A uniform and dense distribution of Pt nano-particles (Pt-NPs) was achieved via the thermal decomposition of a Pt precursor both with and without hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) by controlling the heating rate. The study of both HPC and the effect of heating rates on Pt-nanoparticles played an important role in the catalytic activity of Pt counter electrodes. The performance of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) was enhanced at a heating rate of 7 degrees C s(-1) using a Pt solution with the addition of 0.05 g/10 rnL HPC, and the following parameters were confirmed: J(sc) = 16.4 mAcm(-2), V-oc = 0.77 V, FF = 71.0%, and efficiency (eta) = 9.03%. (C) 2014 The Electrochemical Society.