Characterization of Nano-sized ZnO Electrodes with Curcumin- derived Natural Dye Extract for DSSC Application

Zinc oxide (ZnO) powder was first prepared by hydrothermal synthesis at low temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD) investigation was carried out to examine the structural properties of ZnO powder. ZnO colloidal solution was deposited onto ITO/glass by rolling. After air drying, annealing in O2, atmospheric ambient was performed at 300 C and 400 C for 1 h. As the surface treatment, sintered ZnO film was immersed in 0.1 M HCl, washed with DIW and dried at room temperature. The Curcumin, a yellow-orange dye found in turmeric root, was used as a photosensitizer and was carefully prepared to avoid colour fading. Next, the ZnO film was dipped in dye solution for 15 h. High performance carbon counter electrode was prepared and used as a counter electrode. Two glass slides were offset and two binder clips were used to hold the electrodes together. Photovoltaic response of ZnO cell was measured and it was expected to utilize the DSSC application. The conversion efficiency of DSSC at 400oC (0.129%) was found to be larger than that of the cell at 300oC (0.117%).