Molecular Engineering of Photosensitizers for Solid-State Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells: Recent Developments and Perspectives.

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are a feasible alternative to traditional silicon-based solar cells because of their low cost, eco-friendliness, flexibility, and acceptable device efficiency. In recent years, solid-state DSSCs (ss-DSSCs) have garnered much interest as they can overcome the leakage and evaporation issues of liquid electrolyte systems. However, the poor morphology of solid electrolytes and their interface with photoanodes can minimize the device performance. The photosensitizer/dye is a critical component of ss-DSSCs and plays a vital role in the device's overall performance. In this review, we summarize recent developments and performance of photosensitizers, including mono- and co-sensitization of ruthenium, porphyrin, and metal-free organic dyes under 1 sun and ambient/artificial light conditions. We also discuss the various requirements that efficient photosensitizers should satisfy and provide an overview of their historical development over the years.

Selective CO2 adsorption and proton conductivity in the two-dimensional Zn(II) framework with protruded water molecules and flexible ether linkers.

A two-dimensional (2D) Zn(II) metal-organic framework with flexible aryl ether linkers and water molecules exposed to the pores was prepared. The supramolecular three-dimensional (3D) network is generated by the presence of extensive π-π contacts, which could be responsible for gas uptake. The water molecules and oxygen atoms from the flexible linkers create a polar environment within the integrated framework, leading to simultaneous selective CO2 adsorption and proton conductivity in the two-dimensional Zn(II) framework.