Photoelectrochemical Cell Using Polythiophene Film

Abstract
A photoelectrochemical solar cell is fabricated using polythiophene film as an active photoelectrode and a lead plate as a counter electrode in Pb(ClO4)2/acetonitrile electrolyte. Open circuit voltage of ca. 0.8 V and short circuit current of ∼0.2 mA/cm2 with a conversion efficiency of greater than 0.03% are obtained under illumination of approximately 1 sun. Photoinduced charging of the cell is also demonstrated for a long period of illumination, indicating possible application as a cell with photovoltaic element and rechargeable battery functions.