Characterization of Poly(vinylidene Fluoride) Nanofiber-Based Electrolyte and Its Application to Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell with Natural Dyes

Abstract

The potential of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) as an alternative to depleting fossil fuels has been investigated. To optimize performance and efficiency, the effectiveness of PVDF and PVDF nanofiber (NF) membrane-based electrolytes in suppressing solvent leakage and evaporation in liquid electrolyte systems was evaluated. SEM results for PVDF NF membranes showed the formation of a network with a three-dimensional structure with a diameter of 100–300 nm and an average thickness of 0.14 mm. The Infrared (IR) spectrum shows the electrolyte and polymer-PVDF interactions. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) curve shows the melting transition of PVDF NF 7.66% lower than PVDF. Efficiency and resistance of DSSC based on natural dyes as measured by multimeter and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) at a solar intensity of 100 mW/cm2 showed the highest efficiency of anthocyanin-based DSSC from telang (Clitoria ternatea L.) flower extract. Its use as a photosensitizer in an electrolyte system based on PVDF NF membranes resulted in an efficiency that was not significantly different from that of liquid electrolytes (1.69%).

Characterization and Application of Natural Photosensitizer and Poly(vinylidene Fluoride) Nanofiber Membranes-Based Electrolytes in DSSC

“…The production of organic photosensitizers through maceration in this study closely aligns with the methodology outlined in the research conducted by Kusumawati et al [16], which employed a consistent maceration process with a 1:6 ratio of sample to solvent. Specifically, C. papaya L. leaves were macerated in methanol, while P. amaryllifolius leaves underwent maceration using ethanol.…”

“…The sample solution used is Mix 20 mL of natural photosensitizer with 5 mL KCl 0.3%. DSSC efficiency is evaluated based on current and voltage measurement using Krisbow KW08-267 Multimeter with a resistance of 200 kΩ and a voltage of 200 mV, while to obtain the effect of ionic conductivity on J sc , electron transport analysis was carried out, in particular the DSSC electrochemical interface resistance, uses Gamry reference 3000 electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) [16].…”

“…The manufacture of PVDF membranes was carried out by casting knife and electrospinning methods as previously conducted [16].…”

“…The cathode FTO glass is coated with carbon from the 2B pencil. The DSSC circuit is composed of FTO/TiO 2 /PVDF/Pt/FTO membranes [16].…”

“…Flat-sheet PVDF is made using the phase inversion method. The phase inversion method works on the principle of diffusion through an immersion solution in a non-solvent coagulation bath [16][17][18]. The diffusion process occurs between solvent and non-solvent, where the solvent component will evaporate from the impression solution and the non-solvent will penetrate the layer to produce a solidified membrane [19][20][21].…”