I need help with the construction design, components, and how to operate it. How can I practically measure photocurrent and consequently calculate the photoconversion efficiency of the cell?
Dear Sir,
You can prepare TiO2 nanotube arrays by anodization of Ti foil. Which is expensive process.
You can also make same thing directly on FTO substrate by Hydrothermal method. Before growing on FTO substrate its better to apply seed layer on FTO substrate by the help of TiCl4 solution with different concentrations.
Once you got the confirmation about morphology of TiO2 arrays with SEM or TEM, then fabrication of DSSC with this photoanode we can make easily by following standard method. Photocurrent and voltage measurements can be done by solar simulator with keithely 2400 source meter.
You can do literature survey on growing of nanotube arrays, then you will come to know the conditions for the preparation method.
Dear P S Chandrasekhar,
Thank you for answer. I have a good experience in fabrication of TiO2 nanotube arrays by anodization. my question was about how to assemble the components of the DSSCs and how to connect the positive and negative terminals of Keithely power supply to the components of the DSSCs
if you have any resources explaining theses processes, this would be highly appreciated
Dear Ahmed,
constructing DSSC's with TiO2 nanotube arrays is similar to the how to prepare with normal photoanode. But you have to ensure the foil should be flat enough to make the sandwitch structure (else leakage of electrolyte is a possibility). Since you are using annealed anodized foils you may have to give proper contact. we do generally by scratching the metal oxide part at the end and give the contact. some times the spacer (polymer film) is quite difficult to adhere with the metallic part. you may use some clips to sandwitch the two electrodes. Also for injecting the electrolyte it will be good if you can drill the counter electrode.
Another option is to transfer the TiO2 nanotube layer from the metal surface by proper etching and then paste it onto the conducting glass and do the device fabrication. Few reports are available in the literature which discuss these issues. wish you the best
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