Recent research progress on quasi-solid-state electrolytes for dye-sensitized solar cells

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are the most promising, low cost and most extensively investigated solar cells. They are famous for their clean and efficient solar energy conversion. Nevertheless this, long-time stability is still to be acquired. In recent years research on solid and quasi-solid state electrolytes is extensively increased. Various quasi-solid electrolytes, including composites polymer electrolytes, ionic liquid electrolytes, thermoplastic polymer electrolytes and thermosetting polymer electrolytes have been used. Performance and stability of a quasi-solid state electrolyte are between liquid and solid electrolytes. High photovoltaic performances of QS-DSSCs along better long-term stability can be obtained by designing and optimizing quasi-solid electrolytes. It is a prospective candidate for highly efficient and stable DSSCs.

Graphical abstract Quasi-solid state dye-sensitized solar cells show optimal stability and efficiency. Their stability is higher than those of liquid electrolyte based dye-sensitized solar cells and their efficiency is higher than those of solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide