Indoor Photovotaics with Dye-sensitized solar cells
The INDYE project targets the recycling of ambient light in domestic environments using photovoltaics (PV) and enabling the implementation of digital technologies for the next generations such as Internet of Things (IoT). Our focus is advancing self-reliant and eco-friendly concepts to energize small indoor electrical devices, eliminating the reliance on batteries.
The main objective of INDYE is to take advantage of the versatility and good performance of the dye-sensitized solar cell concept under diffuse light to develop PV devices with improved optical match with the most common artificial light sources and maximum voltage at low illumination. We also aim at improving the environmental friendliness of indoor PV by using nontoxic and recyclable materials.
INDYE Goals
Increase the efficiency of DSCs for IPV applications
Increase the efficiency and the power output of DSCs for IPV applications by the identification of limiting factors of indoor dye-sensitized solar cells to push current efficiencies close to theoretical limits.
Create eco-friendly and cost-effective devices
We aim to develop specialized organic dyes and new redox electrolyte solutions including water-based and ionic liquids systems. In addition, we propose to develop low-temperature processing methods to fabricate flexible DSCs to improve the implementation.
Upscaling and life cycle analysis
Fabrication of serial and parallel mini-modules and application in demonstrator system. This sub-theme also involves conducting and cost-benefits and lifetime cycle assessment of the proposed designs.
INDYE Specific Objetives
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Identify performance-limiting factors at low illumination and under artificial light sources, including light harvesting losses (spectrum match and angle dependence) and electronic losses (charge transport and recombination kinetics at low light).
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Development and synthesis of organic dyes with absorption bands specifically tuned to the spectrum of relevant artificial light sources (focusing on LED) – combination of dyes adapted to better match the spectrum of these light sources.
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Develop and synthesize optimized, stable (non-volatile, solid-state), and environmentally friendly redox mediators and hole conductors for low-light operation.
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Optimize devices for indoor operation, assisted by optical and electronic device modeling and machine learning techniques.
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Material cost estimation and life cycle assessment of the proposed designs and formulations.
The INDYE project is committed to environmental sustainability by developing eco-friendly, recyclable materials for indoor photovoltaic applications. By minimizing the reliance on disposable batteries and reducing electronic waste, INDYE promotes a cleaner, greener future, aligning with the ‘Do No Significant Harm’ principle to ensure low-impact solutions at every project stage.
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