Recent developments in molecule-based organic materials for dye-sensitized solar cells

Abstract

Photoanodes such as TiO₂, sensitizers, electrolytes, and photocathodes play important roles in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Organic materials are often used for these components. This feature article reviews the recent development of organic sensitizers for both n- and p-type DSSCs, with an emphasis on molecular design strategies. This paper also discusses dyes for co-sensitized and tandem DSSCs, and metal-containing and metal-free redox organic mediators. Finally this paper briefly discusses organic materials for counter electrodes. The article provides readers with an overview of new trends in organic materials for DSSCs.