On the Role of the Spacer Layer in Monolithic Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Monolithic dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) have been investigated with the focus of determining the role of the spacer layer. Investigating the role of the spacer layer, which lies between the titania working electrode and the graphite counter electrode in a monolithic DSC, is of interest as the monolithic architecture is being investigated for large-scale DSC manufacture. Three scenarios were tested: no spacer layer, thus direct contact between the titania and graphite, a large particle anatase titania scattering/spacer layer, and an insulating zirconia layer. It was seen that, although an insulating spacer layer is not essential for devices to function, it does, however, enhance overall performance.