Multi‐Branched Multi‐Anchoring Metal‐Free Dyes for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells. Issue 32 (1st August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Manfredi, Norberto; Cecconi, Bianca; Abbotto, Alessandro
• Is Part Of: European journal of organic chemistry. Issue 32(2014)
• Page Start: 7069
• Page End: 7086
• Publication Date: 2014-08-01
• Subjects: Solar cells -- Dyes/Pigments -- Sensitizers -- Energy conversion -- Photochemistry; Chemistry, Organic -- Periodicals; Organic compounds -- Synthesis -- Periodicals; Bioorganic chemistry -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Physical organic -- Periodicals; 547
• DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.201402422
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1434-193X

Abstract

Abstract: Multi‐branched multi‐anchoring metal‐free dyes as photosensitizers for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are reviewed. The article outlines design strategies, main synthetic routes and optical and photovoltaic properties of two families of multi‐branched sensitizers: (a) D–(π–A) n (D = donor, π = π‐spacer, A = acceptor/anchoring functionality) structures containing arylamine, carbazole, phenothiazine or phenoxazine derivatives as D groups, and (b) multi‐donor multi‐anchoring architectures from interconnected mono‐branched D–π–A arms, together with X‐ and Y‐shaped dyes. Although this class has been reported only in the last five years, a variety of molecular architectures, donors, and π‐spacers have been used and combined in multi‐branched molecules. The multi‐branched geometry induces distinctive features including enhanced qualitative and quantitative optical properties, increased currents and quantum efficiencies, and control of molecular aggregation. Abstract : Multi‐branched multi‐anchoring organic dyes represent a recent new class of metal‐free photosensitizers for dye‐sensitized solar cells of increasing interest. The article describes design strategies, synthetic routes and optical and photovoltaic properties. The multi‐branched geometry is able to induce unique features that in turn give rise to relevant photovoltaic properties.