Synthesis and characterization of sol–gel derived LaFe_0.5Mn_0.5O₃ perovskite powders for dye-sensitized solar cell applications

In the present work, structural, microstructural, thermal, magnetic and optical properties of LaFe_0.5Mn_0.5O₃ prepared perovskite powders were exclusively compared for processing temperatures for applications of dye-sensitized solar cells. In this framework, LaFe_0.5Mn_0.5O₃ perovskite powders were synthesized with the sol–gel method at 500 °C and 850 °C (according to DTA/TG results). They were characterized through DTA/TGA (Thermogravimetric and Differential Thermal Analysis), FTIR (Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy), XRD (X-Ray Diffractometer), XPS (X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy), PSA (Particle Size Analysis), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), VSM (Vibrating Sample Magnetometer) and UV–Vis Spectrometer. In line with the obtained results, ferroelectric perovskite powders were successfully produced. These powders have crystallite sizes of 27.38–35.74 nm, bandgap values of 1.19–0.93 eV, particle sizes of 28–358 nm and ferromagnetic properties. In addition to the effect of synthesis temperature on LaFe_0.5Mn_0.5O₃ synthesis with these characterization processes, it was found that the production of sustainable and applicable dye-sensitized solar cells using LaFe_0.5Mn_0.5O₃ powders can be useful as innovative and futuristic approaches.