Modelling interfacial charge transfer in dye-sensitised solar cells

Abstract

A mathematical model of interfacial charge transfer within dye-sensitised solar cells (DSC) is presented for the semiconductor–dye–electrolyte interface. A general framework for the model equations of interfacial current is developed. The model accounts for the transfer of charge produced by reactions involving dye molecules, electrolyte species and adsorbed electrons at three semiconductor surface states. The model framework allows for identification of the required kinetic parameters necessary for solving the model equations. The general framework serves as a motivation for discussion on obtaining the required kinetic parameter values experimentally.