Article
Energy & Fuels
Pan Wang, Zhifeng Liu, Changcun Han, Yongjin Zou, Zhengfu Tong, Baohua Tan
Summary: In this study, a reasonable, simple, and low-cost strategy was developed to enhance the photoelectrochemical performance of Cu2O by decorating it with Cu and Al layers. The Cu/Al layers exhibited surface plasmon resonance effect and combined the high conductivity of Cu with the ability of Al to form a thin Al2O3 layer, which hindered Fermi-level pinning and accelerated the transfer of photoinduced electron-hole pairs. The Cu/Al/Cu2O photocathode showed a significantly higher photocurrent density compared to pure Cu2O, indicating the effectiveness of bimetallic loading in improving PEC water splitting. This study inspires further exploration of novel and effective bimetallic catalysts.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Amin Aadenan, Nurul Affiqah Arzaee, Mohamad Firdaus Mohamad Noh, Inzamam Nawas Nawas Mumthas, Nurul Aida Mohamed, Mohd Norizam Md Daud, Mohd Adib Ibrahim, Norasikin Ahmad Ludin, Mohd Asri Mat Teridi
Summary: Numerous methods have been utilized for fabricating LaFeO3 photocathodes, but the challenge lies in producing practical and stable single thin film photocathodes with sufficient photocurrent. This study successfully fabricated LaFeO3 photocathodes using an inexpensive commercialized spray gun deposition method. The results showed enhanced micro-structural formation and improved visible light absorption, leading to a higher photocurrent density and good charge transfer behavior. Therefore, the LaFeO3 thin film fabricated in this study is reliable for scalable optoelectronic device production, specifically for photoelectrochemical photocathodes.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Xin Sun, Zhineng Lan, Min Wang, Qi Geng, Xiaojun Lv, Meicheng Li
Summary: This study investigates the partial substitution of La3+ ions in LaFeO3 with Ag+ ions to enhance the photoelectrochemical performance. Experimental and computational studies show that Ag-substitution improves surface charge transfer kinetics through introducing active electronic states and increasing electrochemically active surface areas. Furthermore, Ag-substitution decreases grain boundary number and increases majority carrier density, promoting bulk charge transports and reducing bandgap energy. After 8% Ag-substitution, the photocurrent density of LaFeO3 is enhanced by more than 6 times, exhibiting the highest photocurrent gain compared to other substitutions. This work provides insights into the mechanism of enhanced photoelectrochemical performance by doping or substitution.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
D. Amaranatha Reddy, Yujin Kim, Pooja Varma, Madhusudana Gopannagari, K. Arun Joshi Reddy, Da Hye Hong, Inae Song, D. Praveen Kumar, Tae Kyu Kim
Summary: This paper introduces an inverse opal-like structured photocathode fabricated using a layered self-assembly approach for photoelectrochemical water-splitting cells. The photocathode has an interconnected macroporous structure that enhances visible-light-harvesting capabilities and improves charge-carrier transport properties. The optimized photocathodes showed high photocurrent density and stability, as well as exceptional photon harvesting and quantum yields.
ACS APPLIED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Mohit Kumar, Bhagatram Meena, Palyam Subramanyam, Duvvuri Suryakala, Challapalli Subrahmanyam
Summary: Photoelectrochemical water splitting is a method to generate hydrogen from water using solar radiation, but its efficiency is limited. The synergistic effect of using different strategies with cocatalyst decoration shows promise for enhancing efficiency and stability.
NPG ASIA MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Yonghwan Lee, Bikesh Gupta, Hark Hoe Tan, Chennupati Jagadish, Jihun Oh, Siva Karuturi
Summary: This study presents a successful design and fabrication of free-standing silicon photoanodes with the incorporation of nickel oxide thin film, light-trapping surface structure, and rear-pn(+) junction, demonstrating high efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Article
Electrochemistry
Xuliang Pang, Hongye Bai, Yong Zhao, Lingling Qu, Dongbo Xu, Jinrui Ding, Weiqiang Fan, Weidong Shi
Summary: A sensitive/visible light-driven PEC sensor system was established for selectively detecting 4-NP using a Ni/Cu2O photocathode. The Ni/Cu2O photocathode exhibited excellent PEC reduction capacity for ultra-sensitive sensing of trace amounts of 4-NP under illumination.
ELECTROCHIMICA ACTA
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Pooja Varma, Liana Alvares Rodrigues, Yu Lianqing, D. Amaranatha Reddy
Summary: A layered self-assembly method was used to fabricate CuBi2O4 photocathodes with different electrochemical active areas. The photocathodes with an active area of 5 cm(2) demonstrated the highest photocurrent density and Faradaic efficiency. The low-cost and scalable fabrication method could be applied to large-scale production of efficient hydrogen production devices.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Palyam Subramanyam, Bhagatram Meena, Vasudevanpillai Biju, Hiroaki Misawa, Subrahmanyam Challapalli
Summary: Energy production and environmental pollution are major global concerns. Solar-to-hydrogen conversion through photoelectrochemical water splitting has potential, but faces challenges. The integration of metal plasmons offers new mechanisms to improve the performance of this process.
JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY C-PHOTOCHEMISTRY REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Florin Andrei, Valentin Ion, Ruxandra Birjega, Maria Dinescu, Nicoleta Enea, Dan Pantelica, Maria Diana Mihai, Valentin-Adrian Maraloiu, Valentin Serban Teodorescu, Ioan-Cezar Marcu, Nicu Doinel Scarisoreanu
Summary: The study investigates the formation of self-assembled nanodomains in LaFeO3 epitaxial thin films and their effects on the photoelectrochemical properties, revealing detrimental effects on PEC functional properties when nanopyramids-like domains appear after a thickness threshold. The research provides insights into the structural and stoichiometric features that influence the photocurrent density and onset potential exhibited by LFO photoelectrodes. Moreover, the highest photocurrent density values were observed for the thinnest LFO/Nb:SrTiO3 sample, showing excellent stability over time and unbiased hydrogen evolution from water.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sung-Mook Kang
Summary: This study demonstrates the possibility of using a ridge-type nanoaperture combined with an array of Au nanoparticles to amplify the intensity of incident optical light transmitted into the media. Through numerical simulations, it was observed that the optical intensity amplification first occurs in the near-field region of the nanoaperture, then between the metal nanoparticles, and finally transferred to the media. Various parameters were studied to increase the intensity in the near-field region, showing promising results.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Meihong Chen, Xiaobo Chang, Can Li, Hongqiang Wang, Lichao Jia
Summary: FeOOH/Ni-BiVO4 photoanode synthesized by a facile wet chemical method shows improved charge transport and separation efficiency. The water oxidation photocurrent density reaches 3.02 mA cm-2 at 1.23 V vs RHE, and the surface separation efficiency is boosted to 73.3%, about 4 times higher than that of the pure sample. Ni doping promotes hole transport/trapping and introduces more active sites for water oxidation, while FeOOH co-catalyst passivates the Ni-BiVO4 photoanode surface. This work provides a model for the design of BiVO4-based photoanodes with thermodynamic and kinetic advantages.
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Xianhong He, Wei Tian, Lin Yang, Zhengyu Bai, Liang Li
Summary: When constructing photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical systems, improving the efficiency of semiconductor photo-to-chemical conversion is limited by factors such as surface catalytic activity, light absorption range, and carrier separation efficiency. Modulation strategies, including modifying light propagation behavior and regulating absorption range based on optics, as well as constructing and regulating the built-in electric field based on carrier behavior in semiconductors, are implemented to enhance photoelectrochemical performance. This review summarizes the mechanism and research advancements of optical and electrical modulation strategies for photoelectrodes, discussing characterization methods, plasmon and photonic crystal structures, electrical polarization materials, and the challenges and opportunities associated with these strategies.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Carlos G. O. Bruziquesi, Matheus C. P. Stolzemburg, Rafael R. de Souza, Mariandry Rodriguez, Maria L. Rocco, Pedro E. A. Salomao, Andre E. Nogueira, Zoraya E. Lopez-Cabana, Marcio C. Pereira, Adilson C. Silva
Summary: CuBi2O4 is a promising photocathode material for water-splitting photoelectrochemical cells, but its poor stability due to Cu2+ reduction limits its application. This study presents a strategy to decrease Cu2+ reduction by using cobalt as a sacrificial metal. Co-doped CuBi2O4 films were prepared, and the reduction of Cu2+ was minimized by the partial oxidation of Co2+ to Co3+. Compared to the CuBi2O4 film, the Co-doped film exhibited a significantly lower drop in photocurrent, indicating enhanced photostability.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Zi Ye, Lixia Yang, Minchao Qin, Xinhui Lu, Xudong Xiao
Summary: By developing a two-step growth protocol, effective and uniform Cu doping was achieved in CdS1_xSex thin films, leading to enhanced photoelectrochemical performance with a photocurrent as high as 1.4 mA/cm2. This study provides an effective approach towards fabricating efficient II-VI group thin film photocathodes.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Preeti Singh, Sourav Khanna, Vijay Mudgal, Sanjeev Newar, Vashi Sharma, Senthilarasu Sundaram, K. S. Reddy, Tapas K. Mallick, Victor Becerra, David Hutchinson, Jovana Radulovic, Rinat Khusainov
Summary: In this study, three dimensional analysis of solar cells under non-uniform solar flux was conducted, aiming to obtain an analytical expression for the three dimensional non-uniform temperature distribution of the cell. The effects of wind direction, wind speed, inclination, and solar irradiance on temperature distribution, heat losses and cell efficiency were investigated for different types of solar cells. The results showed that efficiency decreases with an increase in wind azimuthal from 0 degrees to 90 degrees for all types of solar cells.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Asmaa Ahmed, Gan Zhang, Katie Shanks, Senthilarasu Sundaram, Yulong Ding, Tapas Mallick
Summary: This study investigates the performance of multi-junction solar cells in high concentrated photovoltaic systems with mini-channel heat sinks, finding that the use of nanofluids helps reduce cell temperature and increase overall efficiency of the system.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sasireka Velusamy, Anurag Roy, Senthilarasu Sundaram, Tapas Kumar Mallick
Summary: Textile wastewater heavy metal pollution has become a severe global environmental issue, with significant impacts on natural water resources and human health. Graphene oxide as an adsorbent exhibits advantages in efficient removal of heavy metal ions, playing a crucial role in the remediation of textile wastewater.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Mussad Alzahrani, Katie Shanks, Tapas K. Mallick
Summary: This article discusses the influence of temperature on CPVT components and the impact of increasing concentration ratio on system performance. It also reviews the advantages, disadvantages, and potential of current CPVT research.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Mussad M. Alzahrani, Anurag Roy, Senthilarasu Sundaram, Tapas K. Mallick
Summary: This study investigated the application of graphene-coated neutral density filters in concentrated photovoltaic systems, finding that it effectively lowers the focal point temperature and reduces thermal stress on the PV cells. Additionally, there were significant differences in the thermal and electrical properties of the GC samples depending on their thickness and placement.
Review
Energy & Fuels
Reza Khalifeeh, Hameed Alrashidi, Nazmi Sellami, Tapas Mallick, Walid Issa
Summary: Semi-transparent Building Integrated Photovoltaics offer a new approach to renewable energy by merging energy generation with aesthetically pleasing building components. Their energy performance is influenced by various factors and the analytical framework presented in this paper can help identify efficient solutions, yet energy losses cannot always be completely mitigated.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Saheli Sengupta, Aritra Ghosh, Tapas K. Mallick, Chandan Kumar Chanda, Hiranmay Saha, Indrajit Bose, Joydip Jana, Samarjit Sengupta
Summary: This paper investigates the generation loss in solar photovoltaic power plants due to dust deposition, proposing a physics-based model for estimation and measurement of the loss. It also examines the impact of climatic covariates on the soiling pattern of the system, and extends the model to predict generation accounting for soiling loss. The results are validated with measured values, demonstrating the effectiveness of the model.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jianhui Li, Wei Zhang, Bo He, Lingzhi Xie, Xia Hao, Tapas Mallick, Katie Shanks, Mo Chen, Zihao Li
Summary: The CPV-CW system has been designed, tested, and analyzed for integration with buildings. Results show that it can improve PV module efficiency, create a more uniform indoor lighting environment, and have potential applications for building insulation. The system also exhibits different performance in terms of transmittance and generation efficiency under different weather conditions, with winter showing the highest efficiency.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yusuf N. Chanchangi, Anurag Roy, Aritra Ghosh, Senthilarasu Sundaram, Tapas K. Mallick
Summary: The study compared five cost-effective mitigation techniques for soiling on PV systems in Nigeria, finding that different cleaning methods and materials have varying impacts on PV performance in different seasons. Low iron glass proved more durable, with the self-cleaning technique showing the best results during the wet season.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Nadimul Haque Faisal, Nazmi Sellami, Federico Venturi, Tanvir Hussain, Tapas Mallick, Firdaus Muhammad-Sukki, Alex Bishop, Hari Upadhyaya, Nirmal Kumar Katiyar, Saurav Goel
Summary: This study investigates the feasibility of manufacturing large-scale metamaterial coatings using the thermal spray technique. Comparing Cr2O3 and TiO2 coatings on different substrates, it was found that Cr2O3 coatings on aluminum substrates have improved optical performance, making them more suitable for fabricating opto-electronic devices. Through novel applications of thermal spray techniques, large-scale manufacturing of metamaterial coatings is shown to be possible, impacting electromagnetic wave propagation.
EMERGENT MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yu Han, Yan Yang, Tapas Mallick, Chuang Wen
Summary: This study proposes the use of phase change materials (PCM) as thermal energy storage units to enhance the stability and flexibility of solar-energy-based heating and cooling systems. A mathematical model is developed to evaluate the melting process of PCM, taking into consideration the effect of nanoparticles on heat transfer. The results show that natural convection plays a dominant role in the flow behavior of PCM melting, and the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles improves PCM melting performance but higher thermal conductivity does not contribute significantly to the melting performance of PCMs.
Review
Energy & Fuels
Mustafa Majid Rashak Al-Fartoos, Anurag Roy, Tapas K. K. Mallick, Asif Ali Tahir
Summary: This article discusses the use of thermoelectric glazing as a sustainable material to improve thermal performance and generate green electricity. It provides detailed instructions and potential solutions for building and optimizing this system. The thermoelectric figure of merit of these materials offers new perspectives for future energy-positive built environments and plays a crucial role in addressing the energy crisis.
Review
Energy & Fuels
Sreeram Valsalakumar, Anurag Roy, Tapas K. Mallick, Justin Hinshelwood, Senthilarasu Sundaram
Summary: The power conversion efficiencies of Perovskite solar cells have significantly improved between 2012 and 2022. These solar cells have excellent optoelectronic properties and can be manufactured using low-cost materials. This review article explores scalable perovskite deposition techniques, including the fabrication of high-quality perovskite film, their stabilities, and commercialization status. Various deposition techniques, such as spin coating and slot die coating, as well as vapour-assisted deposition approaches, are discussed. These techniques offer advantages in terms of cost, mask-less patterning, and design freedom.
Review
Energy & Fuels
Maria Khalid, Tapas Kumar Mallick
Summary: Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have shown great potential as the next generation of PV devices due to their rapidly increasing power conversion efficiencies. However, their long-term stability is a critical issue that needs to be addressed before commercialization. This review discusses the evolution of solar cells, the characteristics of perovskite, strategies to improve performance, and the relationship between stability and environmental conditions. Additionally, the review explores the idea of implementing PSCs with concentrated PV applications for higher efficiency and competitiveness.
Proceedings Paper
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Anurag Roy, Puja Ghosh, Parukuttyamma Sujatha Devi, Senthilarasu Sundaram, Tapas K. Mallick
Summary: Natural source derived carbon materials are ideal alternatives to costly Pt counter electrodes due to their good catalytic activity, resistance to iodine corrosion, and high device stability. BaSnO3 (BSO) has been proposed as an efficient alternative to the well-known photoanode TiO2. This study focuses on establishing BSO-carbon-based dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) devices, showing better photo-stability and extended device performance compared to TiO2-Pt-based DSSCs through the use of natural source derived carbon-based counter electrodes.
MATERIALS TODAY-PROCEEDINGS
(2021)
