Abstract: Disclosed are methods for forming nanoparticle films using electrophoretic deposition. The methods comprise exposing a substrate to a solution, the solution comprising substantially dispersed nanoparticles, an organic solvent, and a polymer characterized by a backbone comprising Si—O groups. The methods further comprise applying an electric field to the solution, whereby a nanoparticle film is deposited on the substrate. Suitable polymers include polysiloxanes, polysilsesquioxanes and polysilicates. Coated glass windows and methods of forming the coated glass windows using the solutions are also disclosed.

Abstract: Composite electrode materials for DSSCs, DSSCs incorporating the composite electrode materials and methods for making the composite electrode materials are provided. The composite electrode materials are composed of semiconductor nanofibers embedded in a matrix of semiconductor nanoparticles. DSSCs incorporating the composite electrode materials exhibit both increased carrier transport and improved light harvesting, particularly at wavelengths of 600 nm or greater (e.g., 600 nm to 800 nm or greater).