JP2009037964A - Dye-sensitized solar cell module and its manufacturing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a dye-sensitized solar cell module capable of surely connecting in series a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells arranged on the dye-sensitized solar cell module, and its manufacturing method. <P>SOLUTION: In the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 having a plurality of conductive members 17 for connecting in series the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 arranged between a first substrate 11 and a second substrate 13 with light transparency, a plurality of conductive member storage sections 23 arranged between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 13 and storing the plurality of conductive members 17, and a spacer 12 for separating the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15, a conductive paste leading section 26 penetrating the second substrate 13 and leading a conductive paste of the conductive section 17 to respective conductive member storage sections 23 is arranged on the second substrate 13 at a section opposite to respective conductive member storage sections 23. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a dye-sensitized solar cell module and a method for manufacturing the same, and more particularly to a dye-sensitized solar cell module in which a plurality of planarly arranged dye-sensitized solar cells are connected in series and a method for manufacturing the same.

  In recent years, global warming caused by carbon dioxide has become a global problem. As one means for improving such a problem, development of a solar cell module using sunlight which is an environmentally friendly and clean energy source is being promoted.

  The solar cell module is configured to have a plurality of solar cells. As a solar cell, a single crystal silicon solar cell, a polycrystalline silicon solar cell, an amorphous silicon solar cell and the like have already been put into practical use. However, a dye is used as a solar cell with higher photoelectric conversion efficiency and lower cost. Sensitized solar cells are attracting attention.

  FIG. 1 is a sectional view of a typical structure of a conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 includes a first substrate 201 having light transmissivity, a spacer 202, a second substrate 203, a first substrate 201, and a first substrate 201. A plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 205, a plurality of conductive members 207, a sealing member 208, and a cover glass 209 which are arranged in a plane between the two substrates 203.

  The first substrate 201 is fixed to the lower end portion of the spacer 202. The first substrate 201 is a substrate for irradiating a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 205 with sunlight by transmitting sunlight.

  The spacer 202 has a plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 211 and a plurality of conductive member housing portions 212. The plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 211 are formed so as to penetrate the spacer 202. The electrolyte solution filling unit 211 is a space for filling the electrolyte solution 219.

  The plurality of conductive member accommodating portions 212 are formed so as to penetrate through the spacers 202 located between the electrolyte filling portions 211. The conductive member accommodating portion 212 is for accommodating the conductive member 207. The spacer 202 configured as described above is for keeping a predetermined distance between the first substrate 201 and the second substrate 203 and separating the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 205. The thickness K of the spacer 202 in the portion disposed between the first electrode layer 215-1 and the catalyst layer 218 can be set to 10 μm to 100 μm, for example.

  The second substrate 203 is fixed to the upper end portion of the spacer 202 so as to face the first substrate 201. The second substrate 203 has a plurality of electrolytic solution introduction sections 210. The electrolyte solution introduction part 210 is formed so as to penetrate the second substrate 203 at a part facing each electrolyte solution filling part 211. The electrolytic solution introduction unit 210 is an introduction port for introducing the electrolytic solution 219 into the electrolytic solution filling unit 211.

  The dye-sensitized solar cell 205 includes a light-transmitting first electrode layer 215-1 or first electrode layer 215-2, a dye-supporting oxide semiconductor layer 216, and a second electrode layer 217-. The first or second electrode layer 217-2, the catalyst layer 218, and the electrolytic solution 219 are included.

  The first electrode layer 215-1 is provided on the surface 201A of the portion of the first substrate 201 located near the right end of the first substrate 201 shown in FIG. The first electrode layer 215-1 is opposed to the electrolyte solution filling portion 211 located at the right end of the spacer 202 shown in FIG. Part of the first electrode layer 215-1 is drawn to the outside of the spacer 202. The first electrode layer 215-1 is electrically connected to the second electrode layer 217-1 by a wiring (not shown).

  The first electrode layer 215-2 is one conductive member housing portion disposed so as to be adjacent to the electrolytic solution filling portion 211 from the surface 201A of the first substrate 201 at a portion facing the electrolytic solution filling portion 211. 212 is arranged so as to cover the surface 201 </ b> A of the first substrate 201 at a portion facing 212. The first electrode layer 215-2 is in contact with the lower end of the conductive member 207. The first electrode layer 215-2 is electrically connected to the second electrode layer 217-2 through the conductive member 207. As the first electrode layers 215-1 and 215-2, for example, ITO (indium tin oxide film), FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film), or the like can be used.

  The dye-carrying oxide semiconductor layer 216 is provided on portions of the first electrode layers 215-1 and 215-2 facing the electrolyte solution filling portion 211. The dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer 216 is obtained by supporting a dye on an oxide semiconductor.

  The second electrode layer 217-1 is provided on the surface 203A of the second substrate 203 at a portion located near the left end of the second substrate 203 shown in FIG. The second electrode layer 217-1 is opposed to the electrolyte solution filling portion 211 located at the left end of the spacer 202 shown in FIG. Part of the second electrode layer 217-1 is drawn to the outside of the spacer 202. The second electrode layer 217-1 is electrically connected to the first electrode layer 215-1 through wiring not shown.

  The second electrode layer 217-2 is one conductive member housing portion disposed so as to be adjacent to the electrolyte solution filling portion 211 from the surface 203 </ b> A of the second substrate 203 at a portion facing the electrolyte solution filling portion 211. 212 is disposed so as to cover the surface 203 </ b> A of the second substrate 203 at a portion facing the surface 212. The second electrode layer 217-2 is electrically connected to the conductive member 17 through the conductive catalyst layer 218. Thus, the second electrode layer 217-2 is electrically connected to the first electrode layer 215-2 via the catalyst layer 218 and the conductive member 207.

  The catalyst layer 218 has conductivity and is provided so as to cover the surfaces 217-1A and 217-2A of the second electrode layers 217-1 and 217-2. The catalyst layer 218 is for smoothly transmitting light energy between the second electrode layers 217-1 and 217-2 and the electrolytic solution 219. The electrolyte solution 219 is disposed so as to fill each of the plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 211.

  The conductive member 207 is provided in each of the plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 211. The lower end portion of the conductive member 207 is in contact with the first electrode layer 215-2. The upper end portion of the conductive member 207 is in contact with the catalyst layer 218 provided in another dye-sensitized solar cell 205 that is disposed adjacent to the conductive member 207. The conductive member 207 is a member for connecting a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 205 in series. The height L of the plurality of conductive members 207 is configured to be substantially equal to the thickness K of the spacer 202.

  The sealing member 208 is provided so as to cover the surface 203B of the second substrate 203. The sealing member 208 is a member for sealing the plurality of electrolyte solution introduction portions 210. As the sealing member 208, for example, a resin layer can be used. The cover glass 209 is for protecting the sealing member 208, and is provided so as to cover the surface 208A of the sealing member 208.

  The dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 configured as described above has a phenomenon in which, when sunlight transmitted through the first substrate 201 is irradiated to the dye, the dye absorbs visible light and is excited to emit electrons. This is a module that performs photoelectric conversion.

  2-14 is a figure which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. 2-14, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component as the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module 200. FIG.

  With reference to FIGS. 2-14, the manufacturing method of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 is demonstrated. First, in the step shown in FIG. 2, the first electrode layers 215-1 and 215-2 are formed by forming ITO on the surface 201A of the first substrate 201 by sputtering, and then patterning the ITO. To do.

  Next, in the step illustrated in FIG. 3, the dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer 216 is formed over the first electrode layers 215-1 and 215-2. Next, in the step shown in FIG. 4, ITO 231 is formed so as to cover the surface 203 </ b> A of the second substrate 203. Next, in the step shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of electrolyte solution introduction portions 210 are formed by drilling so as to penetrate the second substrate 203.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 6, the catalyst layer 218 is formed so as to cover the ITO 231 by sputtering. As the catalyst layer 218, for example, a Pt layer or a C layer can be used.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 7, the catalyst layer 218 and the ITO 231 are patterned to form the insertion portions 233 into which the second electrode layers 217-1 and 217-2 and a part of the spacer 202 are inserted. At this time, the insertion portion 233 is formed so as to expose the surface 203A of the second substrate 203. Next, in a step shown in FIG. 8, a resist film 235 having an opening 235A that exposes a portion of the catalyst layer 218 corresponding to the formation region of the conductive member 207 is formed.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 9, a plurality of conductive members 207 are formed by filling the openings 235A with a conductive paste using a printing method, and then drying and baking the conductive paste. At this time, the height L of the plurality of conductive members 207 is formed to be substantially equal to the thickness K of the spacer 202. The plurality of conductive members 207 may be formed by, for example, forming a metal film by sputtering or vapor deposition and then patterning the metal film.

  Next, in a step shown in FIG. 10, the resist film 235 shown in FIG. 9 is removed. Next, in the step shown in FIG. 11, the spacer 202 having a plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 211 and conductive member accommodating portions 212 is formed. As a material of the spacer 202, for example, a film-like thermosetting resin can be used.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 12, the spacer 202 is placed on the structure shown in FIG. 3, and the structure shown in FIG. 10 is placed on the spacer 202. Thereafter, while applying pressure to the first and second substrates 201 and 203, the spacer 202 is heated to cure the spacer 202, whereby the first and second substrates 201 and 203 and the spacer 202 are pressure-bonded.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 13, the electrolyte solution filling unit 211 is filled with the electrolyte solution 219 with the electrolyte solution 219 supplied from the dispenser 241 via the electrolyte solution introduction unit 210. Thereby, a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 205 are formed.

Next, in a process illustrated in FIG. 14, the sealing member 208 is formed so as to cover the surface 203 </ b> B of the second substrate 203, and then the cover glass 209 is fixed to the surface 208 </ b> A of the sealing member 208. Thereby, the dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 in which a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 205 are connected in series is manufactured (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2007-18862 A

  However, in the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module 200, since the plurality of conductive members 207 are formed using a printing method, a sputtering method, or the like, the height of the plurality of conductive members 207 varies. Thus, the problem shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 occurs.

  FIG.15 and FIG.16 is a figure for demonstrating the problem of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. 15 and 16, the same components as those of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in FIG. 15, when the height of the conductive member 207 disposed in the center of the dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 is lower than a predetermined height (when L <K), the height is low. Since the conductive member 207 and the first electrode layer 215-2 do not come into contact with each other, the gap between the first electrode layer 215-2 opposed to the conductive member 207 having a low height and the conductive member 207 having a low height is present. A continuity failure occurs at (J portion shown in FIG. 15).

  As shown in FIG. 16, when the height of the conductive members 207 disposed on the left and right of the dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 is higher than a predetermined height (when L> K), the spacer 202 And a gap between the first substrate 201 and the dye-sensitized solar cell 205 provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module 200 is connected in parallel. There was a problem that the electrolyte solution 219 leaked out of the solar cell module 200.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and a dye-sensitized solar that can reliably connect a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells provided in a dye-sensitized solar cell module in series. An object is to provide a battery module and a manufacturing method thereof.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, a first substrate having translucency, a second substrate disposed so as to face the first substrate, the first substrate, and the second substrate A plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells arranged in a plane between the substrate, a plurality of conductive members connecting the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells in series, the first substrate, and the second And a spacer having a plurality of conductive member housing portions for housing the plurality of conductive members, and a spacer for separating the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells. A sensitizing solar cell module, in which a conductive paste serving as a base material of the conductive member is introduced into each of the conductive member accommodating portions on the second substrate at a portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion. Dye-sensitized solar cell provided with a conductive paste introduction part Jules is provided.

  According to the present invention, the conductive paste introduction for introducing the conductive paste that becomes the base material of the conductive member into each conductive member housing portion is introduced into the second substrate at the portion facing each conductive member housing portion. For example, after the first and second substrates are fixed to the spacer, the plurality of conductive member accommodating portions are filled with the conductive paste introduced through the plurality of conductive paste introduction portions. Thus, the plurality of conductive members can be formed with high precision so as to have a predetermined height (the height of the conductive member that does not cause poor conduction or leakage of the electrolyte). This eliminates poor continuity between the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells and leakage of the electrolyte solution, so that a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module are reliably connected in series. Can do.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, a plurality of conductive layers for connecting in series a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells arranged in a plane between a first substrate and a second substrate having translucency. A conductive member, a plurality of conductive member storage portions that are disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and that store the conductive member, and a plurality of electrolyte solutions that are filled with an electrolyte solution A method of manufacturing a dye-sensitized solar cell module comprising a spacer having a portion, and penetrating the second substrate through the second substrate at a portion facing each conductive member housing portion. A conductive paste introduction part forming step for forming a plurality of conductive paste introduction parts, a substrate fixing step for fixing the first and second substrates to the spacer after the conductive paste introduction part forming step, and the substrate fixing After the step, the plurality of conductive member accommodating portions And a conductive member forming step of forming the plurality of conductive members by filling with a conductive paste supplied via an electrically conductive paste introduction part. A dye-sensitized solar cell module comprising: A manufacturing method is provided.

  According to the present invention, after forming a plurality of conductive paste introducing portions penetrating the second substrate on the second substrate in a portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion, the first and second substrates are disposed on the spacer. A plurality of conductive members are formed by fixing and then filling a plurality of conductive member receiving portions with a conductive paste supplied via a plurality of conductive paste introduction portions to form a plurality of conductive members. It is possible to form a plurality of conductive members with high accuracy so that the height becomes a predetermined height (the height of the conductive member that does not cause poor conduction or leakage of the electrolyte). This eliminates poor continuity between the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells and leakage of the electrolyte solution, so that a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module are reliably connected in series. Can do.

  According to the present invention, a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells provided in a dye-sensitized solar cell module can be reliably connected in series.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a dye-sensitized solar cell module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 17, the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 of the present embodiment includes a first substrate 11, a spacer 12, a second substrate 13, a first substrate 11, and a second substrate. 13, a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 arranged in a plane, a plurality of conductive members 17 connecting the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 in series, a sealing member 18, and a cover glass 19. And have.

  The first substrate 11 is a light-transmitting substrate and is fixed to one end of the spacer 12. The first substrate 11 is a substrate for transmitting sunlight. The sunlight transmitted through the first substrate 11 is irradiated to the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15. As the first substrate 11, for example, a glass substrate can be used. When a glass substrate is used as the first substrate 11, the thickness of the first substrate 11 can be set to 1 mm to 3 mm, for example.

  The spacer 12 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 13 that are arranged to face each other. The upper end portion of the spacer 12 is in contact with the surface 13 A of the second substrate 13. The lower end portion of the spacer 12 is in contact with the surface 11 </ b> A of the first substrate 11.

  FIG. 18 is a plan view of the spacer shown in FIG.

  Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the spacer 12 includes a plurality of electrolyte filling portions 22 and a plurality of conductive member accommodating portions 23. The plurality of electrolyte filling portions 22 are formed so as to penetrate the spacer 12. The plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 22 are spaces in which the electrolyte solution 33 is filled and the dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer 29 is accommodated.

  The conductive member accommodating portion 23 is formed so as to penetrate the spacer 12 in a portion located between the electrolyte filling portions 22. The conductive member accommodating portion 23 is a space for accommodating the conductive member 17. The width W1 of the conductive member accommodating portion 23 can be set to 0.5 mm to 1 mm, for example. In addition, the thickness M1 of the spacer 12 in the portion disposed between the first electrode layer 28-1 and the catalyst 32 can be set to 10 μm to 100 μm, for example.

  The spacer 12 having the above-described configuration maintains a predetermined distance (a value substantially equal to the thickness M1) between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 13, and the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 are provided. It is for separation. Examples of the material of the spacer 12 include a thermosetting resin (specifically, for example, an epoxy resin), a thermoplastic resin (specifically, for example, an ionomer resin), and a photocurable resin (specifically, for example). For example, UV curable epoxy resin) can be used.

  Referring to FIG. 17, the second substrate 13 is fixed to the lower end portion of the spacer 12 so that the surface 13 </ b> A of the second substrate 13 faces the surface 11 </ b> A of the first substrate 11. The second substrate 13 has a plurality of electrolyte solution introduction parts 25 and a plurality of conductive paste introduction parts 26.

  The electrolyte solution introduction part 25 is formed so as to penetrate the second substrate 13 at a part facing each electrolyte solution filling part 22. The electrolytic solution introduction unit 25 is for introducing the electrolytic solution 33 into the electrolytic solution filling unit 22. As the electrolytic solution introduction part 25, for example, a through hole having a shape corresponding to the supply port of the electrolytic solution dispenser can be used. When using a through-hole as the electrolyte solution introduction part 25, the diameter of the electrolyte solution introduction part 25 can be 500 micrometers-1000 micrometers, for example.

  The conductive paste introducing portion 26 is formed so as to penetrate the second substrate 13 at a portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion 23. The conductive paste introducing portion 26 is for introducing a conductive paste that becomes a base material of the conductive member 17 into the conductive member accommodating portion 23. As the conductive paste introducing portion 26, for example, a through hole having a shape corresponding to the supply port of the conductive paste dispenser can be used. When using a through-hole as the conductive paste introducing portion 26, the diameter of the conductive paste introducing portion 26 can be set to, for example, 500 μm to 1000 μm.

  As the 2nd board | substrate 13 set as the said structure, a glass substrate and the board | substrate (For example, SUS board | substrate etc.) which do not have translucency can be used, for example. When a glass substrate is used as the second substrate 13, the thickness of the second substrate 13 can be set to 1 mm to 3 mm, for example.

  Thus, the conductive paste introduction which introduces the conductive paste which becomes the base material of the conductive member 17 to each conductive member accommodating portion 23 in the second substrate 13 at the portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion 23. By providing the portion 26, for example, after the first and second substrates 11 and 13 are fixed to the spacer 12, a plurality of conductive members are formed by the conductive paste introduced through the plurality of conductive paste introduction portions 26. Filling the accommodating portion 23, a predetermined height (the height of the conductive member 17 that does not cause poor conduction or electrolyte leakage. In other words, a height that is substantially equal to the thickness M <b> 1 of the spacer 12. .), The plurality of conductive members 17 can be formed with high accuracy. This eliminates poor continuity between the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 and leakage of the electrolyte solution, so that the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 are reliably connected in series. Can be connected.

  The dye-sensitized solar cell 15 is a battery that converts sunlight into electrical energy using a dye, and includes a first electrode layer 28-1 or a first electrode layer 28-2, and a dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer. 29, the second electrode layer 31-1 or the second electrode layer 31-2, the catalyst layer 32, and the electrolytic solution 33.

  The first electrode layer 28-1 is provided on the surface 11 </ b> A of the first substrate 11 at a portion located near the right end of the first substrate 11 shown in FIG. 17. The first electrode layer 28-1 is disposed so as to face the electrolyte solution filling part 22 disposed at the right end of the spacer 12 shown in FIG. 17. A part of the first electrode layer 28-1 is drawn out of the spacer 12. The first electrode layer 28-1 is electrically connected to the second electrode layer 31-1 by wiring not shown.

  The first electrode layer 28-2 is one conductive member housing portion disposed so as to be adjacent to the electrolytic solution filling portion 22 from the surface 11 A of the first substrate 11 at a portion facing the electrolytic solution filling portion 22. 23 is provided so as to extend over the surface 11 A of the first substrate 11 at a portion facing 23. The first electrode layer 28-2 is in contact with the lower end portion of the conductive member 17. As the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2, for example, FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film) excellent in conductivity and light transmittance can be used. In this case, the thickness of the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2 can be set to 0.1 μm to 10 μm, for example.

  The dye-carrying oxide semiconductor layer 29 is provided on the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2 at portions facing the electrolytic solution filling part 22. The dye-carrying oxide semiconductor layer 29 is obtained by carrying a dye on an oxide semiconductor. As the oxide semiconductor, for example, titanium dioxide can be used. As the dye, for example, a ruthenium metal complex can be used.

  The second electrode layer 31-1 is provided on the surface 13 </ b> A of the second substrate 13 that is located near the left end of the second substrate 13 shown in FIG. 17. The second electrode layer 31-1 is opposed to the electrolytic solution filling part 22 located at the left end of the spacer 12 shown in FIG. A part of the second electrode layer 31-1 is drawn out of the spacer 12. The second electrode layer 31-1 is electrically connected to the first electrode layer 28-1 by wiring not shown.

  The second electrode layer 31-2 is one conductive member accommodating portion arranged so as to be adjacent to the electrolyte filling portion 22 from the surface 13A of the second substrate 13 at a portion facing the electrolyte filling portion 22. 23 is provided so as to extend over the surface 13 A of the second substrate 13 at a portion facing 23. The second electrode layer 31-2 is electrically connected to the conductive member 17 and the first electrode layer 28-2. As the second electrode layers 31-1, 31-2, for example, a transparent conductive film such as ITO (indium tin oxide film) or FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film), a Pt film, a Ti film, a W film, etc. Can be used.

  The catalyst layer 32 has conductivity and is provided so as to cover the surfaces 31A and 31-2A of the second electrode layers 31-1 and 31-2. The catalyst layer 32 is for smoothly transmitting light energy between the second electrode layers 31-1 and 31-2 and the electrolytic solution 33. As the catalyst layer 32, for example, a Pt layer or a C layer can be used. When a Pt layer is used as the catalyst layer 32, the thickness of the catalyst layer 32 can be set to 0.01 μm to 0.5 μm, for example.

  The electrolytic solution 33 fills the electrolytic solution filling unit 22 and the electrolytic solution introducing unit 25. The electrolytic solution 33 is a solution for supplying electrons to the dye when electrons are emitted from the dye constituting the dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer 29. As the electrolytic solution 33, for example, a solution containing iodine and an iodine compound such as lithium iodide can be used.

  The conductive member 17 is a member for connecting a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 in series, and is provided in the conductive member accommodating portion 23 and the conductive paste introducing portion 26. The conductive member 17 is electrically connected to the first and second electrode layers 28-2 and 31-2 arranged in the vertical direction of the conductive member accommodating portion 23. As the conductive member 17, for example, a conductive paste (specifically, for example, Ag paste) can be used. The height H1 of the portion of the conductive member 17 disposed between the catalyst layer 32 and the first electrode layer 28-2 is set to be substantially equal to the thickness M1 of the spacer 12. When the thickness M1 of the spacer 12 is 10 μm to 100 μm, the height H1 of the conductive member 17 can be set to 10 μm to 100 μm, for example.

  The sealing member 18 is provided so as to cover the surface 13B of the second substrate 13 (the surface of the second substrate 13 opposite to the side facing the spacer 12). The sealing member 18 covers the surface 13B of the second substrate 13 to hermetically seal the electrolytic solution filling unit 22 connected to the electrolytic solution introducing unit 25 and to be electrically conductive connected to the conductive paste introducing unit 26. This is a member for hermetically sealing the member accommodating portion 23. Examples of the sealing member 18 include a thermosetting resin (specifically, for example, an epoxy resin), a thermoplastic resin (specifically, for example, an ionomer resin), and a photocurable resin (specifically, for example). For example, UV curable epoxy resin) can be used. The thickness of the sealing member 18 can be 0.1 μm to 100 μm, for example.

  The cover glass 19 is provided so as to cover the surface 18A of the sealing member 18. The cover glass 19 is for protecting the sealing member 18. The thickness of the cover glass 19 can be set to 0.1 mm to 1 mm, for example.

  According to the dye-sensitized solar cell module of the present embodiment, the conductive material connected to the conductive member housing portion 23 so as to penetrate the portion of the second substrate 13 that faces each conductive member housing portion 23. By providing the conductive paste introducing portion 26, for example, after fixing the first and second substrates 11 and 13 to the spacer 12, the conductive paste introducing portions 26 are connected to the plurality of conductive member accommodating portions 23 through the conductive paste introducing portions 26. A plurality of conductive members 17 can be formed by filling the conductive paste. As a result, the variation in the height H1 of the plurality of conductive members 17 is eliminated, and the electrical connection between each conductive member 17 and the first and second electrode layers 28-2 and 31-2 disposed in the vertical direction thereof. Therefore, the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 can be reliably connected in series.

  FIG. 19 to FIG. 29 are diagrams showing manufacturing steps of the dye-sensitized solar cell module according to the embodiment of the present invention. 19 to 29, the same components as those of the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 of the present embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  First, in the step shown in FIG. 19, a light-transmitting conductive film 41 is formed on the surface 11A of the cleaned first substrate 11. Specifically, for example, an FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film) is formed as the conductive film 41 on the surface 11A of the cleaned first substrate 11 by vapor deposition or sputtering. In this case, the thickness of FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film) can be set to 0.1 μm to 10 μm, for example. The conductive film 41 is a film that becomes the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2 by patterning in a step shown in FIG. 20 described later.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 20, the conductive film 41 shown in FIG. 19 is patterned to form the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2. The conductive film 41 is patterned by, for example, etching the conductive film 41 by an anisotropic etching method.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 21, the dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer 29 is formed on the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2. Specifically, for example, a paste-like oxide semiconductor is formed on the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2 by a printing method (for example, squeegee printing) or a coating method, and then a paste-like oxide semiconductor is formed. The oxide semiconductor is formed by drying and baking the physical semiconductor. Thereafter, the dye-supported oxide semiconductor layer 29 is formed by immersing the oxide semiconductor in a solution containing a dye (for example, a ruthenium metal complex). As the oxide semiconductor, for example, titanium dioxide can be used.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 22, a conductive film 43 is formed so as to cover the cleaned surface 13 </ b> A of the second substrate 13. Specifically, for example, an FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film) is formed as the conductive film 43 on the surface 13A of the cleaned second substrate 13 by vapor deposition or sputtering. In this case, the thickness of FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film) can be set to 0.1 μm to 10 μm, for example. As the conductive film 43, a conductive film that does not have optical transparency can be used. Specifically, for example, a film such as a Pt film, a Ti film, or a W film may be used as the conductive film 43 instead of FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide film). The conductive film 43 is a film that becomes the second electrode layers 31-1 and 31-2 by patterning in a step shown in FIG. 23 described later.

  Next, in the process shown in FIG. 23, a plurality of electrolyte solution introduction portions 25 and a plurality of conductive paste introduction portions 26 are formed simultaneously on the second substrate 13 (conductive paste introduction portion formation step and electrolyte solution introduction portion formation). Process). Specifically, for example, a plurality of electrolytic solution introduction portions 25 and a conductive paste introduction portion 26 are formed by penetrating the structure shown in FIG. 22 by laser processing or drilling.

  In this way, by forming the plurality of electrolyte introduction portions 25 and the plurality of conductive paste introduction portions 26 on the second substrate 13 simultaneously, the plurality of electrolyte introduction portions 25 and the plurality of conductive paste introduction portions 26 are formed. Since the manufacturing process can be simplified as compared with the case where they are separately formed, the manufacturing cost of the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 can be reduced.

  As the electrolyte solution introduction part 25 and the conductive paste introduction part 26, for example, a through hole can be used. When the electrolyte solution introduction part 25 is a through hole, the diameter of the electrolyte solution introduction part 25 can be set to, for example, 500 μm to 1000 μm. Moreover, when the conductive paste introduction part 26 is a through hole, the diameter of the conductive paste introduction part 26 can be set to, for example, 500 μm to 1000 μm.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 24, the catalyst layer 32 is formed so as to cover the upper surface of the conductive film 43. As the catalyst layer 32, for example, a Pt layer or a C layer can be used. When a Pt layer is used as the catalyst layer 32, the catalyst layer 32 can be formed by sputtering, for example. Further, when a Pt layer is used as the catalyst layer 32, the thickness of the catalyst layer 32 can be set to 0.01 μm to 0.5 μm, for example.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 25, the catalyst layer 32 and the conductive film 43 are patterned to form the second electrode layers 31-1, 31-2 and a spacer insertion portion 45 into which a part of the spacer 12 is inserted. Are formed at the same time. Specifically, for example, by etching the catalyst layer 32 and the conductive film 43 until the surface 13A of the second substrate 13 is exposed by an anisotropic etching method, the second electrode layers 31-1, 31- 2 and the spacer insertion part 45 are formed.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 26, the spacer 12 having a plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions 22 and conductive member accommodating portions 23 is prepared. Examples of the material of the spacer 12 include a film-shaped thermosetting resin (specifically, for example, an epoxy resin), a thermoplastic resin (specifically, for example, an ionomer resin), and a photocurable resin. Resin (specifically, UV curable epoxy resin etc.) etc. can be used, for example.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 27, the structure shown in FIG. 21 (specifically, the first substrate 11 on which the first electrode layers 28-1 and 28-2 and the dye-carrying oxide semiconductor layer 29 are formed). ) And the structure shown in FIG. 25 (specifically, the second substrate 13 on which the second electrode layers 31-1, 31-2 and the catalyst layer 32 are formed), and the spacer 12 is disposed, By applying pressure to the first and second substrates 11 and 13 and curing the spacer 12 by heating (for example, when the material of the spacer 12 is a thermoplastic resin, the spacer is heated and cured). The first and second substrates 11 and 13 are fixed to the spacer 12 (substrate fixing step).

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 28, the supply port 47A of the electrolytic solution dispenser 47 that supplies the electrolytic solution 33 is brought into contact with the electrolytic solution introduction unit 25 and the supply port of the conductive paste dispenser 48 that supplies the conductive paste. 48A is brought into contact with the conductive paste introducing portion 26. Thereafter, the supply of the electrolytic solution 33 from the electrolytic solution dispenser 47 and the supply of the conductive paste from the conductive paste dispenser 48 are simultaneously performed, and the electrolytic solution 33 is filled with the electrolytic solution filling unit 22 and the electrolytic solution introducing unit 25. And the conductive member accommodating portion 23 and the conductive paste introducing portion 26 are filled with a conductive paste. As a result, the conductive member 17 made of a conductive paste is formed in the conductive member housing portion 23 and the electrolytic solution 33 is filled (conductive member forming step and electrolytic solution filling step). Thereby, a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 are manufactured. As the electrolytic solution 33, for example, a solution containing iodine and an iodine compound such as lithium iodide can be used. Further, as the conductive paste, for example, an Ag paste or the like can be used.

  As described above, after forming the conductive paste introducing portion 26 penetrating the second substrate 13 on the second substrate 13 in the portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion 23, the first and second substrates are formed in the spacer 12. 11 and 13 are fixed, and then a plurality of conductive member accommodating portions 23 are filled with a conductive paste supplied via a plurality of conductive paste introducing portions 26 to form a plurality of conductive members 17. The height H1 of the plurality of conductive members 17 is a predetermined height (the height of the conductive member that does not cause poor conduction or leakage of the electrolyte. Specifically, the height H1 is substantially equal to the thickness M1 of the spacer 12. ), The plurality of conductive members 17 can be formed with high accuracy. This eliminates poor continuity between the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 and leakage of the electrolyte solution 33, so that the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 can be surely provided. Can be connected in series.

  Further, the filling of the electrolytic solution 33 into the plurality of electrolytic solution filling portions 22 (electrolytic solution filling step) and the filling of the conductive paste into the plurality of conductive member housing portions 23 (conductive member forming step) are performed simultaneously. As a result, the manufacturing process can be simplified, and the manufacturing cost of the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 can be reduced.

  Next, in the step shown in FIG. 29, the sealing member 18 is formed so as to cover the surface 13B of the second substrate 13 (sealing member forming step), and then the cover glass 19 is applied to the surface 18A of the sealing member 18. Arrange. Specifically, for example, the sheet-shaped sealing member 18 is attached so as to cover the surface 13B of the second substrate 13, and then the cover glass 19 is placed on the surface 18A of the sealing member 18, Then, the sealing member 18 and the cover glass 19 are pressure-bonded by pressing the cover glass 19 while curing the sealing member 18. Thereby, the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 is manufactured. Thus, by forming the sealing member 18 so as to cover the surface 13B of the second substrate 13, the electrolytic solution 33 leaks from the electrolytic solution introduction unit 25 or the conductive paste from the conductive paste introduction unit 26. Can be prevented from leaking out. Examples of the sealing member 18 include a thermosetting resin (specifically, for example, an epoxy resin), a thermoplastic resin (specifically, for example, an ionomer resin), and a photocurable resin (specifically, for example). For example, UV curable epoxy resin) can be used. The thickness of the sealing member 18 can be 0.1 μm to 100 μm, for example. Moreover, the thickness of the cover glass 19 can be 0.1 mm-1 mm, for example.

  According to the method for manufacturing the dye-sensitized solar cell module of the present embodiment, the conductive paste introducing portion that penetrates the second substrate 13 into the second substrate 13 in the portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion 23. After forming 26, the first and second substrates 11 and 13 are fixed to the spacer 12, and then a plurality of conductive member accommodating portions 23 are formed by the conductive paste supplied through the plurality of conductive paste introducing portions 26. Is formed to form a plurality of conductive members 17, so that the height H1 of the plurality of conductive members 17 is a predetermined height (the height of a conductive member that does not cause poor conduction or leakage of electrolyte solution. Specifically, the plurality of conductive members 17 can be formed with high accuracy so that the thickness M1 is substantially equal to the thickness M1 of the spacer 12. This eliminates poor continuity between the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 and leakage of the electrolyte solution 33, so that the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells 15 provided in the dye-sensitized solar cell module 10 can be surely provided. Can be connected in series.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and within the scope of the present invention described in the claims, Various modifications and changes are possible. For example, a plurality of conductive paste introducing portions 26 may be provided for one conductive member accommodating portion 23. Further, the shape of the conductive paste introducing portion 26 is not limited to the shape of the conductive paste introducing portion 26 described in the present embodiment.

  The present invention is applicable to a dye-sensitized solar cell module in which a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells arranged in a plane are connected in series and a method for manufacturing the same.

It is sectional drawing of the typical structure of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 1) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (2) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (The 3) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 4) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (5) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (6) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 7) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 8) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 9) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 10) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 11) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is a figure (the 12) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (The 13) which shows the manufacturing process of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (1) for demonstrating the problem of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is FIG. (2) for demonstrating the problem of the conventional dye-sensitized solar cell module. It is sectional drawing of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a top view of the spacer shown in FIG. It is a figure (the 1) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (the 2) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is FIG. (The 3) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is FIG. (4) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is FIG. (5) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is FIG. (6) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is FIG. (The 7) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (the 8) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (the 9) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (the 10) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (the 11) which shows the manufacturing process of the dye-sensitized solar cell module which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Dye-sensitized solar cell module 11 First substrate 11A, 13A, 13B, 18A, 31A, 31-2A Surface 12 Spacer 13 Second substrate 15 Dye-sensitized solar cell 17 Conductive member 18 Sealing member 19 Cover glass 22 Electrolyte filling portion 23 Conductive member accommodating portion 25 Electrolyte introducing portion 26 Conductive paste introducing portion 28-1, 28-2 First electrode layer 29 Dye-carrying oxide semiconductor layer 31-1, 31-2 Second electrode layer 32 Catalyst layer 33 Electrolytic solution 41, 43 Conductive film 45 Spacer insertion portion 47 Dispenser for electrolytic solution 47A, 48A Supply port 48 Dispenser for conductive paste H1 Height M1 Thickness W1 Width

Claims (7)

A first substrate having translucency;
A second substrate disposed to face the first substrate;
A plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells disposed in a plane between the first substrate and the second substrate;
A plurality of conductive members connecting the plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells in series;
The plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells are disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, and have a plurality of conductive member housing portions for housing the plurality of conductive members. A dye-sensitized solar cell module provided with a separating spacer,
A conductive paste introducing portion for introducing a conductive paste serving as a base material of the conductive member into each conductive member accommodating portion is provided on the second substrate at a portion facing each conductive member accommodating portion. A dye-sensitized solar cell module characterized by the above.   2. The dye-sensitized solar cell module according to claim 1, wherein the conductive paste introducing portion is a through-hole penetrating the second substrate.   The dye sensitizing method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a sealing member for sealing the conductive paste introducing portion is provided on the surface of the second substrate opposite to the side facing the spacer. Sensitive solar cell module. A plurality of conductive members for connecting in series a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells arranged in a plane between the first substrate and the second substrate having translucency;
A plurality of conductive member accommodating portions that are disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and that accommodate the conductive members; and a plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions that are filled with an electrolyte solution. A method for producing a dye-sensitized solar cell module comprising a spacer,
A conductive paste introduction portion forming step of forming a plurality of conductive paste introduction portions penetrating the second substrate on the second substrate in a portion facing each conductive member housing portion;
A substrate fixing step of fixing the first and second substrates to the spacer after the conductive paste introducing portion forming step;
Conductive member formation for forming the plurality of conductive members by filling the plurality of conductive member accommodating portions with the conductive paste supplied via the plurality of conductive paste introducing portions after the substrate fixing step. A process for producing a dye-sensitized solar cell module. An electrolyte solution introduction part forming step of forming a plurality of electrolyte solution introduction parts on the second substrate in a portion facing each electrolyte solution filling part so as to penetrate the second substrate;
5. The method for producing a dye-sensitized solar cell module according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of electrolyte solution introduction portions and the plurality of conductive paste introduction portions are formed simultaneously. After the substrate fixing step, the electrolytic solution filling step of filling the plurality of electrolytic solution filling portions with the electrolytic solution from each electrolytic solution introduction portion,
6. The dye sensitizing method according to claim 4, wherein filling of the electrolyte solution into the plurality of electrolyte solution filling portions and filling of the conductive paste into the plurality of conductive member housing portions are performed simultaneously. Manufacturing method of sensitive solar cell module.   After the conductive member forming step and the electrolytic solution filling step, the plurality of electrolytic solution introduction portions and the plurality of conductive pastes are introduced on the surface of the second substrate opposite to the side facing the spacer. The method for producing a dye-sensitized solar cell module according to claim 6, further comprising a sealing member forming step of forming a sealing member for sealing the portion.

Images