Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Absorber Layer Fabrication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) face low efficiency and high production costs due to complex engineering processes, short lifespan, and inefficiencies in energy storage, leading to unreliable solar power systems.

Innovation Solution

A method of fabricating a photovoltaic absorber layer using an anodic paste comprising titanium dioxide nanoparticles, dyes, and electrolytes applied to a transparent conductive substrate, which is then sandwiched with a cathodic element and sealed to enhance energy generation and storage efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional thin-film fabrication processes are used for DSSC, then the device can be manufactured, but the efficiency is low and production costs are high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy conversion efficiencyVSAvoidfabrication complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical state and composition parameters of the absorber layer by using a slurry mixture of TiO2 nanoparticles, dye, and electrolyte instead of conventional thin-film materials. This parameter change enables higher light absorption efficiency while maintaining ease of fabrication through simple coating processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a composite photovoltaic absorber layer combining TiO2 nanoparticles, organic dye molecules, and electrolyte in a slurry formulation. This composite structure integrates the light-absorbing properties of dye with the electron transport capabilities of TiO2, achieving superior efficiency compared to single-material thin films.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If conventional DSSC structures are used, then the device can operate, but the lifespan is short

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice lifespanVSAvoidstructure simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the photovoltaic absorber layer and energy storage electrolyte into a single integrated slurry composition. The electrolyte serves dual functions as both the charge transport medium and the energy storage medium, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying the overall device structure while improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrolyte in the slurry-based absorber layer performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the charge transport medium for photovoltaic operation and as the energy storage medium for capturing and retaining generated electricity. This multi-functionality enhances device lifespan by reducing the number of failure points associated with separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of energy

If energy is converted from solar panel to energy storage system, then energy can be stored, but conversion loss occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconversion lossVSAvoidpower system reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention combines the photovoltaic energy conversion function and energy storage function into a single integrated device. The electrolyte within the absorber layer directly stores the energy generated by light absorption, eliminating the need for external energy conversion and transfer processes that cause losses in conventional separate-panel-and-battery systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach increases the efficiency of DSSCs by 50% to 150% and extends their lifespan, reducing energy conversion losses and enhancing the reliability of solar power systems by directly storing generated energy.

Implementation Method 1

a solar cell, or photovoltaic cell, which is an electronic device that converts the energy of light directly into electricity by the photovoltaic effect, which involves the absorption of solar photons

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

DSSC is based upon the absorption and excited state properties of dye molecules that are bound to a titanium dioxide (TiO2) substrate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAbsorption of solar photons: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS20230238187A1Dye-sensitized solar cell that generates and stores energy

Publication Date: 2023.07.27 HUANG CLAIRE MARIE

AI summary

A method of fabricating a photovoltaic absorber layer is provided. The method embodies the application of an anodic paste along the surface of the transparent conductive substrate, wherein the applied surface is coupled to a cathodic element forming a solar cell. The anodic paste comprises titanium dioxide nanoparticles in powder form mixed with light-absorbing dye and electrolytic paste.