Thrust I: Discovery of new nanocrystals with mechanistic understanding
This research thrust focuses on the development of colloidal synthetic methodology to access a) nanocrystals of materials that have been predicted computationally but no synthesized and b) materials that have been synthesized in the bulk yet not as nanocrystals. We aim to have high degree of control over the size, shape, composition, and crystal structure as these factors influence the properties of the materials. We also seek to gain insights into the synthesis mechanism, with particular interest on the molecular stage of the reactions and interrogation of the reactions with in situ analytical techniques. Theses insight will allow us to decrease our dependency on the trial-&-error approach while contributing to expanding the library of nanocrystals that can be synthesized. The materials targeted are relevant for a range of applications, including those of Thrust’s II & III.
Thrust II: Electroactive nanomaterials for renewable energy and environmental remediation
This research thrust is centered around the synthesis and characterization of binary and ternary metal alloys with tunable composition. We use colloidal (solution) routes to synthesized these materials. Structure and composition characterization is carried using a range of techniques including, powder X-ray diffraction, scanning/transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and ICP-MS. The synthesized alloys are then evaluated as electrocatalysts for the generation of fuel and feedstocks via the hydrogen evolution reaction, CO2 reduction, and seaweed biomass conversion.
Thrust III: Metal oxide nanocrystals for light harvesting and electronics
Many metal oxides are of great interest for a number of applications due to their thermal and chemical stability. In many cases this stability comes at expense of poor light harvesting properties. A part of this research trust focuses on the synthesis of metal oxides with modified optical properties that enable better ability to harvest photons while retaining the desirable stability. We aim to apply these materials in photocatalysis for environmental remediation of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), oxide based solar cells, and photodynamic therapy. Also part of this research trust is work geared towards the synthesis of transparent p-type oxide materials using colloidal routes. This class of materials is of great interest for electronic devices and solar cells.
