In situ micro- and macro-Raman investigation of the redox couple behavior in DSSCS

Raman spectroscopic investigation on TiO2-N719 dye interfaces using Ag@TiO2 nanoparticles and potential correlation strategies

Herein, we employ Ag@TiO2 core-shell nanoparticles for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) investigations of TiO2-N719 dye interfaces. In situ electrochemical SERS investigations of the Ag@TiO2-N719 interaction are systematically carried out under a series of electrode-potential controls. By comparing the potential dependence of resonant and pre-resonant SERS spectra recorded with different laser excitations, bidentate carboxylate linkage is considered to be involved in N719 adsorption on TiO2. Meanwhile, SCN ligand shows obvious interactions with TiO2, and their role in the adsorption and orientation of N719 on TiO2 should not be underestimated. The in situ SERS spectra of Ag@TiO2 show a clear bell-shaped intensity-potential relation for the major bands of N719. A molecule-to-TiO2 charge-transfer resonance is tentatively attributed to account for such a phenomenon. Under the influence of such a charge-transfer resonance, valuable information about the N719-TiO2 interaction as well as the intramolecular deformation of N719 is obtained.

Liquid electrolytes for dye-sensitized solar cells

The present review offers a survey of liquid electrolytes used in dye-sensitized solar cells from the beginning of photoelectrochemical cell research. It handles both the solvents employed, and the prerequisites identified for an ideal liquid solvent, as well as the various effects of electrolyte solutes in terms of redox systems and additives. The conclusions of the present review call for more detailed molecular insight into the electrolyte-electrode interface reactions and structures.