Synthesis, Characterization,and Application of Gold Nanoparticles in Green Nanochemistry Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

摘要

Gold (Au) nanoparticles (NPs) have a wide range of scientific applications due to their innate ability to efficiently bind with organic and bio molecules in conjunction with possessing excellent optical properties. In this experiment, Au NPs were synthesized and experimentally characterized via atomic force microscopy, high-resolution tunneling electron microscopy, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. After characterization, the NPs were found to vary in shape but had a uniform size of 25 nm, with an absorption maxima at 521 nm. Using their bio-binding properties and light absorption characteristics, the NPs were integrated with anthocyanin-based, dye-sensitized solar cells. The hybrid system was found to enhance the photovoltaic output of the system, likely due to the enhanced photon-capturing capacity provided by the Au NPs.