The stability improvements of dye-sensitized solar cell with natural template for photoanode using lignin extracted from rice husk

In response to escalating global concerns over environmental pollution, the development of green dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) has emerged as a promising technology for solar energy conversion. This study harnesses the potential of rice husk, an abundant agricultural waste in Indonesia, by extr...

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Main Authors: Gita Rabelsa, Shobih, Jojo Hidayat, Phutri Milana, Widhya Budiawan, Erdin Almuqqodas, Natalita M. Nursam, Ahmad Ibrahim, Lia M. Pranoto, Yuliar Firdaus, Brian Yuliarto
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier 2025-01-01
Series:Heliyon
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Online Access:http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024159440
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Summary:In response to escalating global concerns over environmental pollution, the development of green dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) has emerged as a promising technology for solar energy conversion. This study harnesses the potential of rice husk, an abundant agricultural waste in Indonesia, by extracting lignin through a simple recycling method. Lignin acts as a natural, non-toxic dopant and template for TiO₂ composites, enhancing the stability of the photoanode in DSSCs. A TiO₂ photoanode modified with 5 % lignin achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.81 %. After a 90-day stability test, the TiO2/lignin 5 % composite retained 78 % of its initial PCE, significantly outperforming pristine TiO₂ in terms of short-circuit current density (JSC) and open-circuit voltage (VOC). This improved stability is attributed to increased porosity, better lignin dispersion within the TiO₂ matrix, prevention of agglomeration, enhanced surface area for dye adsorption, and reduced electrolyte leakage. Furthermore, lignin's high thermal stability on the TiO₂ surface provides additional protection against dye degradation and electrolyte evaporation during repeated light exposure.
ISSN:2405-8440