Unveiling the Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells: A Journey from Synthetic to Natural Dyes

Historically dominant, fossil fuels are ceding ground to cleaner, economically viable renewable energy, notably solar power, propelled by concerns over limited availability and environmental impact. Solar energy is abundant and eco-friendly, and employs early cell designs with crystalline silicon, demonstrating commendable efficiency but significant financial implications. In response, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), a subset of thin-film solar cells, emerge as a cost-effective alternative for energy conversion with streamlined fabrication. Addressing the need for eco-friendly solutions, natural dyes gain traction as substitutes for heavy-metal-laden synthetic counterparts. DSSCs, particularly with natural dyes, offer sustainable options, envisioning the use of environmentally friendly pigments in remote agricultural settings. These economical and eco-friendly natural pigments play a pivotal role in capturing electrical energy from solar radiation within DSSCs. This review comprehensively evaluates DSSCs' efficiency, specifically comparing natural dye performance with synthetics. Additionally, it explores the potential future use of fungal pigments for DSSC pigmentation despite their current lower efficiency. The promising attributes of enhanced efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness in natural dyes, including fungal pigments, make them a compelling avenue for further exploration in DSSC technology. The ultimate goal is to develop natural DSSCs that offer superior efficiency, satisfactory performance, affordability, and minimal environmental impact.