n-InAs based photo-thermo-electrochemical cells for conversion of solar to electrical energy

Abstract

This paper presents the photo-thermo-electrochemical (PEC) response of various combinations of the n-type indium arsenide (n-InAs) photo-electrode with different counter electrodes, i.e., Ag, Al, Cu, Pb, Zn and ITO. The electrical parameters such as open circuit voltages (Voc) and short circuit current (Isc) and power output of the n-InAs/orange dye (OD)/X cells have been investigated under illumination. 5 wt.% aqueous solution of OD has been used as an electrolyte. Voc and Isc measurements of the cells have been found with different emergent patterns depending upon the employed electrodes. Maximum power output has been found to be 710 μW/cm2 in the case of n-InAs/OD/Al cell. The Isc is prominent in n-InAs/OD/Ag in comparison to the rest of the combinations whereas the highest value of Voc has been found in n-InAs/OD/Zn cell.