Bi-functional TiO2 cemented Ag grid under layer for enhancing the photovoltaic performance of a large-area dye-sensitized solar cell

A bi-functional TiO2 cemented Ag grid under layer for enhanced the photovoltaic performance of a large-area dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) is prepared with a simple way. The conductive printing paste contains micro-sized Ag powders and nano-sized TiO2 cementing agent. The conductive printing paste can be well cemented on the FTO glass and form high conductive grids with Ag powders sintered together by the nano-sized TiO2 particles. The formed conductive grid is protected with a TiO2 thin layer and TiO2 sol treatment to avoid the iodine corrosion. The addition of the TiO2 cemented conductive grid can decrease the internal resistance of the large-area dye-sensitized solar cell when it is prepared in the photo and counter electrodes. Furthermore, the protecting TiO2 thin layer and the TiO2 sol treatment can be done on the whole area of the large-area photo electrode to both play as the blocking under layer at the same time, which can also enhance the photovoltaic performance of the large-area dye-sensitized solar cell.

Enhanced photovoltaic performance of large-area DSSC with conductive grids in the photo and counter electrodes.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► TiO2 protected Ag grids is made for using as electrode in large-area DSSC.
► The electrode has high conductivity and low internal resistance.
► TiO2 protected Ag grids electrode avoids iodine corrosion in electrolyte.
► The TiO2 layer also play a blocking layer role.
► Above factors enhance the photovoltaic performance of large-area DSSC.