High Efficiency Space Qualified Dye Sensitized Solar Cells

In this program, EIC proposes to develop ultralight space qualified "dye sensitized" solar cells (DSSCs) that will have even higher specific power as well as potentially being much less expensive to manufacture than the inorganic thin film alternatives. The cells will have a novel design and will contain new materials enabling: 1) solid state, nonvolatile construction, 2) radiation stable components, 3) thin and flexible materials providing up to 2000W/kg for 10% efficient modules. Phase I will provide demonstration of the concept with a goal of >7% AM0 efficiency using a high conductivity polymer electrolyte developed at EIC. We will compare the performance of this type of cell with a solid state "hole transport material" (HTM) DSSC employing a new HTM and sensitizer developed in collaboration with the University of Florida. We will employ substrate materials that are known to endure the space environment as part of the plan to space qualify the structures. Phase II will entail further modification of active materials to provide extended stability in the space radiation environment, as well design of deployable array architectures.