' Development of lightweight, flexible DSSCs based on natural dyes for aerospatial applications

Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) offer a lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective alternative to conventional photovoltaic technologies, but their efficiency and stability under harsh conditions remain key challenges. The project aims to address these limitations by developing DSSCs based on natural pigments (bixin, phycocyanin, phycoerythrin) extracted and stabilized using deep eutectic solvents (DES), a green and innovative approach. This PhD project leverages the complementary expertise of the LCA (France) in the chemical functionalization of natural molecules, ultrasound-assisted extraction, solvent design, DSSC formulation and the University of Tanjungpura (Indonesia) in green extraction, deep eutectic solvents, tropical biomass valorization, pigment stabilization and DSSC conception. The project aligns with BEST's 3rd pillar by addressing sustainable transitions in energy and resources, with a specific focus on aeronautical and space applications. Expected outcomes include prototypes of flexible, UV-resistant DSSCs, as well as scientific publications and potential patents. The workflow, as detailed in the appendix will be first to optimize extraction of the dyes using DES and ultrasound to reach high extraction yield with minimum dye degradation. Bixin extracted from Annatto will be functionalized after validation of several potential electron donor groups by molecular modeling. Functionalized and natural dyes will be associated in cosensitization to cover a broad range of solar spectrum. They will be associated/complexed with metal, clays, ionic liquids , deep eutectic solvent to form an electrolyte resistant to high temperature, and UV exposure. DSSC will then be formulated with TiO2 and different supports to form a flexible DSSC without leakage. Both techno-functionality and environmental impact will be considered for DSSC final formulation. École doctorale : SDM - SCIENCES DE LA MATIERE - Toulouse Direction : Jean-François FABRE Financement : MSCA COFUND BEST