Single crystal mesoporous ZnO platelets as efficient photoanodes for sensitized solar cells

We propose here novel nanostructured photoanodes based on ZnO platelets giving high photovoltaic performances when employed in sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Thanks to the structural properties of these ZnO nanosheets, the photoanodes encompass high porosity and efficient charge transport, fundamental requirements to achieve efficient DSSCs. We prove in particular how the photoanode micro-nanostructure determines the ultimate device performances impacting also on the charge transport properties by influencing the back recombination reaction. The results we obtained could help the design of tailored scaffolds targeting several applications.