Physicochemical Properties and Optoelectronic Performance of Native Natural Dyes

Document Type : Research

Authors

1 Department of Physics, Persian Gulf University, P. O. Code: 7516913817, Bushehr, Iran.

2 Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals, Persian Gulf University, P. O. Code: 7516913817, Bushehr, Iran.

3 Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Petroleum, Gas, and Petrochemical Engineering, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, Iran.

10.30509/jscw.2025.167661.1261

Abstract

In this study, the optical, structural, and electronic performance of natural dyes extracted from three plant sources—pomegranate flower, sumac, and corn silk—were investigated to evaluate their efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) applications. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed that the pomegranate flower pigment exhibited the highest light absorption in the UV–visible range and the greatest anthocyanin content. In dye– TiO2 composites, the pomegranate flower sample also demonstrated the strongest optical response. FTIR analysis confirmed the clear presence of O–H, C=O, and C–O bonds in the pomegranate flower extract and, to a lesser extent, in corn silk, indicating the existence of active chromophores and functional groups suitable for effective binding to TiO2. Conductivity comparisons showed that deionized water as a solvent significantly enhanced conductivity, particularly in the corn silk extract, due to the presence of polar compounds and increased ionic mobility. Energy-level analysis along with electrolyte resistance measurements, demonstrated that pomegranate flower and corn silk possess optimal energy gaps, lower LUMO levels, and reduced electrolyte resistance compared with other samples. These features are crucial for improving electron transfer in DSSCs. Overall, the results indicate that pomegranate flower and corn silk extracts, owing to their structural, optical, and electronic characteristics, are promising candidates for application in natural dye-sensitized solar cells.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Studies in Color World
Volume 16, Issue 2
September 2026
Pages 171-183

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History

  • Receive Date: 18 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 16 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 23 November 2025

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