You can create a basic solar cell at home using readily available materials, following these steps based on a simple dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) model:
Creating a DIY Solar Cell
This process outlines how to create a functional, albeit basic, solar cell at home. Keep in mind this is an experimental setup and not intended to produce significant power.
Materials Needed:
- Donut powder (source of titanium dioxide)
- Ethanol
- Conductive glass panes
- Graphite (pencil lead)
- Electrolyte solution (e.g., iodine and potassium iodide in a suitable solvent)
- Applicator (e.g., small brush or cotton swab)
- Clips or fasteners
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Extract Titanium Dioxide: Obtain titanium dioxide by extracting it from the donut powder. This material acts as a semiconductor in the solar cell.
- Prepare the Solution: Mix the extracted titanium dioxide with ethanol. This creates a solution that can be applied to the conductive glass.
- Coat the Conductive Glass: Apply the titanium dioxide solution to one of the conductive glass panes. Ensure the solution coats evenly.
- Drying: Allow the coated glass to dry completely. This is important for a functional layer.
- Curing: Cure the coating as necessary for durability. This could involve gentle heating, depending on the materials.
- Coat the Second Pane: Coat the second conductive glass pane with graphite. You can achieve this by rubbing pencil lead directly onto the glass or by creating a graphite solution in a solvent.
- Assemble the Cell: Place a drop or a thin layer of the electrolyte solution between the two coated glass panes.
- Sandwich: Sandwich the electrolyte between the two panes ensuring the coated surfaces face each other.
- Secure: Secure the glass panes together with clips or fasteners. The electrolyte should be well contained and in contact with both coatings.
How It Works:
This home-made solar cell operates on a similar principle to dye-sensitized solar cells.
- Light Absorption: When light hits the titanium dioxide layer, it excites electrons.
- Electron Transfer: These excited electrons then move to the conductive glass, creating a current.
- Circuit Completion: The graphite layer helps complete the electrical circuit by facilitating electron movement back to the electrolyte.
- Electrolyte Role: The electrolyte regenerates the titanium dioxide by supplying electrons.
Limitations:
- Efficiency: This DIY solar cell is not highly efficient and will produce only a small amount of electricity.
- Durability: The cell may not be very durable, and the electrolyte may leak over time.