Ceramic Based Solar Cells in Fiber Form

The way of assembly and utility of a photoelectrochemical solar cell in fiber form has been investigated. A long, flexible tubular solar cell is assembled by building up the solar cell from the inside out. A conductive stainless steel is used as internal electrode. This electrode is coated with semiconductive nanosized TiO{sub 2} powder. The efficiency of different organic dyes used to sensitize the TiO{sub 2} powder is illustrated. The assembly of electrode, ceramic powder and electrolyte is incorporated into a transparent polymer tube that has been coated with conductive polymer on the inside. Considerations for the use of these cells in the textile area will be described. (orig.)