Abstract: The present application relates to a copper oxide nanocrystal with a cupric oxide (CuO) shell surrounding a cuprous oxide (Cu2O) core. The copper oxide core/shell nanocrystals may be used as photo-absorbers in photovoltaic cells. The copper oxide core/shell nanocrystals form a p-type semiconductor layer that coats and fills the interstitial gaps of the n-type semiconductor mesoporous structure in a photovoltaic cell. The n-type semiconductor layer may include, for example, titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles.

Abstract: The present application discloses compositions for thin film dye-sensitized solar cells in which nanoparticles of semiconductor material are tethered together in a nanonodular network using a multi-functional linking compound.

Abstract: A dye-sensitized solar cell (“DSSC”) includes an anode, a cathode, a semiconductor layer, a dye covalently attached to the semiconductor layer, and an electrolyte, wherein the semiconductor layer includes a metal oxide and an organic or inorganic insulating component to facilitate forward transfer of electrons to the anode. The semiconductor additive or insulating component may include, for example, alpha aluminum oxide, gamma aluminum oxide, fumed silica, silica, diatomaceous earth, aluminum titanate, hydroxyapatite, calcium phosphate, iron titanate, and mixtures thereof.