Dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical solar cells based on nanocomposite organic–inorganic materials

Dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical solar cells have been constructed by using nanocomposite organic–inorganic sol–gel electrolytes and a titania nanocrystalline film also based on a sol–gel nanocomposite material. Among other advantages connected with nanocomposite electrolytes is the balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains that allows reducing polarity-connected repulsive forces developing between the titania-dye system and the electrolyte. The overall efficiencies of these cells range between 5 and 6% under 100 mW/cm2 illumination (equivalent to 1 sun at AM1.5).