A comparative study of charge transport in quasi-solid state dye-sensitized solar cells using polymer or nanocomposite gel electrolytes

► The effect of additive gelators in electrolytes on the photovoltaic characteristics was studied. ► We measured cyclic voltammetry to determine the charge diffusion behavior in the electrolytes. ► The key circuit elements related to electron transport and interfacial recombination was discussed. ► An enhanced solar-to-electric energy conversion efficiency of 7.65% was achieved. ► Thermal stability of dye-sensitized solar cell with gel electrolytes was improved.