Researchers from the Nanomaterials Research Centre at Massey University in New Zealand have developed synthetic dyes that can be used to generate electricity at one tenth of the cost of current silicon-based solar panels. These photosynthesis-like compounds work in low-light conditions and can be cheaply incorporated into window-panes and building materials, thereby turning them into generators of electricity.
Dr Wayne Campbell and researchers in the center have developed a range of coloured dyes for use in dye-sensitized solar cells. The synthetic dyes are made from simple organic compounds closely related to those found in nature. The green dye Dr Campbell is synthetic chlorophyll derived from the light-harvesting pigment plants use for photosynthesis. Other dyes being tested in the cells are based on hemoglobin, the compound that give blood its color.
Dr Campbell says that unlike the silicon-based solar cells currently on the market, the 10×10cm green demonstration cells generate enough electricity to run a small fan in low-light conditions – making them ideal for cloudy climates. The dyes can also be incorporated into tinted windows that trap to generate electricity.
He says the green solar cells are more environmentally friendly than silicon-based cells as they are made from titanium dioxide – a plentiful, renewable and non-toxic white mineral obtained from New Zealand’s black sand. Titanium dioxide is already used in consumer products such as toothpaste, white paints and cosmetics.
“The refining of pure silicon, although a very abundant mineral, is energy-hungry and very expensive. And whereas silicon cells need direct sunlight to operate efficiently, these cells will work efficiently in low diffuse light conditions,” Dr Campbell says.
“The expected cost is one 10th of the price of a silicon-based solar panel, making them more attractive and accessible to home-owners.”
12 responses so far ↓
1 Engr. Murad // Apr 6, 2007 at 5:11 pm
Sounds great.Very much cost effective for regenrating power………this is also good cz of free from pollution
2 jkillah // Apr 6, 2007 at 7:26 pm
w0ot for Solar Power!
I need a one of those solar dye shirts, so I can store power AND block sunburns!
3 vemrion // Apr 9, 2007 at 4:59 pm
One question: Where and when can I buy one of these? It’s about time the power company starts sending me a check every month, rather than a bill.
4 Dr. OmPrakash G. Kulkarni // Apr 12, 2007 at 9:32 am
Respected Prof. Sir,
It very interesting to know your work. How can I get sample for my trials. Is it possible to commercially produce on large scale ? If yes how.
With regards
Dr. OmPrakash G. Kulkarni
5 Gabriel Garcia // May 6, 2007 at 8:31 pm
nesecito informacion para revender sus paneles en mi tienda en Puerto Rico favor llamarme a (787) 888-0303
6 Gabriel Garcia // May 6, 2007 at 9:13 pm
I need to know , how can I get that pannels for resale in Puerto Rico
7 Dr. OmPrakash G. Kulkarni // Jul 1, 2007 at 3:15 pm
I had requested for your contact. But no reply. I will be obliged if you kindly reply to my mail dated 12th Apr 2007
8 JC // Aug 13, 2007 at 4:31 pm
Really interesting; More info about how to produce it or buy it will be really apreciated.
I’m working on making my house a green house, from the electricity to water treatment.
Also I’m creating a organic vegetable garden for our own use.
If you need a place to test it, I live near the equator, which could give you tons of information.
9 Philip Goatly // Aug 23, 2007 at 11:20 am
Please keep me updated on developments.
How big a panel would be needed to produce 1Kw of electricity/hour in low light levels?
I live in the UK what sort of performance could one expect here?
10 JASON LEGG // Jul 9, 2008 at 6:54 pm
I am very, very interested in the cost effectiveness of this material. Please contact me as soon as you can if its not too late. I am looking to start dealing to the public in my area. thanks
11 Crissyx // Jul 18, 2008 at 3:12 pm
We are very interested in this product, do you have a representative in America for this? Where can you purchase?
12 Clean Tech Intro: The Solar Family : CleanTechnica // Jul 21, 2008 at 1:33 am
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