Dye-sensitized solar cells using deep eutectic solvents mixed with ethanol as an effective electrolyte medium

Abstract

This research aims to develop a new type of electrolyte for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) which can be produced in cost-effective and large scale. DSCs using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) mixed with ethanol (50% w/w DES content), as an electrolyte medium, was studied herein for the first time. Ten types of DESs were synthesized and three among them were potential candidates for DSC electrolytes. Compared to toxic and volatile organic solvents, this mixed solvent is more eco-friendly and inexpensive. According to J-V curve measurements, DSCs that used DES-ethanol medium showed promising photovoltaic performance.