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Effect Of Ionic Liquid Electrolytes In Dsscs With Titanium Dioxide (Tio2) Inverse Opal Structures, Naomi S. Ramesar

Dissertations and Theses

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) are low-cost alternatives to conventional solar cells that can work well in low-light conditions. Despite considerable study on improving the efficiency of DSSCs, the current liquid electrolyte cell has plateaued at a conversion efficiency of ~ 12%. A major problem with these cells regarding their applicability is the low viscosity and high volatility of the toxic electrolyte, i.e., acetonitrile, which cause leakage and volatilization. We propose that using ionic liquids (ILs), which are more viscous, less volatile, and conductive, may be more suitable electrolytes. However, one unwanted side effect of the higher viscosity of the ILs …