Effects of atomic layer deposited thin films on dye sensitized solar cell performance

Abstract

The application of thin titania films by atomic layer deposition on top of a low temperature nanoparticulate TiO2 electrode was found to enhance the performance of dye sensitized solar cells. Dynamic measurements of photoinduced charge extraction showed that the atomic layer deposited top coat increased the electron lifetime at the same electron density. This was attributed to an increased electron trap concentration, which resulted in slower charge transport and increased charge carrier lifetimes. © 2012 American Vacuum Society.