Three-dimensional network electrolytes with highly efficient ion-transporting channels for quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells

Quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) are fabricated with three-dimensional network poly(adipic acid pentaerythritol ester) (PAAPE). The PAAPEs are prepared by esterification of pentaerythritol and adipic acid. This three-dimensional structure provides highly efficient ion-transporting channels for iodide/triiodide (I−/I3−) transport in the gel electrolyte. The optimized gel electrolyte shows conductivity of 4.03 mS cm−1 at 25 °C. The fabricated DSC obtains a photoenergy conversion efficiency of 6.81% under AM 1.5 irradiation.115