate (75 mM).7: Preparation of Counter Electrode.

[0048] A cost-effective carbon electrode is prepared. Carbon soot from burning waste newspaper is deposited onto the cleaned ITO glass plate and treated as cathode. 8: Fabrication of DSSC with pure zinc oxide semiconductor.

[0049] The pure zinc oxide electrode is dipped in deep pink anthocyanin dye for 24 h at ordinary room temperature. The dye sensitized photo electrodes were washed with ethanol to remove the excess dye and further dried in air. The semiconductor is coated with a deep pink anthocyanin dye. Carbon produced from burning waste newspaper is coated onto the glass plate and treated as counter electrode. Both the glass plates were sandwiched with each other and the space between the electrodes were filled with cobalt based electrolyte.9: Fabrication of DSSC with copper doped zinc oxide semiconductor.

[0050] The copper doped zinc oxide electrode is dipped in deep pink anthocyanin dye for 24 h at ordinary room temperature. The dye sensitized photo electrodes were washed with ethanol to remove the excess dye and further dried in air. The semiconductor is coated with a deep pink anthocyanin dye. Carbon produced from burning waste newspaper is coated onto the glass plate and treated as counter electrode. Both the glass plates were sandwiched with each other and the space between the electrodes were filled with cobalt based electrolyte.10: Photovoltaic Measurement of the assembled cells.

[0051] Photovoltaic parameters of the fabricated cells such as open circuit voltage, short circuit current, fill factor and overall conversion efficiency were measured with a solar simulator under standard conditions showed the best sunlight to electricity conversion efficiencies of 1.85%. This is much higher for a DSSC based on natural materials.

[0052] The utilization of onion peels, a byproduct often discarded as waste, underscores a commitment to deriving power from natural and readily available materials. This natural source enhances sustainability and reduces dependence on synthetic alternatives.

[0053] The extraction process employs 98% ethanol as a solvent, minimizing the use of harsh chemicals and promoting an environmentally friendly approach. This contrasts with some processes that may involve harmful chemicals, making the presented method more eco-friendly.

[0054] The absence of harsh chemicals and pollutants in both the extraction of anthocyanin dye and the fabrication of the solar cell contributes to a pollution-free approach. This eco-conscious practice minimizes environmental harm compared to methods involving pollutants or generating waste.

[0055] The process maximizes the use of onion peels, an otherwise discarded natural waste material, showcasing an efficient and sustainable utilization of resources. This stands out against processes that may rely heavily on synthetic or specialized materials, potentially leading to resource scarcity and higher environmental impact.

[0056] The use of onion peels and the avoidance of complex chemical procedures contribute to the cost-effectiveness of the extraction and purification process. This simplicity contrasts with some approaches that involve complex procedures or require expensive materials, making them less cost-effective compared to this method.

[0057] The fabrication of zinc oxide and copper-doped zinc oxide-based devices involves straightforward procedures, making it accessible and feasible for widespread use. This simplicity is in contrast to processes that may involve intricate steps, specialized equipment, or highly controlled conditions, making them less adaptable for widespread use.

[0058] The fabricated cells demonstrate an impressive sunlight-to-electricity conversion efficiency of 1.85%, surpassing typical Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) based on natural materials. This remarkable efficiency positions the described method as highly effective in harnessing solar energy.

[0059] Example process of our present invention for utilizing leaves of Murraya Koenigii for making natural dye sensitized solar cells:

[0060] Extraction and purification of anthocyanin rich dye. Onion peels discarded as waste material from domestic activities were used as raw material for anthocyanin dye extraction. The peels were shredded into pieces and cleaned with distilled water to remove dirt and other unwanted materials present. About 1 g of cleaned and air-dried peels were taken in a beaker and 20 mL of 98% ethanol is used as the solvent for pigment extraction. The beaker is covered with aluminum foil to avoid evaporation losses of organic solvent. The sample is placed in a magnetic stirrer and stirred continuously for 3 h at ambient temperature. The resultant extract is filtered twice to get rid of solid material and stored without exposure to direct sunlight. The Phytochemical analysis of crude dye extracted is carried out to confirm the presence of anthocyanins.

[0061] Fabrication of pure zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide-based devices. Pure zinc oxide is prepared as per the following procedure. Double distilled water is mixed with zinc acetate and then stirred for about 30 mins. Double distilled water is mixed with sodium hydroxide and then stirred for 30 mins. Sodium hydroxide is added dropwise into the zinc acetate mixture under stirring condition in room temperature. A white drop like precipitate is formed immediately. The solution further stirred for 2 h, the precipitate is allowed to settle down for ageing for overnight. The White precipitate is filtered, washed several times with distilled water and dried in furnace for 2 h at 500 °C.

[0062] Copper doped zinc oxide is prepared as per the following procedure: Double distilled water is mixed with zinc acetate and then stirred for about 30 min. Double distilled water is mixed with sodium hydroxide and then stirred for about 30 min. Double distilled water is mixed with copper nitrate and then stirred for about 30 min. Copper nitrate is added dropwise into the mixture containing zinc acetate and sodium hydroxide under stirring condition in room temperature. A white drop like precipitate is formed immediately. The solution further stirred for 2 h, the precipitate is allowed to settle down for ageing for overnight. The White precipitate is filtered, washed several times with distilled water and dried in furnace for 2 h at 500 °C.

[0063] DSSC Fabrication: Two working electrodes are prepared by following standard procedures. One working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plate and annealed at a temperature of 450 °C and another working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared copper doped zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plate and annealed at a temperature of 450 °C. The two photo-anodes are further cooled to room temperature and soaked in the crude anthocyanin photosensitizer for 24 h. The stained electrode is rinsed with excess ethanol and air dried. The cobalt based electrolyte is prepared by the following composition. Bis (trifluoromethane) sulfonamide lithium (0.1 M), 4-tert-butylpyridine (0.5 M) in acetonitrile, Co(phen)3 (0.3 M) and nitrosonium tetrafluoroborate (75mM). A cost-effective carbon electrode is prepared. Carbon soot from burning waste newspaper is deposited onto the cleaned ITO glass plate and treated as cathode. The pure zinc oxide and doped electrode is dipped in deep pink anthocyanin dye for 24 h at ordinary room temperature. The dye sensitized photo electrodes were washed with ethanol to remove the excess dye and further dried in air. The semiconductor is coated with a deep pink anthocyanin dye. Carbon produced from burning waste newspaper is coated onto the glass plate and treated as counter electrode. Both the glass plates were sandwiched with each other and the space between the electrodes were filled with cobalt based electrolyte. Photovoltaic parameters of the fabricated cells such as open circuit voltage, short circuit current, fill factor and overall conversion efficiency were measured with a solar simulator under standard conditions showed the best sunlight to electricity conversion efficiencies of 1.85%. This is much higher for a DSSC based on natural materials.

[0064] While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of the ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed.

Claims

1. A fabrication method for de-sensitized solar cell device with natural based anthocyanin dye and new carbon-based counter electrode generated from waste newspaper which comprises of: a) raw anthocyanin rich dye is extracted from the cleaned and shredded raw onion peels by soaking for 48 h in 98% ethanol as solvent (101); b) crude extract obtained is filtered twice to remove the unwanted dirt and plant material, the filtrate is stored at room temperature without exposure to direct sunlight (102); c) wide band gap oxide semiconductor zinc oxide is synthesized through chemical route and its properties studied for its suitability in harnessing sunlight (103); d) Copper doped zinc oxide is synthesized through chemical route and its properties analyzed for its suitability in dye sensitized solar cells (104); e) working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plates and annealed at a temperature of 500 °C (105); f) another working electrode is prepared by coating the prepared copper doped zinc oxide semiconductor paste in multilayers onto the Indium doped Tin oxide (ITO) Coated glass plates and annealed at a temperature of 500 °C (106); g) two photo-anodes are further cooled to room temperature and soaked in the anthocyanin photosensitizer for 48 h. The stained electrode is rinsed with excess ethanol and air dried (107); h) carbon soot from burning waste newspaper is deposited onto the cleaned ITO glass plate and treated as cathode (108); i) cobalt electrolyte is prepared as per the standard procedure to replace the conventional Iodide / tri-iodide electrolyte with the aim of increasing the open circuit voltage (109); j) two cells were fabricated with pure zinc oxide and copper doped zinc oxide materials as semiconductor and anthocyanin dye as the photosensitizer, wherein cobalt electrolyte and carbon counter electrode are preferred for fabrication; and k) photovoltaic parameters such as open circuit voltage, short circuit current, fill factor and overall conversion efficiency were measured with a solar simulator under standard conditions (110); wherein, a multilayered pure and doped zinc oxide semiconductor coating is adopted for enhanced optical properties and increased photovoltaic output from the natural based device.

2. The fabrication method for de-sensitized solar cell device with natural based anthocyanin dye and new carbon-based counter electrode generated from waste newspaper, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the carbon soot from burning waste newspaper is coated onto the glass plate and treated as the device cathode.