Abstract: A process of sintering metal oxide films from formulations based on particles of metal oxides is described. The process includes: a) adding to the formulation particles or molecules an absorbing compound absorbing the electromagnetic radiation in visible and/or infrared spectrum regions; b) mixing until a homogeneous dispersion of the absorbing compound in the formulation is obtained; c) depositing the formulation in form of a film on a substrate; and d) irradiating the film with an electromagnetic radiation in the visible and/or infrared regions of the spectrum. A process for the production of photoelectrochemical cells is also described.

Abstract: A process of manufacturing the catalytic layer of the counter-electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells is described. The process has the following steps: depositing a catalyst precursor paste or precursor solution layer over the counter-electrodes conductive and transparent substrates, by screen printing, doctor blade, spin coating or brush,and irradiating the catalyst precursor paste or precursor solution layer with a continuous wave or pulsed laser beam having a wavelength in the range of infrared, visible, or ultraviolet, thus curing the precursor and forming a catalyst layer over the conductive and transparent counter-electrode substrates.