Solaris Nanosciences reports that it has demonstrated a dye sensitized
solar cell, referred to as a DSSC or Graetzel Cell. The new cell, which is based on low-cost manufacturing materials and a
non-toxic chemical process, has the unusual capacity to be recharged through the insertion of replacement dye, used to replace
worn-out degraded dye in the cell. According to Nabil M. Lawandy, CEO of Solaris Nanosciences. "Not only can we replace the
original dye, but we have shown that newer, more efficient dyes, resulting from ongoing efforts worldwide, can be used in
recharging. This effectively allows for efficiency upgrades over the life of the installed system."
Mr. Lawandy also went on to speak about the low cost process "This
low cost process, which can be performed by the existing base of heating and air conditioning businesses, requires less than
thirty minutes and takes the operating life of these photovoltaics (PV) beyond that of silicon to over 30 years."
As far as the further development of the technology goes, Solaris
plans a large scale prototype, which is to be tested at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Partners involved
with the project expect to determine if the technology is applicable to the building and construction industry.
The Graetzel cell was invented at the Swiss Federal Institute of
Technology Lausanne by Professor Michael Graetzel.
