Effect of Extractant pH and Concentration of Ageratum Conyziodes L on the Optical Properties of Photosensitizer and Performance of Dye-Sensitizer Solar Cell

Abstract

A dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) is a type of third-generation solar cell that uses dye as a light-sensitizing layer and is still under development. DSSC offers several advantages over previous generations, such as low production costs, simple manufacturing processes, and environmental friendliness, non-toxic and lightweight. However, in its development, natural dyes are derived from natural materials. This study focused on the optical properties and performance of DSSC as affected by variations in solvent pH and concentration of Ageratum conyzoides L. In this study, the pH of the solvent was varied at pH 1.00, 1.66, 2.27, and 3.00. Dye with solvent pH that has the best efficiency was then varied in concentration to 1.25gr/50ml, 2.5gr/50ml, 3.75gr/50ml, and 5gr/50ml. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) characterization was used to identify the pigments contained in the dye. Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and J-V characteristic measurements were performed to analyze the optical properties and performance of the DSSC. The results showed that the dye sample in pH 1.00 solvent with 2,5gr/50ml concentration had the best performance with an average. ,  0.525 V,  58.4%, and an average efficiency  0.000598%. Although the DSSC in this study is less efficient than the typical efficiencies of 3-12% reported for natural dye-based DSSCs, this work highlights critical parameters such as solvent pH and dye concentration that influence performance. The results provide insights into addressing the inherent limitations of natural dyes in renewable energy applications, contributing to the ongoing advancements in environmentally friendly and sustainable solar energy technologies through the optimized use of natural dyes in DSSCs.