Electrolyte design and optimization on for dye sensitized solar cells: Response surface analysis and simulation

In this study, the affects of electrolyte composition on photovoltaic parameters in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are analyzed using response surface methodology. We have obtained the relationship of the electrolyte conductivity, tri-iodide diffusivity, and DSSC efficiency based on LiI, I₂, and PMII concentrations in the electrolyte. With the optimal concentration of PMII at 1.4 M, LiI 0 M, and I₂ at 0.1 M, we could reach the highest electrolyte conductivity of 28.86 mS/cm (only 0.45% in error between predicted and experimental data). When PMII at 1.4 M, LiI 0 M and I₂ at 0.02 M, the predicted optimal cell efficiency was 8.41%, which was validated with an experimental value of 7.9% (with an error of 6.5%).