Enhanced Photoelectric Characterization of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Based on Phycoerythrin 545 by Synergistic Sensitization

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on phycoerythrin have a simple preparation process and widely available raw materials, and are pollution-free, in addition to having good prospects for underwater applications. In this study, DSSCs based on cryptomonad phycoerythrin 545 (PE545) were fabricated independently or through synergistic sensitization with chlorophyll a (Chla) and chlorin e6. Their photoelectric properties were characterized using the solar cell I–V test system. After sensitization with PE545, PE545 plus chlorophyll a, and PE545 plus chlorin e6, the maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency values were 0.263%, 0.437%, and 0.635%, the maximum short-circuit currents were 0.195 mA/cm, 0.271 mA/cm, and 0.391 mA/cm 2 , the maximum open-circuit voltages were 0.482 V, 0.538 V, and 0.596 V, and the maximum fill factors were 0.700, 0.750, and 0.681, respectively. Accordingly, PE545 plus chlorin e6 gave the most effective DSSC. The high photoelectric conversion efficiency of this photosynthetic pigment synergistically sensitized light anode shows significant potential for the fabrication of new electronic and optoelectronic devices.