ES2352407A1 - Decontaminating energetic coating. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

Coating, both energetic and decontaminating, of the electrochemical photovoltaic type, usable as a translucent photovoltaic cell, essentially characterized by being constituted by a first wide-band semiconductor nanocrystalline layer (1), preferably made of TiO2, deposited on a generating unit through a transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) of the type made of chemical compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO. The generating unit consists of a basic set of three elements: an electrode (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), an electrolyte (7) and a translucent counter-electrode (8, 9 and 10). (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

Decontaminating energy coating.

Technical field

The object of the present invention, as expressed in the statement of this specification, refers to a decontaminating energy coating, of the photovoltaic type electrochemical, usable as a translucent photovoltaic cell or as a coating of architectural and / or ornamental elements opaque, for the cogeneration of alternative electrical energy and for The purification of the environment.

Background of the invention

The conversion of light energy into Electric has its background in semiconductors; when these began to be manufactured, it was observed that if they were exposed to the light, a small electric current was generated.

The generation of electrical energy in a cell Photovoltaic is produced, in short, as follows: A energy light photon similar to that which unites electrons to nucleus of an atom may be able, when absorbed, to separate to the electron of the nucleus, to which it is attached, sufficient distance so that this electron can wander through the crystalline network by an area of space between atoms in one direction random The place occupied by the electron, being empty represents a positive charge, which also moves randomly over the network. Both charges are directed from the semiconductor surface to less illuminated areas, where the mutual attraction can recombine them, keeping the system in General in the form of balance. The materials where this is given phenomenon are called intrinsic semiconductors and the example Classic is Silicon (Yes). For there to be an electric current an electric field is needed that attracts the generated charges by the light and force it to go in opposite directions. This it is achieved by joining a semiconductor with excess electrons e- in its network (this semiconductor is called extrinsic and is doped with impurity atoms with 5 electrons in their valence band, of so that when joining the Si semiconductor network in this case, with 4 links, a decompensated electron would be easy to separate from the links and make it move through the glass) with another semiconductor with electron deficits or excess holes h + (a This semiconductor is called extrinsic as well and is doped with atoms as impurities with 3 electrons in their valence band, of so that when joining the Si semiconductor network, with 4 links, there would be a decompensated gap that is easy to separate from the links and make it move through the glass). In the union of these semiconductors n (for the doped with electrons) and p (for the doped with gaps) an electrostatic attraction arises between charges in the opposite direction that will direct the charges towards that region until the forces are compensated and stabilized with those of the network remaining in the volume of the material. In this way, in the union, it forms an electrostatic electric field zone, which will attract towards each other the charges in the opposite direction and will repel those of the same sense. Those photons from the light source with adequate energy, and that affect the surface p, will start electrons that will cross the area of electrical potential and not They can come back. At that time layer n acquires an overpotential on p. If electrical conductors are connected to both layers and these feed a power consuming electrical device, it It will start a continuous electric current.

While these materials are those used normally for the transformation of light energy into electrical, present the disadvantage that the processing cost to obtain pure silicon it is very high and even pollutant. There is another process of separation of cargo carriers in a specific type of solar cell, where it occurs by dissemination of these from the areas of greatest concentration of carriers with the lowest concentration, following a gradient of electric potential. This principle is used in cells third generation photovoltaic, which are cheaper and I clean the manufacturing method.

In the early 90s, Michael Grätzel invented a new type of photovoltaic cell that, unlike those based on semiconductor PN junctions, the new one is based on electrochemical reactions. What the cell does "Grätzel", named in honor of its creator, is to simulate partially the process of photosynthesis, using it some organic dye or pigment ("chromophore"), either natural type (such as chlorophyll juice or blackberry dye) or either artificial type, as would be, for example, a metal complex of transition.

The cell basically consists of that, on a glass substrate covered with a conductive layer, a semiconductor which, in turn coated with a dye layer organic (or chromophore) mentioned above and helped by an electrolyte suitable, is intended to absorb light photons to generate electron-hole pairs and thus produce energy electric

In the current state of the art, the cells Grätzel photoelectrochemicals are regenerative, of the interface type semiconductor-electrolyte oxide. It is understood by regenerating cell, an electrochemical device in which electrode reactions are reversible and the chemical reactant species.

Patent WO 91/16719 of a cell is known regenerative photoelectrochemistry, which includes an electrode of crystal coated with a conductive layer, transparent to light. This electrode also has a layer of titanium dioxide TiO_ {2} which is made in the form of a nanostructure porous with structure formed by colloidal particles "fries" ("anatase") and coated with one layer monomolecular chromophores. This device includes a second glass with a conductive transparent layer, which is coated, to in turn, with a thin layer of transparent Platinum (Pt) that acts as catalyst, to form the counter electrode of the cell. Both of them crystals are packaged and sealed tightly, so that between both remain a space that in turn is filled with an electrolyte, which acts as a "redox" agent, as well as those of electron exchanger and hole conveyor. These reference cells are known by the name of solar cells sensitized with dyes, or simply by its acronym in English DSSC (Dye Sensitized Solar Cell).

Given the low manufacturing costs of these photovoltaic cells, numerous studies of viability with the aim of introducing them into the market.

However, there are a number of deficiencies that characterize this type of cells and that have limited their massive introduction; Currently, many jobs are carried out To solve these inconveniences.

One of the disadvantages of these devices current consists of the low consistency of the layer TiO2 active and in the limited adhesion presented by said layer with respect to the surface of the substrate on which it deposit

Another drawback is the size limitation presented by these devices when it is intended to expand the field application thereof not only to solar panels, but also to pieces, construction, structural and / or ornamental elements of big size.

Another drawback, which concerns the sensitized cells, is that the ultraviolet component of light solar can penetrate the active layer of TiO2 through the face exposed to the light of the electrode and the first layer transparent conductive; this can cause a problem that is the direct excitation of the valence band electrons of the TiO2 semiconductor, then generating gaps (h +) very oxidizers, which influence the degradation of the compounds organic (like dyes) and very sharply in the electrolyte photodegradation, as demonstrated in numerous studies; attached to this, the generation of gaps and excitation direct semiconductor electronics, as it is known, favors the undesirable phenomenon of recombination. The presence of electrons in the semiconductor conduction band by direct excitation of the valence band, can turn off the sensitizer, inhibiting the act of electronic transfer, with the consequent conversion of the energy of the photons absorbed in the dye, and the consequent electronic transfer to the conduction band of the semiconductor, in a photonic act; this phenomenon favors then Cellular heating and reduces device efficiency.

It would also be advisable to take advantage of the intrinsic conversion capacity (which has the semiconductor) of convert UV radiation of light into energy, which in the Current cells are usually wasted; this would be possible if a device design other than the current ones is used, such as described later in this report,

Another drawback is that the surface intricate of colloidal TiO2, as described in cells current, has negative aspects, as is its consistency in the time due to weak links between particles colloidal, which can disable them for future reconstruction and replacement of constituent elements (such as they are the dyes and the electrolyte) by means of methods that guarantee his prolonged employment over time; such is the case proposed in the WO 2006/122114 A2 patent of "Solar Cell Sensitized with Rechargeable dyes. "With the regeneration mechanism proposed in said patent, the nanostructured layer suffers a rinse or wash that is eroding and can wear it with the time to disable it.

It is also worth mentioning the disadvantage that when the cells are outdoors, they should have some surfaces exposed to the outside environment that are kept clean of dirt and external organic elements that could impede the passage of the light into these cells. This would require a constant and periodic cleaning of these surfaces; of what Otherwise we would limit your photovoltaic performance. A surface that lacks self-cleaning properties, or that is not cleaned expressly with certain periodicity, it can be quickly disabled in its photovoltaic function, especially if it is horizontal surfaces such as roofs or the like, on the that dirt settles by gravity itself.

In addition, there is the disadvantage that Current cells are usually semi-transparent or translucent, and therefore, they do not present adequate efficiency for their installation on a matt opaque surface, such as a wall, tiles, posts, etc., since each photon of light that crosses the cell, ends up being absorbed by said matt surface, Wasting his energy. In the proposed invention this phenomenon it is removed by depositing a shiny layer on the substrate metallic that reflects the light, passing the photons again reflected through the photoactive layers.

Finally, photoelectrochemical cells currently lack decontaminating, bactericidal and / or properties purifiers of the environment in which they are found, because the encapsulated semiconductor and not exposed to the outside environment.

Description of the invention

In order to overcome these inconveniences, it He has designed the innovative energy decontamination coating, object of this technical report.

Generally speaking, the present invention will be refers to a novel type of photoelectrochemical cell, realizable both in small and medium formats, and configurable, or as a transparent solar panel, or as a coating for parts and / or other opaque structural or ornamental elements of a building, such as tiles, tiles or similar.

Both the panels and the coverings are capable of performing four functions: a first generating function of electric current with adequate efficiency, a second function of self-protection from ultraviolet light while filter of it, a third function of behaving as decontaminant (and / or bactericidal) of the environment and, finally, a fourth function of presenting self-cleaning properties of the surface exposed to light.

With respect to the latter property, the construction elements, such as window panes, tiles and tiles for walls and pavements, tiles, bricks, blocks and others, if implemented as sensitized solar cells, question that is feasible and is raised as one of the objectives of this invention must have surfaces exposed to the environment exterior that are always kept clean of dirt and elements external organics that prevent the passage of light into the interior of the cell.

With respect to the foregoing, it should be noted that one of the priority objectives pursued with this invention is the integration, in a single device, of the photovoltaic generation functions with the properties of self-cleaning and decontaminants of the environment surrounding the construction elements on which said device is installed; on the other hand, the self-cleaning, decontaminating and bactericides of the device, must be run on the surface exterior exposed to the environment. For being the environment exterior an eroding and hostile environment for coatings that be implemented on exposed surfaces, it is necessary that the deposited functional semiconductor possess characteristics especially suitable to resist the inclemency of the outside, property that also presents the coating object of the present invention

The novel invention is made so that the different layers that make up the generating structure they have a strong anchoring of these to the surface of the substrate, indispensable reason to ensure a solid communication between layers, high adhesion and increased surface area of interface.

The novel coating is designed in such a way so that, on the one hand, the areas of electronic ionic conduction, while on the other hand, It has also been designed to unlock as much as possible the conduction of electrons through the semiconductor, decreasing in both cases the recombination process and therefore increasing The energy efficiency of the device.

The coating object of this report presents an active layer of TiO_ {2}, of a novel nature, with a high adhesion to the substrate surface and a high consistency, both properties corresponding to the requirements that are established for the constructive elements and / or architectural; It also has a greater exposure area than the which can be obtained with colloidal particles "fries", what which solves some of the problems by its own structure Limitations of this technology. With the new coating, there is an increase in efficiency per unit area, given the smaller dimensions that are achieved in a level realization molecular, compared to an embodiment from particles colloidal aggregates.

The new energy coating, as already He has commented, presents two different structuring options; the First, designed to be used as a transparent element, it is suitable for use both in photovoltaic cells independent, integrated in solar panels, as well as for your use as windows, doors and other windows related elements. This structuring option can be illuminated on both sides. The second structuring option, designed to be applied to opaque surfaces, it is suitable for implementation as monofacial coating of elements opaque constructive or architectural such as tiles, tiles or similar ones (that is, those used to cover walls, floors and / or ceilings). This second structuring option Monofacial, it is designed to be illuminated by a single face.

The first structuring option, designed to be used as a transparent element, it can be used in photovoltaic cell manufacturing to implement units Semitransparent structural solar panels. This configuration is also applicable as a substitute for window panes for all types of building; even the interior glass of a housing window or other type of premises, of be coated with the decontaminating and bactericidal layer (described below) and the transparent conductive layer (also described later), could be used as a purifying element of interior environment of said dwelling or premises and, especially, in hospitals, kindergartens, geriatrics centers and others collective and social centers, which would not be necessary enable additional indoor sources of radiation generation Germicidal UV

It is also known that DSSCs work very well and stably in low lighting conditions; such characteristic makes them ideal for indoor use. As stated in the previous paragraph, the ability to convert these cells in decontaminating, self-cleaning and bactericides adds a very attractive feature to be introduced as constituent components of windows and others interior items.

The second structuring option, designed To be applied to opaque surfaces, it allows cells energy and at the same time decontaminants, self-cleaning and bactericides (hereinafter referred to as FDAB), given the potential Possibilities they possess are incorporated into many aspects of the construction, joining a single integrated system called "Self-Sustainable Energy Construction System Decontaminant "(SACED), occupying the surfaces of spaces, both exterior and interior, that configure ceilings, walls, pavements of terraces, housing facades and / or buildings, warehouses, warehouses, schools, hospitals, sports centers and, in general, all types of construction architectural that uses units such as tiles, tiles, bricks, blocks, and / or any other element, structural or ornamental, likely to be reconverted or redesigned with the additional surface properties of the FDAB type.

The first configuration option of the novel Energy coating proposed to constitute FDAB cells, is that is, the transparent configuration is constituted by a first nanocrystalline layer (i.e. at the same time fine and transparent) broadband semiconductor, preferably made of TiO_ {2}, which has self-cleaning characteristics, environmental decontaminants and bactericides, which acts as ultraviolet radiation filter from sunlight or from any other external source while letting in the light visible, so that said ultraviolet radiation does not penetrate inside the generating unit and deteriorate the layers of chromophore or electrolyte explained below; the layer of TiO_2 is deposited on said generating unit through a transparent conductive intermediate layer of the ya type used in current techniques, based on compounds Chemicals such as FTO (Fluorine dopped Tin Oxide), ITO or AZO. Be denominated generating unit, with nominative character but not limiting, to a basic set of three elements: an electrode, a electrolyte and a transparent counter electrode. Electrode is composed of a crystal transparent to visible light, which is coated on its inner face with a transparent conductive layer of those known in the current art (such as FTO, ITO or AZO), a layer of transparent compact TiO2 which, according to the current state of the art, acts as a barrier or isolation between the electrolytic liquid and the conductive transparent layer, a layer TiO2 nanophotovoltaic with irregular type structure "anatase", and finally, a chromophore monolayer that deposited on the extensive and irregular surface of the layer TiO2 nanophotovoltaic. The counter electrode is composed, at its instead, from a transparent glass to visible light, which is coated on the inner face with a transparent conductive layer of which they are known in the market (such as FTO, ITO or AZO) and with a layer transparent of a catalyst, among which the Platinum Pt, Graphite, Fluffy Ti, Gold, Ni or any other suitable catalyst. Externally this glass is also coated of a conductive transparent layer, which in turn is coated with a broadband semiconductor nanocrystalline layer, preferably made of TiO2, which has characteristics self-cleaning, environmental decontaminants and bactericides, while also acting as a filter for the ultraviolet component from sunlight or any other external source, to that this component does not penetrate inside the unit generator The novel cell, as in the classic variant, is seals tightly joining the two crystals and injects it, in the space between electrode and counter electrode, a liquid suitable electrolytic that performs "redox" functions between electrode and counter electrode. The ends of the layers transparent conductors of the electrode and counter electrode, it join through an external electrical work circuit to power some electrical or electronic component through the circulation of the electrons (e-) generated.

In the novel energy coating object of this report is proposed, as an innovative element with respect to state of the art, the application of an intermediate layer transparent conductor deposited on the outer face of the glass of the electrode, composed of FTO, ITO or AZO and, in turn on this, a transparent nanocrystalline semiconductor layer based on TiO_ {2}, which performs the already described element functions UV radiation filter, in addition to being self-cleaning, decontaminant and bactericidal, when its valence band is excited by the energy waves of the UV component of light and release, in the act, very oxidizing (h +) holes that are capable of decomposing volatile organic elements in contact with the surface up to its simplest components, such as CO2, H2O and salts, as well as very strong and superoxid hydroxyl radicals, when reacting With the water of the atmosphere. These last free radicals too break down organic elements with high effectiveness, such that TiO_ {2} is currently considered one of the most effective and stable decontaminants that exist in the nature, successfully employed in the decontamination of waters

One of the most important mechanisms of the innovation is the possibility of giving utility to the electrons that released in the act of direct excitation of the band of Valencia semiconductor towards your conduction band at the moment you activates the described decontamination mechanism, while released holes (h +) are used in the oxidation of organic compounds In that instant, the electrons are decompensated in the structure, the mechanism of the recombination and these decompensated electrons can be evacuated freely from the semiconductor conduction band through from the transparent conductive intermediate layer to a circuit polarized and, from this, to the external electrical work circuit, passing through a low impedance semiconductor diode before, which in turn prevents the leakage of electrons (e-) that circulate through said external electrical circuit. This mechanism is maximum importance in the novel invention, because in the act the energy efficiency of the cell, giving it a generating utility of energy to the UV component of light. On the other hand, you have to highlight the UV filter function assigned to the design presented, whatever the functions that the mechanism is being carried out, as far as it is dedicated in the act to a decontaminating function or not, since at the moment when there is a reaction of the gaps (h +) generated with elements external to the medium, the electrons in the conduction band are eventually forced by electrostatic mechanisms to a recombination, which prevents the passage of the UV component of the light inside the cell, which, as already explained, it is not favorable for the stability of the work of the cell and the durability of it.

It is also proposed, as innovation, to add the transparent conductive layer on the outer face of the glass of the counter electrode, composed of FTO, ITO or AZO, and on this, a layer TiO2 based broadband semiconductor nanocrystalline; in this way, electrons are freely evacuated from the band conduction of the semiconductor, through the conductive layer transparent to a second polarized circuit, and from this, to external electrical circuit, passing before through a second low impedance semiconductor diode, which in turn prevents leakage of electrons circulating in the external electrical circuit of job.

In this way, according to the configuration of the novel energy coating in semi-transparent cell mode described, said cell plays a role of UV filter from both sides of it, avoiding on the electrode side that these reach the TiO 2 semiconductor layer compact transparent and to the nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 "anatase" and directly excite the electrons of the Valencia band, then generating gaps (h +) that can affect to the chromophore monolayer and the electrolytic liquid by reasons explained above. For the same reason, the outer face of the Counter electrode also prevents the passage of UV radiation.

The two outer layers of semiconductor broadband, composed of TiO_2, are nanocrystalline, that is, They are both thin and transparent, to allow free passage of visible light; these layers absorb the component ultraviolet light, thereby guaranteeing the functions assigned filter, decontaminant, self-cleaning and bactericidal, described above.

The transparent compact TiO_2 layer of the electrode, performs the function of barrier layer that serves, by a side, to offer a solid contact between the conductive layer transparent and the nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 anatase, thereby facilitating electronic transfer and, on the other, to prevent short circuits between the electrolyte liquid that bathes the TiO2 anatase layer and the transparent conductive layer, inhibiting with this act the phenomenon of recombination.

The second configuration option of the novel Energy coating proposed to constitute FDAB cells, is that is, the monofacial configuration applicable to opaque surfaces, It consists of a first transparent semiconductor layer broadband, preferably made of TiO2, which has self-cleaning, decontaminating and environmental characteristics bactericides, which acts as a filter for ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or any other source external to the time that allows visible light to pass, so that ultraviolet radiation does not penetrate inside the unit Generate and deteriorate the chromophore or electrolyte. The layer of TiO_2 is deposited on said generating unit through a transparent conductive intermediate layer of the ya type used in current techniques, based on compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO. It is understood by generating unit, with nominative but not limiting character, to a basic set of three Elements: an electrode, an electrolyte and a counter electrode. This Counter electrode is opaque and reflective so that visible radiation incident that would pass by inside the cell and it would miss, be reflected and return to the interior of the cell to be reused. The electrode is composed of a glass transparent to visible light, which is covered by its inner face with a transparent conductive layer made with materials that are already known in the current art (such such as FTO, ITO or AZO), a layer of transparent compact TiO2 which, according to the current state of the art, acts as a barrier or insulation between the electrolytic liquid and the transparent layer conductive, a nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 with structure irregular type "anatase", and finally, a monolayer of chromophore that is deposited on the extensive and irregular surface of the nanophotovoltaic layer; the electrode cantra is in turn composed, on the one hand, the opaque body of the constructive element itself, is say tile, tile or similar, on whose surface is applied a coating in the form of a spongy titanium metal layer, that would perform at the same time the functions of conductive layer and of catalyst. This layer of Ti can be deposited directly on the rough and rough surface of ceramic or other material, or on this surface previously polished and / or enameled, or with any degree of roughness The opaque cell, as in the translucent variant explained above, it is sealed tightly joining the glass with the body of the tile and a suitable electrolyte is injected that executes redox functions between electrodes; the ends of the transparent conductive layer of the electrode and the metallic layer of Ti spongy of the counter electrode, join through a circuit External electrical work.

The decompensated electrons that are produced in the first nanocrystalline broadband layer when the gaps (h +) released are used in the oxidation of organic compounds environmental pollutants, can be freely evacuated from the semiconductor conduction band through the intermediate layer transparent conductor to a polarized circuit and, from this, to the external electrical work circuit, passing before through a low impedance semiconductor diode, which in turn prevents the leakage of electrons (e-) circulating through said circuit external electrical

In this variant of the novel energy coating for opaque surfaces, where the conductive and catalytic metal layer of Ti is deposited directly on a glazed, polished or rough but glossy surface, this Ti layer, being metallic, acts as a mirror in the which reflects the visible light that crosses the previous photoactive layers of the cell and has not been absorbed by them. After reflection, this light is processed again by the photoactive layers and can be reused in the photovoltaic conversion process, which unquestionably increases the efficiency of the cell. The conductive and catalytic metal layer of Ti ensures, on the other hand, an electronic conduction better than the transparent conductive layers existing in the current state of the art (such as those mentioned FTO, ITO or AZO) by having a lower resistance, which improves the efficiency of the photovoltaic cell by lowering the index of ohmic or resistive losses and / or the rate of recombination of electron pairs
hole.

The outer layer of broadband semiconductor composed of TiO_ {2} is, at the same time, of fine structure and transparent, to allow the free passage of visible light; is layer absorbs the ultraviolet component of light, ensuring with it assigned filter functions, decontaminant, of self-cleaning and bactericide, described above.

Optionally, in this variant of the novel Energy coating for opaque surfaces, the metallic layer conductive and spongy Ti catalyst can be coated, at your instead, by another transparent Pt catalyst layer (not shown in the drawings), which could increase the catalytic properties of the set and thereby facilitate the electronic transfer of electrolyte regeneration

Optionally also, any element opaque architectural of the aforementioned, such as tiles, bricks, blocks or others, of which they can be used as monofacial FDAB cells, can also be structured as bifacial FDAB cells, that is, they can carry the novel energy coating on both sides; this possibility doubles the power generation capacity of these elements architectural; an example of such a design could be used by example in bricks for gates and / or walls that receive lighting on both sides.

Description of the drawings

In order to illustrate how much so far we have exposed, is accompanied by the present specification and forming an integral part of it, of a set of drawings in those that have been represented in a simplified and schematic way, two examples of practical realization only explanatory but not limiting, of the characteristics of the novel invention.

Figure 1 shows a diagram, in section transversal, of the new energy coating in configuration transparent.

Figure 2 shows a scheme, also in cross section of the new energy coating in opaque reflective configuration.

Description of a practical example

The two examples are described below. Practices for carrying out the invention; the first (figure 1), designed to be used as a transparent element independent, it is suitable for use both in cells independent photovoltaic incorporated to solar panels as for its use as windows, doors and other windows related elements. This structuring option can be illuminated on both sides. The second structuring option (figure 2), Designed to be applied to opaque surfaces, it is suitable for implementation as monofacial coating of elements constructive or architectural, also opaque, such as tiles, tiles or similar (that is, those used to cover walls, floors and / or ceilings); this second structuring option Monofacial, it is designed to be illuminated by a single face.

The first configuration option of the novel Energy coating proposed to constitute FDAB cells, is that is, the transparent configuration is constituted by a first nanocrystalline layer (i.e. at the same time fine and transparent) broadband semiconductor (1) made of TiO_ {2}, which has self-cleaning characteristics, environmental decontaminants and bactericides, which acts as ultraviolet radiation filter (19) from sunlight or from any other external source while letting the light through visible (20), so that said ultraviolet radiation (19) does not penetrate inside the generating unit and deteriorate the layers of chromophore (6) or electrolyte (7) explained below. The TiO 2 layer (1) is deposited on said generating unit at through a transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) of the type of those already used in current techniques, based on chemical compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO. It is understood by generating unit a basic set of three elements: an electrode (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), an electrolyte (7) and a counter electrode (8, 9 and 10) transparent. The electrode is composed of a crystal (2) transparent to visible light (20), which is covered by its inner face with a transparent conductive layer (3) of which know in the current art (such as FTO, ITO or AZO), a layer of transparent compact TiO_2 (4) which, according to the state of the current technique, acts as a barrier or isolation between the liquid electrolytic (7) and the conductive transparent layer (3), a layer TiO2 nanophotovoltaic (5) with irregular type structure "anatase", and finally, a chromophore monolayer (6) that deposited on the extensive and irregular surface of the layer nanophotovoltaic (5) of TiO2. The counter electrode is composed, to in turn, from a crystal (10) transparent to visible light (20), the which is covered by the inner face with a conductive layer transparent (9) of those known in the market (such as FTO, ITO or AZO) and with a transparent layer of a catalyst (8) like the platinum Pt. Externally this crystal is also coated with a conductive transparent layer (17), which in turn is coated of a nanocrystalline layer of broadband semiconductor (11) made of TiO_ {2}, which has self-cleaning characteristics, environmental decontaminants and bactericides, while It also acts as a filter for the ultraviolet component (19) from sunlight or any other external source, to that this component does not penetrate inside the unit generator The novel cell is sealed tightly joining the two crystals (2 and 10) and injected into the space included between electrode and counter electrode, a suitable electrolytic liquid (7) that performs "redox" functions between said electrode and counter electrode. The ends of the conductive layers transparent (3 and 9) of the electrode and counter electrode, join through an external electrical work circuit (16) to power any electrical or electronic component through the circulation of the electrons (e-) generated.

In the novel energy coating object of this report is proposed, as an innovative element with respect to state of the art, the application of an intermediate layer transparent conductor (18) deposited on the outer face of the crystal (2), composed of FTO, ITO or AZO and, in turn on this, a transparent semiconductor nanocrystalline layer (1) based on TiO_ {2}, which performs the already described element functions UV radiation filter (19), in addition to being self-cleaning, decontaminant and bactericidal, when its valence band is excited by the energy waves of the UV component (19) of the light and release, in the act, very oxidizing (h +) holes that are capable of decompose volatile organic elements in contact with the surface to its simplest components, such as CO2; H2O and salts, as well as very strong hydroxyl radicals and superoxides, reacting with water from the atmosphere. These last free radicals also break down the organic elements with high effectiveness, such that TiO2 is considered in today as one of the most effective decontaminants and stable that exist in nature.

In the novel coating object of this memory, utility is given to electrons that are released instantly Direct excitation of the semiconductor valence band towards your driving band at the moment the decontamination mechanism described, while the gaps released (h +) are used in the oxidation of the compounds Organic environmental pollutants. In that instant, when electrons are decompensated in the structure, the recombination mechanism and these electrons are evacuated freely from the semiconductor conduction band through from the transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) to a circuit polarized (15) and, from this, to the external electrical circuit of work (16), passing before through a semiconductor diode of low impedance (14), which in turn prevents the leakage of electrons (e-) circulating in the external electrical circuit (16); East mechanism is of utmost importance in the novel invention, because in the act increases the energy efficiency of the cell, by giving it a power generating utility to the UV component (19) of the light. On the other hand, the filter function of the UV rays (19) that are assigned to the design presented, whatever of the functions that the mechanism is performing, in terms of is dedicated to a decontaminating function or not, since in the moment when there is no reaction of the gaps (h +) generated with external elements of the medium, electrons in the band of driving are eventually forced by electrostatic mechanisms to a recombination, which prevents the passage of the component UV (19) of the light inside the cell, which, as already explained, it is not favorable for the job stability of the cell and its durability.

It's also innovation, adding the layer transparent conductor (17) on the outer face of the glass (10), composed of FTO, ITO or AZO, and on this, a nanocrystalline layer of broadband semiconductor (11) based on TiO2. Of this mode, electrons are freely evacuated from the band of semiconductor conduction, through the conductive layer transparent (17) to a second polarized circuit (12), and from this, to the external electrical circuit (16), passing before through a second low impedance semiconductor diode (13), which in turn prevents the leakage of electrons circulating in the electrical circuit external work (16).

In this way, according to the configuration of the novel energy coating in semi-transparent cell mode described, said cell plays a role of UV filter (19) from both sides of it, avoiding on the electrode side that these reach the TiO_ {2} semiconductor layer compact transparent (4) and to the nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 "anatase" (5) and directly excite the electrons of the valencia band, generating then gaps (h +) that can affect the chromophore monolayer (6) and the electrolytic liquid (7) for the reasons explained above; for the same reason, the face outside of the counter electrode also prevents radiation from passing UV (19).

The two outer layers of semiconductor Broadband (1 and 11), composed of TiO2, are nanocrystalline, that is, they are both thin and transparent in structure, to allow the free passage of visible light. These layers are what absorb the ultraviolet component (19) of the light, guaranteeing with it assigned filter functions, decontaminant, of self-cleaning and bactericide, described above.

The transparent compact TiO_2 layer (4) of the electrode, it performs the function of barrier layer that serves, by a side, to offer a solid contact between the conductive layer transparent (3) and the nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 anatase (5), thereby facilitating electronic transfer and, by another, to prevent short circuits between the electrolyte liquid (7) which bathes the TiO2 anatase layer (5) and the conductive layer transparent (3), inhibiting with this act the phenomenon of recombination

The second configuration option of the novel Energy coating proposed to constitute FDAB cells, is that is, the monofacial configuration applicable to opaque surfaces, It consists of a first transparent semiconductor layer broadband (1) made of TiO_ {2}, which has characteristics self-cleaning, environmental decontaminants and bactericides, which acts as a filter for ultraviolet radiation (19) from from sunlight or any other external source while lets in visible light (20), in order that said radiation ultraviolet (19) does not penetrate inside the generating unit and deteriorate the chromophore (6) or electrolyte (7). The layer of TiO 2 (1) is deposited on said generating unit through a transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) of the type of already used in current techniques, based on compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO. The generating unit is composed of a basic set of three elements: an electrode (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), an electrolyte (7) and a counter electrode (21 and 22). This Counter electrode is opaque and reflective, so that the radiation visible incident that would pass by inside the cell and would be wasted, be reflected (23) and return inwards of the cell to be reused. The electrode is composed of a crystal (2) transparent to visible light (20), which is coated on its inner face with a transparent conductive layer (3) made with materials that are already known in the current technique (such as FTO, ITO or AZO), a layer of TiO2 transparent compact (4) which, according to the state of the art, acts as a barrier or insulation between the electrolytic liquid (7) and the conductive transparent layer (3), a nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO_ {2} (5) with irregular "anatase" structure, and by last, a monolayer of chromophore (6) that is deposited on the extensive and irregular surface of the nanophotovoltaic layer (5). He counter electrode is in turn composed, on the one hand, of the opaque body of the construction element itself (22), that is, tile, tile or similar, on whose surface the coating is applied energy and, on the other hand, a metallic layer (21) of Titanium fluffy, which would execute the layer functions at the same time conductive and catalyst. This layer of Ti can be deposited directly on the rough and rough surface of ceramic or other material, or on this previously polished and / or enameled surface, or with any degree of roughness. The opaque cell, as in the transparent variant explained above, it is sealed tightly joining the glass (2) with the tile body (22) and injecting it a suitable electrolyte (7) that executes the redox functions between The electrodes The ends of the transparent conductive layer (3) of the electrode and the metallic layer of spongy Ti (21) of the counter electrode, join through an external electrical circuit working (16). The decompensated electrons that are produced in the first broadband nanocrystalline layer (1) when the gaps (h +) released are used in the oxidation of the compounds Organic environmental pollutants are freely evacuated from the semiconductor conduction band through the layer transparent conductive intermediate (18) towards a polarized circuit (15) and, from this, to the external electrical work circuit (16), passing through a low impedance semiconductor diode (14), which in turn prevents the leakage of the electrons (e-) that circulate by said external electrical circuit (16).

In this variant of the new coating energy for opaque surfaces, where the metal layer conductive and catalyst of Ti (21) is deposited directly on an enameled, polished or rough (but shiny) surface, this Ti layer (21), being metallic, acts as a mirror in which reflects the visible light (23) that crosses the previous layers Photoactive cells and has not been absorbed by them. After of the reflection, this light (23) is processed again by the layers Photoactive and can be reused in the conversion process photovoltaic, which unquestionably increases the efficiency of the cell. The conductive and catalytic metal layer of Ti (21) ensures, on the other hand, electronic conduction better than transparent conductive layers existing in the current state of the technique (such as those mentioned FTO, ITO or AZO) by having a lower resistance, which improves cell efficiency photovoltaic by lowering the index of ohmic or resistive losses and / or peer recombination rate hollow electron.

The outer layer of broadband semiconductor (1) composed of TiO_ {2} is, at the same time, of fine structure and transparent, to allow the free passage of visible light; is layer absorbs the ultraviolet component (20) of the light, guaranteeing with it the assigned functions of filter, decontaminant, of self-cleaning and bactericide, described above.

Optionally, in this variant of the novel Energy coating for opaque surfaces, the metallic layer conductive and spongy Ti catalyst (21) can be coated, in turn, for another transparent Pt catalyst layer (no represented in the drawings), which increases the properties catalytic of the set and with it facilitates the transfer Electrolyte regeneration electronics.

Optionally also, any element opaque architectural (22) of the aforementioned, such as tiles, bricks, blocks or others, of which they can be used as monofacial FDAB cells, can be structured also as bifacial FDAB cells, that is, they can carry the novel energy coating on both sides; This possibility doubles the power generation capacity of these elements Architectural An example of such a design could be used by example in bricks for gates and / or walls that receive lighting on both sides.

They will be independent of the purpose of this invention the materials used in the manufacture of different elements that compose it, as well as the forms, dimensions and accessories that may present, and may be replaced by other technically equivalent ones, provided that no affect the essentiality of it or depart from the scope defined in the claims section.

Established the expressed concept, it is written to then the note of claims, thus synthesizing the news that you want to claim.

Claims (6)

1. Coating, both energetic and decontaminating, of the electrochemical photovoltaic type, usable as a translucent photovoltaic cell, essentially characterized by being a first nanocrystalline layer of broadband semiconductor (1), preferably made of TiO2, deposited on a generating unit through a transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) of the type made of chemical compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO. The generating unit is composed of a basic set of three elements: an electrode (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), an electrolyte (7) and a translucent counter electrode (8, 9 and 10). The electrode is composed of a crystal (2) transparent to visible light (20), which is coated on its inner face with a transparent conductive layer (3) based on compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO, a layer of Transparent compact TiO2 (4), a nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 (5) with an irregular "anatase" structure, and finally, a chromophore monolayer (6) that is deposited on the surface of the layer nanophotovoltaic (5) of TiO2. The counter electrode is composed, in turn, of a crystal (10) transparent to visible light (20), which is coated on the inside with a transparent conductive layer (9) of those known in the market (such as FTO, ITO or AZO) and with a transparent layer of a catalyst (8), such as Pt platinum, graphite, spongy Ti, Gold, Ni or any other suitable catalyst. Externally, this crystal is also coated with a transparent conductive layer (17), which in turn is coated with a nanocrystalline layer of broadband semiconductor (11), preferably made of TiO2; The cell is hermetically sealed by joining the two crystals (2 and 10) and a suitable electrolytic liquid (7) is injected into the space between electrode and counter electrode. The ends of the transparent conductive layers (3 and 9) of the electrode and the counter electrode are joined through an external electrical work circuit (16). The decompensated electrons generated in the first transparent nanocrystalline layer (1) of the cell, are evacuated to a polarized circuit (15) and, from this, to the external electrical work circuit (16), passing through a semiconductor diode of low impedance (14). For the same purpose, a second polarized circuit (12) and a second low impedance semiconductor diode (13) are added to the transparent nanocrystalline layer (11) of the opposite face of the cell. 2. Decontaminating energy coating, usable as a coating of opaque architectural and / or ornamental elements, essentially characterized by being a first nanocrystalline layer of broadband semiconductor (1), preferably made of TiO2, deposited on a generating unit through a transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) of the type made of chemical compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO. The generating unit consists of a basic set of three elements: an electrode (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), an electrolyte (7) and an opaque and reflective counter electrode (21 and 22). The electrode is composed of a crystal (2) transparent to visible light (20), which is coated on its inner face with a transparent conductive layer (3) based on compounds such as FTO, ITO or AZO, a layer of Transparent compact TiO2 (4), a nanophotovoltaic layer of TiO2 (5) with an irregular "anatase" structure, and finally, a chromophore monolayer (6) that is deposited on the surface of the layer nanophotovoltaic (5) of TiO2. The opaque and reflective counter electrode (21 and 22) is composed on the one hand of the opaque body of the construction element (22) and, on the other hand, of a metallic layer (21) of spongy titanium; The opaque cell is hermetically sealed by joining the glass (2) with the body of the construction element (22) and a suitable electrolyte (7) is injected into it; the ends of the transparent conductive layer (3) of the electrode and the metallic spongy Ti layer (21) of the counter electrode, are joined through an external electrical working circuit (16); The decompensated electrons are evacuated through the transparent conductive intermediate layer (18) to a polarized circuit (15) and, from this, to the external electrical work circuit (16), passing first through a semiconductor diode of low impedance ( 14). 3. Energetic and decontaminating coating, according to claim two, characterized in that the metallic conductive and spongy Ti catalyst layer (21) can be coated, in turn, by another transparent Pt catalyst layer. 4. Decontaminating energy coating, according to second and third claims, characterized in that, optionally, to any opaque architectural element (22) the coatings described on the other side are deposited, making the photovoltaic cell bifacial. 5. Energy coating and decontaminant, according to previous claims, wherein the coating is used in building interiors, which saves energy consumption of housing, because it reuses part of the energy consumed in interior lighting. Also, indoors This coating cleanses and decontaminates the environment. 6. Energy and decontaminant coating according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in parallel to the fulfillment of the functions as a decontaminant, bactericidal and self-cleaning the semiconductor, by absorbing the ultraviolet component of light, it releases in the act excitons (electron-hollow pairs ). The released electrons, during the performance of these functions, are decompensated and free of the mutual electric field that attract them to the generated holes, at which time they are used, by evacuating them through circuits 12 and 15, to increase the cellular generating efficiency , by joining the current of the work circuit 16.