Using Grätzel cells as Arduino-controlled photosensors: proposals for the insertion of nanoscience and nanotechnology in classroom

Abstract In this work, the production of Grätzel cells, also called dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), their use as Arduino-controlled photosensors, and their application for the inclusion of nanoscience and nanotechnology in educational activities are reported. Grätzel cells were manufactured using titanium dioxide ( T i O 2 ) nanoparticles, fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) coated glass, KI/I2 solution, graphite, and grape juice as a sensitizer. Among the educational proposals suggested for the integrated use of DSSCs and Arduino, the assembly of a photometer for applications in optics and the construction of a light distance sensor stand out. As a suggestion for further studies, the UV-Vis spectra of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and grape juice were obtained and analyzed in order to illustrate how a deeper understanding of the materials used in DSSCs can provide answers about the mechanisms responsible for the detection properties of Grätzel cells in the context of the nanoscopic world.