Molecular engineering and electrolyte optimization strategies for enhanced performance of Ru(ii) polypyridyl-sensitized DSSCs

Abstract

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are a leading third-generation solar cell technology due to their low cost, ease of fabrication, and tunable photoelectrochemical properties. Among DSSC components, the photosensitizer plays a crucial role in light absorption and charge generation, with Ru(II)-polypyridyl complexes standing out due to their superior photostability, broad absorption spectra, and efficient charge injection. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of molecular engineering strategies for Ru(II)-polypyridyl photosensitizers, emphasizing ligand modifications to design and develop novel Ru(II) photosensitizers with prolonged excited-state lifetimes, reduced charge recombination, enhanced light-harvesting capabilities, and improved overall solar-to-power conversion efficiency (PCE). In addition, cyclometallated polypyridyl Ru(II) complexes are explored as promising alternatives to Ru(II) complexes incorporating labile thiocyanate (SCN) ligands for DSSCs, which offer improved stability. The relationship between the molecular structure of Ru(II) photosensitizers and their photovoltaic characteristics is analyzed by examining key factors that influence their photovoltaic performance, including light-harvesting efficiency, fine-tuning ground and excited state oxidation potentials (GSOP/ESOP), extending excited state lifetimes, and minimizing charge recombination. Additionally, the impact of co-adsorbents, electrolyte additives, and interfacial engineering on DSSC performance is explored. Emphasis is placed on optimizing redox electrolytes beyond conventional iodide/triiodide (I⁻/I⁻₃) systems to minimize energy loss and enhance PCE. By carefully considering those challenges, this review lays the groundwork for the rational design of next-generation DSSCs that are more efficient, stable, and commercially viable.