A new anode material of N/TiO2 nanobelts in DSSC

The N/TiO2 nanobelts anodes were prepared by sol and powder combination technology. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the structure of nanobelts and the modification of non-metallic element N. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) measurements showed that the Rct2 corresponding to the TiO2/dye/electrolyte interface decreased 13.66 Ω. TiO2 in the form of belt was conducive to transmission of carriers produced by photoexcited dye. The modification of elements N led to a strong redshift to the visible region in the ultraviolet-visible spectra (UV–vis). Much more components of sunlight can be used. Therefore, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) was improved.

► The N/TiO2 nanobelts anodes are prepared by sol and powder combination technology.
► XPS confirmed the structure of nanobelts and the modification of elements N.
► TiO2 in the form of belt can be conducive to transmission of carriers.
► The modification of elements N results in a strong redshift to the visible region.