Monolithic all-solid-state dye-sensitized solar module based on mesoscopic carbon counter electrodes

A monolithic all-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) module based on mesoscopic carbon counter electrodes with high stability has been developed, which offers a promising prospect for commercial applications. Based on the design of a triple layer structure, all the layers are constructed on a single conducting glass substrate by screen-printing. A typical monolithic all-solid-state DSSC module, which consists of five series-interconnected unit cells, shows an overall energy conversion efficiency of 2.57% and a maximum output of 156.9 mW. In the case of applying a solid-state polymer electrolyte, we have developed a novel sealing method for all-solid-state DSSCs. Endurance tests were carried out to investigate the stability of the module under a hot and high humidity environment (60 °C, 85% RH) and heat and cool cycle stress (−10 and 60 °C), which indicated that the sealing method improved the stability of the module effectively.

► We developed a monolithic all-solid-state dye-sensitized solar module with a polymer electrolyte and carbon counter electrodes.
► We developed a novel sealing method for solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells.
► Endurance tests were carried out to investigate the stability of the module under a hot and high humidity environment and heat and cool cycle stress.