Photodiode-like behavior of jelly dye-sensitized donor-acceptor dendrimers

Hybrid photodiodes (HPD) systems are on the rise. The growing interest on these devices is mainly due to their power in image sensing and bioengineering solutions. In this work, a new class of donor-acceptor dendrimers was synthesized and incorporated, along with a ruthenium sensitizer dye, into low cost devices comprised of one single layer of a biocompatible matrix (agarose). Exploring different electrodes, low current devices with a counter-electrode dependent response have been successfully assembled at room temperature. Using a stainless steel electrode, sensitized donor-acceptor dendrimers provide photodiode-like systems having nA dark currents.