I−/I3− redox reaction behavior on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells

I−/I3− redox reaction behaviors on chemically polymerized p-toluenesulfonate doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT-TsO) and sputtered-Pt electrode were characterized to compare its performance as the counter electrode in dye sensitized solar cells (DSCs). Adsorption of iodide species at the PEDOT surface, as well as Pt surface was little affected the redox reaction at the low concentration of redox couple. The PEDOT-TsO film had porous structure and charge transfer resistance of the PEDOT-TsO electrode decreased with the thickness. Photovoltaic performance of DSCs with PEDOT-TsO counter electrode (CE) also improved with the thickness of PEDOT-TsO when ionic liquid was used for the electrolyte. The use of porous PEDOT-TsO counter electrode that has low cost, simplified fabrication process and sufficient catalytic activity could enhance the potential of the DSCs for practical use.