basic understanding of the functioning and practical applications
of DSSCs can be limited due to the lack of useful
data pertaining to DSSCs tested under various light intensities
and operating temperature conditions.
In this study, we systematically investigated the effects of
both light intensity and operating temperature on the photovoltaic
performance of DSSCs. Detailed analyses were
carried out to examine the variations in electron transport
in the liquid electrolyte, and the proof-of-concept is also
provided to explain the changes in the power conversion
efficiency (PCE) of DSSCs. In particular, we varied the
light intensity by using light filters to achieve intensities
lower than 1 Sun-condition (e.g. 25 and 50 mW cm2)
and convex-lens-assisted solar concentrators for intensities
greater than the 1-Sun condition (e.g. 267 and
570 mW cm2). The operating temperature of the DSSCs
was also controlled in the range from 4 to 60 C using
a Peltier cell.