Computational Investigation of Tuning the Electron-Donating Ability in Metal-Free Organic Dyes Featuring an Azobenzene Spacer for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells.

ABSTRACT: A series of donor??-conjugated spacer?acceptor (D???A) organic dyes featuring an azobenzene spacer were designed as chromic dyes and investigated computationally. The electron-donating strength was modified by introducing electron-donating units to the donor side. In particular, the trans?cis isomerization of the azobenzene-based dyes and its effect on the optical and electronic properties were further scrutinized. In both trans and cis conformers, a gradual increase in electron-donating strength promoted the natural charge separation between donor and acceptor moieties, thereby allowing the absorption of a longer wavelength of visible light. Importantly, the conformational change of the azobenzene bridge resulted in different absorption spectra and light-harvesting properties. The azobenzene-based dyes will open up a new research path for chromic dye-sensitized solar cells.

SUBMITTER: Rashid MAM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6359366 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature