Experimental Research DSSC

TANZA NATIONAL COMPREHENSIVE HIGH
SCHOOL (SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL)

Daang Amaya, Tanza, Cavite
Characterization of Dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) using Averrhoa

bilimbi (Kamias) Flowers as Sensitizer with Varying Counter-
electrode: Graphite, Candle soot, and Combination of Both
In Partial fulfillment for the requirements

in Capstone Project and Practical Research II
ADRIAN APULOG
DANIEL JAIRUS GALERA
JOHN MICHAEL NUEVO
CHRISTIAN LLY SOSA
SHEAN ROYCE TIMPOC
Proponents
ELIZABETH SORIANO
CATHERINE MORALES
Research Advisers
Tanza National Comprehensive High School-SHS

Tanza, Cavite
March 2021
DEDICATION PAGE
This study is dedicated to the respective parents or guardians of the researchers.

Without their utmost support and understanding, it would not possible for the researchers to
accomplish this study. They were proven to be the best possible source of inspiration for the
researchers and that the support they continue to exert will always be a reminder for them to
pursue greater knowledge and be the best they could ever be.
Aside from the parents, this study is also dedicated for the whole community
especially in the energy department that suffers from different problems involving the lack of
energy sources that became one of the most common problems on far places. It is one of the
reasons why the researchers come up to this kind of study because the researchers want to help
in trying to help solve the problem on energy sources even in their little ways for the safeness and
personal needs of the people.
Lastly, the study is dedicated to the researcher’s advisers, Mrs. Catherine Morales
and Ms. Elizabeth Soriano for guiding and teaching us to be better students and researchers.
Their willingness to give help when needed is what drove the researchers to continue and not
give up. Thus, helping in the completion of the study.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This research study would likely to be unfinished if it were not for these people to help
the researchers throughout the making of this study. The researchers would like to acknowledge
the following:
The heavenly Father who let them make and finish the whole research without any
accidents happen in the researchers and give the success of this whole study.
To Mrs. Catherine Morales and Ms. Elizabeth Soriano for guiding the researchers
starting from the very beginning of Chapter 1 until the very end of their research paper.
To Mr. Aldrin Baradillo for helping the researchers in their statistics for their whole study.
To Mrs. Rosalyn Sapad who guided the researchers on where to gather their materials.
To the research group of Cristina May Cantila, Althea Cordero, and Denise Johann
Mapanao for lending the researchers some materials for the study.
To the owners of kamias trees where the researchers gathered their kamias flowers.
Lastly, we would like to thank our ever-helpful friends, classmates and family who gave
their unending support, guidance and love throughout pandemic days. This research study will
not be possible without them.
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ABSTRACT
Dye-sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) are photovoltaic devices that are

responsible in converting visible light to electrical energy. Previous researches have been
conducted to test different counter-electrodes and plant dyes which could help increase the
performance of the cell. In this paper, comparison of different counter-electrode is tested on a
three (3) - day observation. After the experimentation, the collected data was analyzed through
tables and graphs, and it can be concluded that the counter-electrode that exhibited the most
voltage is the combination of graphite and candle soot having an average voltage of 239mV on
the observation process. However, the exhibited voltage is still insufficient compared to a
commercial solar cell. The implication of this study is to use a bigger laboratory where equipment
is complete because the experimentation is challenging.
Keywords: Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell; Counter-electrode; Photovoltaic devices
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page
Dedication Page 1
Acknowledgements 2
Abstract 3
Table of Contents 4
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study 7
Statement of the Problem 9
Significance of the Study 9
Scope and Limitation 9
Conceptual Framework 10
Definition of Terms 11
CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Conceptual Literature 13
Related Studies 14
CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY
Research Design 18
Research Locale 18
Research Procedures 18
Procurement of Materials 18
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Preparation of Dyes 19
Making of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste 20
Conversion of Microscopic Slides to Conductive Slides 20
Application of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste 21
Application of Plant Dye 21
Preparation of Working Counter-Electrode 22
Assembly of DSSC 22
DSSC Testing 23
Data Collection 23
CHAPTER 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 1 Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on Day 1 24
Table 2: Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on Day 2 25
Table 3: Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on Day 3 25
Figure 1: Day 1 First Cell (A) Results 26
Figure 2: Day 1 Second Cell (B) Results 27
CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary 32
Conclusion 32
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Recommendation 33
References 34
Appendices 36
Appendix A: Taxonomy 36
Appendix B: Photo Documentation 37
Appendix C: GANTT Chart 40
Appendix D: Financial Report 41
Curriculum Vitae 43
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Dye-sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) have been a popular and an eye-catching study in
recent years. Philippines is known to be a high consumer of electricity that is why DSSC is a
great help. Different studies are being studied in relation to DSSC that is why materials are
diverse. The prospect of low-cost investments and fabrication are key features. DSSCs
performances are also relatively better compared with other solar cell technologies under
diffuse light conditions and at higher temperatures. DSSCs offer the possibilities to design
solar cells with a large flexibility in shape, color, and transparency. Integration into different
products opens up new commercial opportunities (Hagfeldt, 2010).
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells are extracted from different sensitizers mainly found in
surroundings but it must be with high anthocyanin and chlorophyll content. Various
components of a plant such as the flower petals, leaves and bark have been tested as
sensitizers. The nature of these pigments together with other parameters has resulted in
varying performance (Narayan, 2012). Averrhoa bilimbi locally known as ‘kamias’ in the
Philippines is a fruit bearing tree of the genus Averrhoa, family Oxalidaceae. It is a close
relative of the carambola tree. The Averrhoa bilimbi (kamias) tree usually begins to flower in
February then blooms and bear fruits more or less continuously until December. The fruits are
usually picked by hand. These need gentle handling because of their thin skin. The sour fruit
usually comes from tiny flowers that are red-violet in color. The major chemical compounds
present in the flower extract of Averrhoa bilimbi were cycloeicosane followed by
benzenedicarboxylic acid and benzenepropanoic acid (Mohan, 2016). Averrhoa bilimbi
(kamias) in traditional medicine is also used as a local remedy for various ailments like
hypertension, diabetes, mellitus and dyslipidemia. This flower is also used as dyes in few
countries where this plant usually grows. (Shukla, 2016).
Natural dyes are dyes or colorants derived from plants, invertebrates, or minerals. The
majority of natural dyes are vegetable dyes from plant sources like roots, berries, bark, leaves,
and wood and other biological sources such as fungi. Natural dye is biodegradable and non-
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toxic having most of the extraction process harmless to environment. Using natural dye such
as kamias flower extract can be good for DSSC. Plant pigments are highly pH sensitive and
can alter solar cell performance based on its extraction method, concentration and its ability
to anchor with photo anode (Bhogaita and Nalini, 2016).
Additionally, DSSC also has a counter-electrode—which will serve as catalyst and

helps in the regeneration of dye by oxidation-reduction of electrolyte. In this study, different
counter-electrode is tested to determine which counter-electrode is the most effective. The
following counter-electrodes that this study used are graphite, candle soot, and combination
of graphite and candle soot. These materials are used because they are said to be a good
conductor.
This research was conducted because the availability of electricity on some parts of
the Philippines is a problem. There are places where there is no source of electricity. When it
comes to urban areas, the high expenses for their electricity bill is another problem. Using this
study may give a little solution for a big problem for the community. The researchers
conducted this study because there is an existing gap needs to be established between
existing researches and in present researches. Other researchers from different field does not
evaluate more about the prevalent of using extracted dye of Averrhoa bilimbi (Kamias) flowers
because most of the controlled variable they are investigating are red cabbage, alugbati,
berries, spinach, and other plants or fruits with high anthocyanin and chlorophyll content.
Moreover, other researches have conducted the use of graphite and candle soot, so this study
will include the combination of both graphite and candle soot if it could generate voltage.
However, the main concentration of this research is the use of different counter-
electrode which will serve as the catalyst. Counter-electrode comes in different materials;
graphene, candle soot, aluminum-based counter-electrode, carbon-based counter -electrode
and any other material that has the property to conduct electricity.
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Statement of the Problem
Since DSSC mainly focus on the use of different sensitizers, the researchers determined
another angle which is not discussed thoroughly by other studies. This study aims to compare the
different counter-electrode used in a dye-sensitized solar cell and it primarily aims to answer the
following questions:
1.) What is the difference in voltage between the 3-day observation?
2.) Which dye-sensitized solar cell exhibited the most voltage in terms of its
counter-electrode?
3.) Is there a significant difference between dye-sensitized solar cell and
commercial solar cell?
Significance of the Study
Dye-sensitized Solar Cells have been studied by many researchers for its ability to
generate electricity using natural dye. It does not contribute only in the field of research, but it
could also be beneficial to the field of science and technology and in energy conversion. First, it
is a great study for science-inclined students because of the knowledge it could provide for
scientific researches. Second, it could be beneficial to the community since it is a photovoltaic
device that converts visible light energy to electrical energy. It is a very useful device for
conducting electricity. Third, it could be advantageous to the researchers on the same field since
it could be a reference for them to conduct the same study. Consequently, it is very helpful for
future researchers as well because it could help them understand the basics of DSSC before they
conduct a study related to this topic.
Scope and Limitations
The scope of this study is to compare only the different counter-electrodes and to measure
the voltage exhibited by those counter-electrode. This research was conducted at Tanza National
Comprehensive High School year 2020-2021.
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However, this study does not include any description of the natural dye extracted from
Averrhoa bilimbi (kamias) flowers as sensitizer in DSSC because it will only serve as absorbing
substance for conversion of sunlight to electrical energy.
Conceptual Framework
Figure 1
Conceptual Framework
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

-Gathering of
Materials
-Photo-voltaic
-Extraction of efficiency of
Averrhoa bilimbi -3 days sunlight
exposure with Averrhoa bilimbi
(kamias) flowers
different time flowers dye
-Making of the Dye- intervals are sensitized solar
sensitized solar cell
conducted to the cell of each
(DSSC). counter-
slides.
- The researchers electrode.
used 3 kinds of
counter-electrodes;
Graphite, Candle
Soot, Mix of graphite
and candle soot
The figure above showed what are the process which were done in this research.
Gathering of materials was done first. The materials needed are conductive slides, TiO2 paste,
electrolyte, counter-electrode, and the natural dye. After the extraction of the kamias flowers, the
researchers made the other procedures for the dye-sensitized solar cell; this section is expounded
in methodology. For the process, the solar cell that will be made was stored under the sunlight for
the absorption of sunlight energy. Lastly, for the outcome, the energy that was absorbed by the
DSSC was tested for its photovoltaic efficiency.
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Figure 2
Structure of DSSC
TiO2 and Averrhoa

bilimbi (kamias) flower
extract
Counter-Electrode
Conducting Slide
Electrolyte
LOAD
This figure is mainly the structure of a Dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC). The cell is
composed of two different slides: anode and the cathode. The anode slides are composed of
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) soaked in Averrhoa bilimbi extract. On the other hand, cathode slide, is
the counter-electrode part. The electrolyte is a liquid poured between the anode and cathode
slides after the assembly for the stability. This structure is expounded in methodology part.
Definition of Terms
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These words are used in the study according to its intended purpose.
• Anode electrode - is an electrode from which a current enters into a polarized electrical
device.
• Cathode electrode - is the electrode from which conventional currents leave a polarized
electrical device.
• Conductive Glass - optically transparent and electrically conductive in thin layers on
glass using conductive coatings
• DSSC - Dye Sensitized Solar Cell
• Kamias (Averrhoa bilimbi) - a small (4 cm in length), green, acidic fruits that usually
starts with flowers
• Photovoltaic performance (PV) - the performance in conversion of light into electricity
using semiconducting materials that exhibit the photovoltaic effect, a phenomenon studied
in physics, photochemistry, and electrochemistry. The photovoltaic effect is commercially
utilized for electricity generation and as photo sensors.
• Millivolts - a unit of potential equal to one thousandth of a volt
• Natural Dye - dyes or colorants derived from plants, invertebrates, or minerals
• Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) - a white unreactive solid which occurs naturally as the mineral
rutile and is used extensively as a white pigment
• Voltmeter - an instrument used for measuring electric potential difference between two
points in an electric circuit.
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CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
CONCEPTUAL LITERATURES
Dye-sensitized Solar Cell
The Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) offer a technically and economically credible
alternative concept to present day p-n junction photovoltaic devices. Photovoltaic devices are
based on the concept of charge separation at an interface of two materials of different conduction
mechanism. These Dye-sensitized Solar Cells provide inexpensive fabrication and
characterization, and features (Grätzel, 2003).
Dye
Dye plays a big role regarding the high performance and efficiency of DSSC. The dye
should have a strong absorption in the visible light spectrum, carry a suitable attachment of the
chemical group to be bound with semiconductor and insert and put electrons in semiconductors.
Dye in DSSC is extracted from plants, flowers, leaves and other plant organs that contains
anthocyanins—which give color to fruits and chlorophyll—that makes green color to plants. This
dye is a sensitizer to DSSC ( Syafinar, Gomesh, Irwanto, Fareq & Irwan, 2015).
Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins are pigments that belong to the flavonoid group and it is usually red-orange
to blue-violet in color. It is mainly present in plant organs such as fruits, flowers, and leaves
(Wallace & Giusti, 2015)
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2)
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) became the semiconductor of choice. Titanium Dioxide is the
most successful photoanode material used in DSSC, because it is low-cost, widely available, non-
toxic, high-stability, biocompatible, and environment friendly (Ananth, Arumanayagam &
Murugakoothan, 2014).
Electrolyte
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The electrolyte is one of the most critical elements in DSSC's. The electrolyte has a big
influence on the process called light-to-electric conversion efficiency and in the long-term stability
of the devices. The efficiency of a DSSC device is determined by its photocurrent density,
photovoltage, and fill factor, so electrolyte was the most used for DSSC operations because of its
the responsible for the inner charge of the electrodes and it continuously regenerate the dye as
well as it regenerates itself in the process (Wu et al, 2015).
Counter Electrode
Counter electrode, one of the main components and essential material in developing
DSSC, collects the electron from an external circuit and helps in the regeneration of dye by
oxidation-reduction of electrolyte, which significantly affects the overall performance of
photovoltaic devices (Ahmed et al, 2018).
RELATED STUDIES
According to the study of Ananth, Vivek, Arumanayagam, and Murugakoothan (2014),

DSSCs can solve the present world's energy crisis by using, because it is an attempt to replicate
nature's photosynthesis process and has merits, like less expensive, simple, low cost to harvest
green energy from abundantly available sunlight. The aqueous extract was prepared by soaking
250 g of cleaned and dried seeds in 1000 mL of distilled water and kept for 24 h. The mixture was
filtered and dark brown extract was collected. The extract was concentrated and used as a dye
sensitizer to TiO2 nanoparticles for the fabrication of DSSC Pure TiO2 nanoparticles were
synthesized using sol–gel method by taking titanium isopropoxide as titanium precursor and an
alcohol with distilled water as hydrolysis medium.
Based on the study of Chang et al (2013) entitled "Characterization of Natural Dye

Extracted from Wormwood and Purple Cabbage for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells", In DSSCs, dye
plays an important role. Most of the natural dyes have narrower light absorption wavelength
ranges, so that the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the prepared DSSC cannot be
increased. However, cocktail pigments make use of the light absorption complementary features
of different pigments to increase the photoelectric conversion efficiency of DSSCs. The study
extracted chlorophyll dye from wormwood and anthocyanin dye from purple cabbage and mixed
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the extracted chlorophyll dye and anthocyanin dye at 5 different ratios to blend a cocktail dye so
as to increase the photoelectric conversion efficiency of DSSCs.
The researchers employed the spin coating method at three different speeds, 500, 1000,
and 1500 rpm, to acquire photoelectrode thin films of three different thicknesses, the researchers
also explored the effects of different thin film thicknesses on the photoelectric properties of the
prepared DSSCs. In the preparation of photoelectrode, P25 TiO2 nanoparticles were used, which
was coated on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) conductive glass by the spin coating method at
different spin coating speeds in order to form TiO2 thin films with different thicknesses. The DSSC
prepared by the cocktail dye achieves photoelectric conversion efficiency (η) of 1.95%, open-
circuit voltage () of 0.765 V, and short-circuit current density () of 5.83 mA/cm2. Moreover, the
prepared DSSC sensitized solely by chlorophyll extract of wormwood achieved a photoelectric
conversion efficiency (η) of 0.9%, whereas the DSSC sensitized solely by anthocyanin extract of
purple cabbage achieved a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 1.47%, achieving the longest
lifetime of electrons amongst these three dyes.
The current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of Lawsonia inermis seed extract sensitized

photo anodes prepared by conventional and pre dye treated TiO2 nanoparticles based DSSCs
under the AM 1.5 G illumination at 100 mW/cm2 is shown in Fig. 8. The light photon to electron
conversion efficiency of both cells was studied. The fill factor (FF) was found using the relation as
given below, FF ¼ ðImax VmaxÞ=ðIsc VocÞ where Imax and Vmax denote the maximum output
value of current and voltage respectively, and Isc and Voc denote the short-circuit current and
open-circuit voltage respectively.
In addition, according to the study of Gu, Yang, Zhu & Li (2018) entitled “Fabrication and
characterization of dye-sensitized solar cells based on natural plants,” their main focus is
comparing the absorption coefficient of carrots, mulberry, potato, purple cabbage, and grapes
through their anthocyanin and flavonoids. The researchers prepared the Titanium dioxide (TiO2)
by means of mixing. The powder of 2g of Titanium Dioxide, 1mL of dilute acetic acid solution, 1mL
of triton X-100, and deionized water. Then the product became slurry and was coated on the FTO
glass by rolling glass rods, and sintered at 450°C after drying. The dyes to be used was extracted
from purple cabbage, purple grape skin, mulberry, carrot, and potato and was put under darkness
before doing filtration process. Electrolytes was made by mixing potassium iodide and iodine in
15
20mL acetonitrile and 5mL ethylene glycol then stirred. Dropper was used to immerse different
type of electrolytes in gap between two electrodes resulting in fabrication of DSSC. The result
shows that the carrot, mulberry, and purple cabbage have a higher absorption coefficient than
potato and grapes using the UV-Vis transmittance spectra.
Electricity is one of the main things that people need nowadays. Availability of this is one
of the problems that the community's facing right now. (Jalali, 2020). There are places that are
not reachable by some electric companies which lead to lack of source of electrical energy.
Nowadays, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) as a third-generation and alternative of
conventional solar cells have been investigated, due to the easy fabrication, low-cost production,
and eco-friendly operation.
The DSSC are using synthetic or natural dyes as a light-harvesting element. Using natural
dyes as light harvesters, this also make an eco-friendly energy that can help solve problems in
many places (Arkian, 2020). In this paper, the efficacy of wild natural dyes as the sensitizer was
investigated for the fabrication of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs). The natural pigments were
extracted from Crocus sativus (Saffron), Allium cepa L (red onion), Malva sylvestris (Mallow), and
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) using solvent extraction method. Based on the UV–vis results, the
extracted solutions have been shown to contain anthocyanin or chlorophylls pigments, which are
excellent pigments required for the charge-carriers generation in the energy harvesting process
from the sunlight.
The efficacy of all sensitizers has been evaluated using the cyclic voltammetry and
current-voltage open circuit experiments of the fabricated DSSCs. The photovoltaic performance
of DSSCs in terms of efficiency, current, voltage, and filling factors was performed under standard
illumination of AM 1.5G having an irradiance of 100mWcm 2 (Golshan & Osfouri, 2020). The
results showed that the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the fabricated DSSCs were nearly
less than 2%, while the open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current density were from 0.43 to
0.55 V and 0.45–0.54 mAcm-2, respectively. The appropriate LUMO energy level and the band-
gap of these extracted dyes would enable them to become efficient sensitizer for utilizing in
fabricated DSSCs. Therefore, due to the existence of carbonyl and hydroxyl groups in dye’s
chemical structures, it enables them to bind to the TiO2layer, consequently, improve the electron
transfer, and enhance the energy conversion efficiency of the fabricated DSSC (Jalali et al, 2020).
16
Based on study of Erande and Hawaldar (2020), they fabricated a dye sensitized solar
cells with naturally occurring dye extracted from naturally found fruit juice (pomegranate juice) as
a sensitizer. The researchers also evaluate the highest conversion efficiency of DSSCs fabricated
using anthocyanin. First, extraction of anthocyanin was done using acidified ethanol. Next,
successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method was employed to prepare TiO2
film as photoanode on ITO glass. Then, the structural and morphological properties of photoanode
were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively
(Suryawanshi, Mohite, and Shelke, 2020).
The extracted dye absorption was evaluated by UV–Vis-IR spectroscopy. Lastly, the
conversion efficiency was measured by a sun simulator (Babar, Nipane & Pawar, 2020). Based
on the results, the highest power conversion efficiency (g) of 0.2% was achieved for the DSSCs
fabricated using anthocyanin (Erande et al, 2020).
By synthesizing the related studies gathered, the researches determine that some studies
have similarities in methods of extracting natural dye of TiO2. The researchers also determine
that the related studies have differences in methods of evaluating the extracted natural dye. All of
the related studies have the same method in extracting the natural dye, the related studies used
aqueous method. Among all the studies, there is one study that differs in method of evaluating
the extracted natural dye, it is the study of Vivek, Arumanayagam & Murugakoothan (2014)
entitled “Natural dye extract of lawsonia inermis seed as photosensitizer for titanium-dioxide
based dye-sensitized solar cells”. The researchers used sol-gel technique to evaluate the
extracted natural dye. While the other studies used the same method—UV-Vis method. Past
researches do not really focus on the use of Counter-electrode so as part of the research gap, it
would be a great help to test various counter-electrode to provide some knowledge to other
researchers who want to explore the same study.
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CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the methods and materials used in the study. This section expounds
the research design, research locale, research procedure, and the data analysis and collection.
Research Design
This study used an experimental research design. An Experimental Research Design is

one of the designs that was used in an experiment that will establish a scientific method to test
the cause and effect relationship under the condition controlled by the researchers. Specifically,
this study utilized a true-experimental research design.
The researchers manipulated the variable to identify the cause and effect relationship of
controlled variable and the dependent variable.
Research Locale
The flower materials for dye (Averrhoa bilimbi flower) was collected in Tanza, Cavite,
Philippines. The preparation of dyes, the process of Making and applying of Titanium Dioxide
(TiO2) Paste to the plant dye, the preparation of working counter-electrode and iodine solution for
the assembly and testing of DSSC was done in SCIENCE-STEM laboratory of Tanza NCHS-
Senior High School.
Research Procedures
Procurement of Materials
The flowers of Averrhoa bilimbi (kamias) was collected around Tanza, Cavite parameter.
The ethanol, alligator clips, graphite for counter-electrode was bought at stores in Cavite. The
conductive glass slide, potassium iodide, iodine, and ethylene glycol were bought online.
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Figure 1 Kamias flowers form Figure 2 Kamias flowers form

Santol, Tanza, Cavite Amaya 2, Tanza, Cavite
Figure 4 Glass Slides and

Figure 3 Stannous Chloride Multimeter
Preparation of Dyes
The collected approximately 200 g of Averrhoa bilimbi flowers were macerated and
soaked in an extracting solution consisting of 120 ml 70% ethanol for seven days and was stirred
gradually from time to time. After maceration, the resulting dye underwent filtration process using
clean cloth to remove the solid residue and this process was done repeatedly.
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Figure 5 Kamias flowers

during maceration
Figure 6 Filtration Process Figure 7 Filtered Dye
Making of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste
One hundred grams of Titanium dioxide (TiO2) powder was dissolved in a 120 mL of
vinegar. A drop of dishwashing liquid was added that served as a surfactant (helped in breaking
up the nanoparticles) and the solution was stirred lightly until the paste became slurry and the
consistency is much thicker than the water. (Cantila, Cordero, and Mapanao. 2018)
Figure 8 Pouring of vinegar Figure 9 Putting Stannous Figure 10 Mixing the TiO2
chloride to vinegar paste
Conversion of Microscopic Slides to Conductive Slides
The stannous chloride solution was spread using a brush on the surface of the microscopic
glass slides. It was heated using an alcohol lamp under a tripod with aluminum foil at its surface
for at least two minutes or until the stannous chloride solution becomes a bit clear. The process
will be repeated twice for each slide (Keefer et al., 2012).
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Figure 11 Spreading of Figure 12 Heating of Figure 13 Second Heating

Stannous chloride Stannous chloride of Stannous chloride
Application of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste
The prepared six (6) modified conductive slides was used for the application of the
Titanium Dioxide (TiO2). The conductive slides were taped on the edges using clear adhesive
tapes and the paste was applied using doctor-blade technique (spreading of the paste using
stirrer). The non-coated part of the slide served as an electrical contact. The conductive glass
slide was heated in 15 minutes with a temperature of 400°C to avoid cracking (Ganta, Jara &
Villanueva, 2017). Adding layers was done after the heating process and let it cool.
Figure 14 TiO2 paste in the slide Figure 15 Doctor-blade Figure 16 Heating of TiO2 paste
Technique
Application of Plant Dye
The cooled cathode-electrode slide was immersed in the extracted dye from the flower of
Averrhoa bilimbi for 15 minutes or until the whole TiO2 layers absorbed the dye. Dyes served as
21
the absorbing substance to enhance the performance of the DSSC because of the constituent
that it possessed. (Taya et al, 2014).
Preparation of Working Counter-Electrode
Two different counter-electrode and a combination of two was prepared for every two
cathode slides. First is using graphite as counter-electrode (Bhogaita et al., 2016). The
researchers scratched a graphite pencil on the conductive side of the slides. And for the other
anode electrode, the conductive slides were heated above the candle to let it soot spread over
the conductive slide. (Maulana, Pramono, Fanditya & Julius, 2015). Lastly is the combination of
graphite and candle soot, the researchers combined the two to test if two counter-electrode
combined together could enhance the photovoltaic performance of the cell.
Figure 17 Scratching a graphite Figure 18 Heating the slide to

pencil to the slide have candle soot
Assembly of DSSC
The cathode-electrode slides and the anode-electrode slides was put together using double
clips, overlapping each other and small space on each edge was made. Iodide solution was
dropped at one side of a combined slides and was spread using capillary-action until the whole
surfaces of the slides were covered.
Figure 19 Fabrication of DSSC
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DSSC Testing
The DSSC was placed under the sunlight from different interval: 11AM-12PM, 1PM-2PM,
3PM-4PM measuring the voltage produced every hour. A voltmeter was used to measure the
voltage produced by each conductive slide.
Figure 20 Testing of DSSC Figure 21 Using multimeter to

test the DSSC
Data Collection
The measured voltages from each slide after three (3) days of observation was presented
in line graph and tabular form for analysis of data.
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CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
After completing the assembly of dye-sensitized solar cells using Averrhoa bilimbi
(Kamias) flower as natural dye sensitizer with varying counter-electrode; graphite, candle soot,
and combination of graphite and candle soot, a three (3) days experimentation was done starting
from February 19-21, 2021 to test the efficiency or voltage output of each solar cells. The
fabricated solar cells were exposed to the sun then the voltages were measured using a digital
multi tester. The efficiency of each cells to absorb light were compared by observing the voltage
produced of each solar cell with two-hours interval for the solar cells to discharge before the next
observation. The efficiency was observed at 12:00 NN, 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. The results of the
conducted experiment are further discussed in this section.
Table 1
Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on day 1
Day 1
12:00 NN 2:00 PM 4:00 PM Average
Graphite A 135 mV 156 mV 172 mV 154 mV
Graphite B 120 mV 139 mV 157 mV 139 mV
Candle Soot A 67 mV 94 mV 104 mV 87 mv
Candle Soot B 76 mV 97 mV 113 mV 95 mV
Combination A 167 mV 198 mV 211 mV 192 mV
Combination B 189 mV 218 mV 239 mV 215 mv
The table above shows the results of Day 1 observation. The day was fine and sunny.
Results shows that cells that uses the combination of candle soot and graphite as the counter
electrode produced the highest voltage. Cells that uses the said counter electrode produced a
voltage that ranges from 167 mV to 239 mV while the cells that uses the candle soot has the least
amount of voltage produced which recorded a voltage that ranges from 67 mV to 139 mV
24
Table 2
Day 2
Candle Soot A 59 mV 71 mV 92 mV 74 mV
Combination B 167 mV 193 mV 215 mV 192 mV
The table above shows the results of Day 2 observation. The day was fine but a little bit
cloudy. Results shows that cells that uses the combination of candle soot and graphite as the
counter electrode produced the highest voltage. Cells that uses the said counter electrode
produced a voltage that ranges from 137 mV to 215 mV while the cells that uses the candle soot
has the least amount of voltage produced which recorded a voltage that ranges from 59 mV to
101 mV
Table 3

Day 3
Candle Soot A 65 mV 100 mV 102 mV 89 mV
Combination B 187 mV 221 mV 226 mV 211 mV
25
The table above shows the results of Day 3 observation. The day was fine and sunny.
Results shows that cells that uses the combination of candle soot and graphite as the counter
electrode produced the highest voltage. Cells that uses the said counter electrode produced a
voltage that ranges from 170 mV to 226 mV while the cells that uses the candle soot has the least
amount of voltage produced which recorded a voltage that ranges from 65 mV to 107 mV
Figure 1
Day 1 First Cell (A) Results
Average Voltage Produced First Cell (A) of Different Counter-

Electrodes-(Day 1)
Average Voltage Produced
250
200 192
150 154
100 87
50
0
Graphite A Candle Soot A Mixed A
The figure above shows the average voltage produced first cell A of different counter
electrodes. After the experimentation, the results showed that slides that used mixed of candle
soot and graphite as the counter electrode produced the highest voltage that averaged 192 mV.
It is followed by the slides that used graphite as counter electrode that averaged 154 mV and the
slides that used candle soot has the lowest amount of voltage produced that average 87 mV
respectively.
Figure 2
26
Day 1 Second Cell (B) Results
Average Voltage Produced Second Cell (B) of Different Counter-

Electrodes-(Day 1)
250
200 215
150 139
100 95
50
0
The figure above shows the average voltage produced second cell B of different counter
respectively.
Figure 3
Average Voltage Produced First Cell (A) of Different

Counter-Electrodes-(Day 2)
200
150 159
144
100
74
50
0
27
respectively.
Figure 4
Average Voltage Produced Second Cell (B) of Different

Counter-Electrodes-
(Day 2)
250
200 192
150
128
100
82
50
0
respectively.
Figure 5
28
Average Voltage Produced First Cell (A) of Different Counter-

Electrodes - (Day 3)
200
189
150 148
100
89
50
0
respectively.
Figure 6
Average Voltage Produced Second Cell (B) of Different

Counter-Electrodes - (Day 3)
250
200 211
150 142
100 94
50
0
29
respectively.
According to the study of Herman and Wiesner (2013), An individual commercial

photovoltaic cell produces an “Open Circuit Voltage” of about 0.5 to 0.6 volts (typically around
580 mV) no matter how large they are. Open circuit voltage means that the cell is not connected
to any external load and is therefore not producing any current flow. The cell voltage remains
fairly constant just as long as there is sufficient irradiance light from dull to bright sunlight. In
comparison to the average voltage produced by the DSSC is about 0.2 volts (226mV). The results
of the experiment that can be seen are much lower than the commercial solar cells. The
researchers had observed such various reasons that may conclude the different results that were
gathered from the performances of six solar cells.
The researchers prepared a Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells using the dye extracted from the
flowers of Averrhoa bilimbi (Kamias). The six solar cells were examined by varying the counter-
electrodes. After the preparation, the six solar cells were exposed in the sunlight within three (3)
days to observe its performance.
The researchers varied the time of experimentation with the interval of two-hours starting
from 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM. The time duration was stated as the hottest time of the day. The 2-
hours interval of observation was done for the solar cells to discharge before the next observation
so that obtaining biased results will be avoided. The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and
Astronomical Services Administration said that this is the time where the sun is at its fiercest. The
peak times started from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. Usually, the hottest times will start from 12 noon because
heat is gradually building up until 5PM (PAGASA, 2012). The hottest time of the day is around 3
PM because in this time, more heat is arriving at the earth than leaving 12 noon is the peak hour
where in this time, heat is building up until the afternoon (The Farmers' Almanac, 2018). There
are such various reasons that may conclude the different results that was gathered from the
performances of six solar cells.
30
The results showed that the voltage produced by the solar cells depended on the amount
of sunlight. The trend show-increasing amount of voltage produced except in the observation
period during the second day. During this day the weather becomes cloudy and it results to the
difference in the voltages produced by each solar cell. Based from the figures presented, the solar
cells with the counter-electrode of combination of graphite and candle soot produced the highest
voltage among all the cells in the experiment. Yet, the voltage produced of the cells with only
graphite as counter-electrode were almost the same with the voltage produced of the combined
counter-electrode. Lastly, the cells with only candle soot as its counter-electrode obtained the
lowest amount of voltage readings in 3 days of observation.
31
CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter presents the summary of the findings, drawn conclusions, and the
recommendations for future research direction.
SUMMARY
The main purpose of this paper is to have a variation of voltage using different counter-
electrode and to determine which counter-electrode is more effective based on the voltage
exhibited. The researchers extracted the dye from Averrhoa bilimbi (kamias) flowers for a week
using 70% ethyl alcohol and. They prepared twelve (12) modified microscopic slides and
converted it into conductive slides by applying the stannous chloride solution on top of the slide
and by heating it. After the conversion, the application of titanium dioxide (TiO2) was done by
simply performing the doctor-blade technique on the first six (6) slides, and it was heated through
alcohol lamp burner before adding layers. The resulting slides were then immersed in the plant
dye until the slide absorbed it. The six (6) left converted slides were prepared for counter-
electrode; graphite, candle soot, and mixed. For the graphite, a scratch on the surface of the two
slides were performed; for the candle soot, the slides were heated using a candle until the soot
spread over the two slides; and lastly in mixed graphite and candle soot, the mixed process of the
first two counter-electrode were made. The researchers combined the anode slides and the
cathode slides using a double-clips sideways and dropped a little amount of iodide electrolyte on
the space of the slides. Six (6) dye-sensitized solar cells were produced with three (3) different
varying counter-electrodes. Two (2) dye-sensitized solar cells for each counter electrode was
made. For the testing, voltmeter was used. Three (3) - day observation was done and it showed
that mixed counter-electrode generated the most voltage, specifically the mixed B. This concluded
that among the other dye-sensitized solar cell, the mixed counter-electrode seems to be the most
effective counter-electrode used by the researchers. Although the dye-sensitized solar cells
exhibited a voltage, it is still insufficient to compare to a commercial solar cell.
CONCLUSION
Based on the light of the findings, the researchers concluded on the 3-day observation
are of the following:
32
The amount of voltage exhibited by the solar cells depended on the amount of sunlight.
Since the 3-day observation was done, the researchers observed that the more radiant energy
absorbed by the cells, and the more it was exposed under sunlight, the more it generates voltage.
The mixed counter-electrode exhibited the most voltage in the experimentation as seen
on the tables above.
Commercial solar cells have more voltage than the dye-sensitized solar cell because
DSSCs offer a low-cost investment, and are made only to produce a cheaper and an alternative
source of energy unlike the commercial cells which are expensive.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Since this study is all about the characterization of Dye Sensitized Solar Cell using different
counter electrodes: Graphite, Candle Soot and Mixed of the Graphite and Candle soot. For further
improvements of this study, the researchers want to recommend the following points:
Since the researchers only used low budget materials and place due to financial problems
and current pandemic, the researchers recommend to use a better facility and materials in
conducting the experiment
Although the testing of the produced voltage of each slide was proven positive, it is clearly
stated that the amount of sunlight is one of the factors that may affect the results that is why in
the future, the future researchers that will be doing a similar study should gather information about
a day’s possible weather.
The researchers recommend to start to save money as early as possible to have a sufficient
fund for the upcoming researchers to be able to conduct a better testing facilities and materials
for the experimentation because as what the researchers experienced, the researchers encounter
problems involving the funds that they are going to use for their experimentation and materials
together with their time and schedule in conducting those steps.
The implication of this study is to consider other counter-electrode to aside from the
abovementioned used by the researchers. Additionally, having varying plant dye is a must as well
to help the performance of the cell.
33
REFERENCES
Ahmed, U., Alizadeh, M., Rahim, N.A., Shahabuddin, S., Ahmed, M.S., Pandey,A.K. (2018). A
comprehensive review on counter electrodes for dye sensitized solar cells: A special focus
on Pt-TCO free counter electrodes. Solar Energy, vol. 174, no. 1, pp. 1097-1125.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2018.10.010
Ananth, S., Vivek, P., Arumanayagam, T., Murugakoothan, P. (2014). Natural dye extract of
lawsonia inermis seed as photo sensitizer for titanium-dioxide based dye sensitized solar
cells. Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, vol. 128,
420-426. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2014.02.169
Boschloo, G., Hagfeldt, A., Kloo, L., Pettersson, H., Sun, L. (2010). Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells.
Chemical Reviews, 110(11), 6595–6663. https://doi.org/10.1021/cr900356p
Calogero, G., Yum, J.H., Sinopoli A., Di Marco, G., Grätzel, M., Nazeeruddin M.K. (2012).
Anthocyanins and betalains as light-harvesting pigments for dye-sensitized solar cells.
Solar Energy, vol. 86, no. 5, pp. 1563–1575.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2012.02.018
Chang, H.M. Wu, T.L. Chen, K.D. Huang, C.S. Jwo, Y.J. Lo (2010). Dye-sensitized solar cell
using natural dyes extracted from spinach and ipomoea. El Sevier.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2009.10.057
Erande, P.Y. Hawaldar, S.R. Suryawanshi, B.M. Babar, A.A. Mohite, H.D. Shelke, S.V. Nipane,
U.T. Pawar (2020). Extraction of natural dye (specifically anthocyanin) from pomegranate
fruit source and their subsequent use in DSSC. Materials today: Proceedings
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2020.06.357
Giusti, M., Wallace, T. (2015). Anthocyanins. Advances in Nutrition, 6(5), 620-622.

https://doi.org/10.3945/an.115.009233
Grätzel, M. (2003). Dye-sensitized solar cells. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology C:

Photochemistry Reviews, 4(21), 145-153. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1389-5567(03)00026-
1
34
Gu, P., Yang, D., Zhu, X., Sun, H., Li, J. (2018). Fabrication and characterization of dye-sensitized
solar cells based on natural plants. Chemical Physics Letters, vol. 693, 16-22.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cplett.2018.01.008
Li, Y., Li, Chun., Yeh, M., Huang, K., Chen, P., Vittal, R., Ho, K. (2015). Graphite with Different
Structures as Catalysts for Counter Electrodes in Dye-sensitized Solar Cells.
Electrochimica Acta, vol. 179, 211-219. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.electacta.2015.06.007
Shanmugama, V., Manoharanb, S., Anandanb, S.,Murugan, R. (2013). Performance of dye-

sensitized solar cells fabricated with extracts from fruits of ivy gourd and flowers of red
frangipani as sensitizers. Spectrochimica Acta A, vol. 104, pp. 35–40, 2013.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2012.11.098
Syafinar, R., Gomesh, N., Irwanto, M., Fareq, M., Irwan, YM. (2015). Chlorophyll Pigments as
Nature Based Dye for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC). Energy Procedia, vol. 79, 896-
902. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egypro.2015.11.584
Wei, Y., Jin, Q., Ren, T. (2011). Expanded graphite/pencil-lead as counter electrode for dye-
sensitized solar cells. Solid-State Electronics, 63(1), 76-82.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sse.2011.05.019
Wu et al. (2015). Electrolytes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells. Chemical Reviews, 15(5), 2136–
2173. https://doi.org/10.1021/cr400675m
Zhou, H., Wu, L., Gao Y., Ma, T. (2011). Dye-sensitized solar cells using 20 natural dyes as
sensitizers. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A, vol. 219, no. 2-3, pp. 188–194.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotochem.2011.02.008
35
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
Taxonomy
Figure 1: Averrhoa bilimbi, commonly known as kamias
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Tracheophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Oxalidales
Family: Oxalidaceae – oxalis
Genus: Averrhoa L.
Species: Averrhoa bilimbi L. – bilimbi
36
APPENDIX B
Photo Documentation
Figure 1 Kamias flowers form Figure 2 Kamias flowers form

Santol, Tanza, Cavite Figure 3 Stannous Chloride
Amaya 2, Tanza, Cavite
Figure 4 Glass Slides and Figure 5 Kamias flowers

Figure 6 Filtration Process
Multimeter during maceration
Figure 7 Filtered Dye Figure 8 Pouring of vinegar Figure 9 Putting Stannous

chloride to vinegar
37
Figure 10 Mixing the TiO2 Figure 11 Spreading of Figure 12 Heating of

paste Stannous chloride Stannous chloride
Figure 13 Second Heating Figure 15 Doctor-blade

Figure 14 TiO2 paste in the slide
of Stannous chloride Technique
Figure 16 Heating of TiO2 paste Figure 17 Scratching a graphite Figure 18 Heating the slide to
pencil to the slide have candle soot
38
Figure 19 Fabrication of DSSC Figure 20 Testing of DSSC
Figure 21 Using multimeter to

test the DSSC
39
APPENDIX C
GANTT Chart
Activities October November December January February March

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 1st 2nd 3rd 4th
Brainstorming
of Ideas
Listing Possible
Title
Title Defense
Writing of
Chapter 1
Screening of
Chapter 1
Writing of
Chapter 2
Screening of
Chapter 2
Writing of
Chapter 3
Pre-oral
Defense
Collection of
Materials
Day 1 of
Experimentation
Day 2 of
Experimentation
Consultation of
Data
Observation
Process
Writing of
Chapter 4
Writing of
Chapter 5
Writing of
Reference List
Submission of
Semi-final
Paper
Final Defense
Editing of Final
Paper
Printing of Final
Paper
40
APPENDIX D
Financial Report
Figure 22 TiO2 Powder Receipt Figure 23 Payment for Stannous

chloride and Ethylene glycol.
41
Food Php 360.00
❖ Materials
• Binding Clips Php 60.00
• Glass Slides Php 70.00
• Ethanol Php 90.00
• Dishwashing Liquid Php 6.00
• Stannous Chloride Php 350.00
• Ethylene Glycol Php 450.00
• Shipping Php 300.00
• Titanium Dioxide Php 100.00
• Vinegar Php 12.00
TOTAL Php 1798.00
42
Curriculum Vitae
Adrian Magbanua Apulog is the youngest son of Marivic Magbanua Apulog and Marcelo
Afable Apulog. He was born on October 5 in the year 2002 and is currently residing at Amaya 1,
Tanza, Cavite with his parents, elder brother Arviemar Magbanua Apulog, and sister Airah Mae
Magbanua Apulog. He finished his primary education in Felipe G. Calderon Elementary School,
his secondary education in Tanza National Comprehensive High School and now in the 12th
Grade in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) strand of Tanza Senior
High School. He loves to play basketball, online games and listening music
43
Daniel Jairus Umali Galera is the youngest son of Elmer Galera and Christine Galera. He
was born on December 17 in the year 2002 and is currently residing in Bucal, Tanza, Cavite with
his parents, elder sister Crizel Galera and brother Exequel Jan Galera. He finished his primary
education in Felipe Calderon Elementary School, his secondary education in Tanza National
Comprehensive High school and now in the 12th Grade in the STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics) strand of Tanza Senior High school. He likes to watch anime and
play online games.
44
John Michael Palustre Nuevo, born in October 16, 2002 is the youngest son of Susan
Nuevo and Efren Nuevo. They are currently residing in Brgy. Poblacion IV, Tanza, Cavite with his
older brother and parents. He finished his primary education at Felipe Calderon Elementary
School and his secondary education in Tanza National Comprehensive High School and currently
a Grade 12 student at Tanza Senior High School under STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Mathematics) strand. He loves to engage himself in sports especially basketball and
listen to music especially from TWICE.
45
Christian Lly Regoso Sosa is the eldest son of Cheryl Regoso Sosa and Relly Hernandez
Sosa. He was born on October 3 in the year 2002 and is currently residing at Santol, Tanza,
Cavite with his parents and his younger brother, Chean Rain Regoso Sosa. He finished his
primary education in Felipe G. Calderon Elementary School, his secondary education in Tanza
National Comprehensive High School and now in the 12th Grade in the STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) strand of Tanza Senior High School. He loves to
collect plants especially cacti and listening to music when doing a work.
46
Shean Royce Timpoc is the only son of Sheridan Timpoc and Russell Timpoc. He was
born on October 22, 2002 and is currently residing in Amaya, Tanza, Cavite. He finished his
primary education in Amaya Elementary School and now taking STEM strand in SHS. He likes to
write and play online games.
47

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TANZA NATIONAL COMPREHENSIVE HIGH

SCHOOL (SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL)

Characterization of Dye-sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) using Averrhoa

In Partial fulfillment for the requirements

Tanza National Comprehensive High School-SHS

This study is dedicated to the respective parents or guardians of the researchers.

Dye-sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) are photovoltaic devices that are

Keywords: Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell; Counter-electrode; Photovoltaic devices

Background of the Study 7

Statement of the Problem 9

Significance of the Study 9

Scope and Limitation 9

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Making of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste 20

Conversion of Microscopic Slides to Conductive Slides 20

Application of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste 21

Application of Plant Dye 21

Preparation of Working Counter-Electrode 22

CHAPTER 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1 Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on Day 1 24

Table 2: Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on Day 2 25

Table 3: Amount of voltage produced in every counter-electrode on Day 3 25

Figure 1: Day 1 First Cell (A) Results 26

Figure 2: Day 1 Second Cell (B) Results 27

Figure 3: Day 2 First Cell (A) Results 27

Figure 4: Day 2 Second Cell (B) Results 28

Figure 5: Day 3 First Cell (A) Results 29

Figure 6: Day 3 Second Cell (B) Results 29

CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Appendix B: Photo Documentation 37

Appendix C: GANTT Chart 40

Appendix D: Financial Report 41

Background of the Study

Additionally, DSSC also has a counter-electrode—which will serve as catalyst and

Statement of the Problem

Significance of the Study

Scope and Limitations

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

TiO2 and Averrhoa

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Dye-sensitized Solar Cell

Titanium Dioxide (TiO2)

According to the study of Ananth, Vivek, Arumanayagam, and Murugakoothan (2014),

Based on the study of Chang et al (2013) entitled "Characterization of Natural Dye

The current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of Lawsonia inermis seed extract sensitized

This study used an experimental research design. An Experimental Research Design is

Figure 1 Kamias flowers form Figure 2 Kamias flowers form

Figure 4 Glass Slides and

Figure 5 Kamias flowers

Figure 6 Filtration Process Figure 7 Filtered Dye

Making of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste

Conversion of Microscopic Slides to Conductive Slides

Figure 11 Spreading of Figure 12 Heating of Figure 13 Second Heating

Application of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Paste

Application of Plant Dye

Preparation of Working Counter-Electrode

Figure 17 Scratching a graphite Figure 18 Heating the slide to

Figure 19 Fabrication of DSSC