Enhancement of the Photovoltaic Potential in Mimosa pudica-Based Dye for Sensitization of the Working Electrode in the Construction of Solar Cell

Abstract

The potential enhancement of extract from Mimosa pudica (M. pudica) leaf for sensitizing TiO2 layer toward the production of the organic solar cell is investigated. A unique diffusion model that incorporates the concentration of the extract in the TiO2 layer is adopted. The diffusion characterization of the extract into the TiO2 provides a proper understanding of the dynamics of the extract within the layer. This research applies the combination of experimental and numerical techniques toward the investigation of the diffusion characteristics in M. pudica extract. Experimental chromatograph of the extract is conducted in order to reveal the properties and concentration of the extract. Three different thicknesses of TiO2 deposit are sensitized at different hours in order to monitor the absorbance. Using the finite volume method (FVM), the adsorption and diffusion characteristics of the extract into the layer of TiO2 are modeled. The current–voltage characteristics of the cell are combined in series as a standard module and applied to an audited office space. The cell area characterized is 0.3848 cm2, and the conversion efficiency of 1.35% is obtained. The concentration model of the extract in TiO2 and the entrance velocity is presented. The experimental and numerical results compared favorably. However, it is anticipated that additional taxonomical characterization of M. pudica and advanced investigation into organic matrix composite will provide a useful guide for the synthesis of the natural dye and enhance the conversion efficiency of the solar module for renewable power generation.