Nanochemistry aspects of titania in dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract

We analyze the main nanochemistry factors affecting photovoltaic performance in TiO₂ employed as wide bandgap semiconductor in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). What is the best morphology of the oxide? Which processes yield the required structures? Finally, putting the discussion in the context of the rapid evolution of photovoltaic technologies, we argue that new titania nanostructures will form the basic component of second-generation solar modules based on dye solar cells.