Effect of growth temperature variation on the morphology and performance of dye-sensitized solar cells based on magnesium-doped zinc oxide nanorods

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of growth temperature variation on the morphology, optical properties, and performance of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) based on Mg-doped ZnO nanorods. The nanorods were synthesized using a seed-mediated hydrothermal method on FTO substrates with 4% Mg concentration and growth temperatures ranging from 70°C and 90°C. Material characterization was conducted using UV-Vis spectroscopy, XRD, FESEM, and EDX. The results indicate that growth temperature significantly influences the structure and distribution of ZnO nanorods, affecting dye absorption and electron transport. Optimal temperature conditions produce more uniform morphology and enhance DSSC performance. Therefore, growth temperature is a key parameter in optimizing ZnO:Mg materials for solar cell applications.