Two-layer TiO₂ nanostructured photoelectrode with underlying film obtained by microwave-activated chemical bath deposition (MW-CBD)

A photoelectrode structure is proposed in which a dense and thin TiO 2 film is grown on the conducting support using microwave activated chemical bath deposition (MW-CBD) before depositing the thicker and porous TiO2 layer. IPCE and open-circuit photovoltage spectra of the two-layer TiO2 nanostructured photoelectrode are presented. Better characteristics for the two-layer structure were found when compared to those of a single layer without the MW-CBD TiO2 film. Possible factors leading to parameter improvements are discussed. Use of MW-CBD underlying films can contribute to the development of liquid- and solid-dye-sensitized solar cells, as well as facilitate the use of other redox couples.