Enhancing the Power Conversion Efficiency of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells through Natural Dye Optimization

An Electrical Engineering Perspective

Authors

  • Ogbonnaya Udonsi Uduma
    Physics Advanced Research Centre, Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Abuja, Nigeria
  • Muhammad Uthman
    Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Abuja, Nigeria
  • Aliyu O. Sani
    Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Abuja, Nigeria

Keywords:

Dye Solar Cells , Power conversion efficiency , electrical engineering , natural dye , optimization

Abstract

This study evaluates the electrical performance of dye‑sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) fabricated with six natural dyes and a commercial ruthenium reference (N719). Using engineered datasets that mirror typical laboratory outcomes, we analyze charge transport, interfacial resistance, and photovoltaic metrics (Jsc, Voc, FF, PCE). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) parameters and ultraviolet-visible absorption characteristics are presented alongside IV and Nyquist analyses. Statistical testing (one‑way ANOVA and pairwise comparisons) demonstrates that while N719 retains superior mean PCE (~8.3%), certain natural dyes such as Blackberry and Red Cabbage achieve competitive PCEs (≈3–3.6%) with lower charge‑transfer resistances than other naturals. Regression and correlation analyses show PCE is driven predominantly by Jsc and FF, with Rct exerting a strong negative influence. We propose engineering interventions including nanostructured TiO₂, co‑sensitization and optimized redox electrolytes to close the gap between natural dyes and commercial standards. This work frames natural dyes within an electrical‑engineering optimization path for low‑cost, sustainable DSSCs.

Dimensions

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cover

Published

2025-11-05

How to Cite

Enhancing the Power Conversion Efficiency of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells through Natural Dye Optimization: An Electrical Engineering Perspective. (2025). Lafia Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, 4(1), 8-14. https://doi.org/10.62050/ljsir2026.v4n1.668

Issue

Volume 4, Issue 1 (April, 2026), Lafia Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research (LJSIR)

Section

Physical Sciences
Copyright & Licensing

Copyright (c) 2026 Ogbonnaya Udonsi Uduma, Muhammad Uthman, Aliyu O. Sani (Author)

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Enhancing the Power Conversion Efficiency of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells through Natural Dye Optimization: An Electrical Engineering Perspective. (2025). Lafia Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, 4(1), 8-14. https://doi.org/10.62050/ljsir2026.v4n1.668

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