Project Title:
The study of thin-film materials for solar hydrogen production (photoelectrolysis).
Project Team:
- Dr. Keith Holland (Department of Engineering)
- Dr. David Lawrence (ISAT)
- Brandon Journell (Engineering, ‘12)
- Milan Patel (New River Community College, ’11))
Project Description:
Working closely with Dr. David Lawrence and Dr. Keith Holland, Brandon Journell, (’13) and Milan Patel (New River Valley Community College, ’11) studied the properties of novel thin-film materials to produce hydrogen from water when exposed to sunlight (photoelectrolysis). Working in the clean room facility, Milan prepared material samples from a variety of precursor solutions using an ultrasonic spray pyrolysis technique. The light absorption characteristics of the samples were analyzed through UV/VIS spectroscopy and the morphology of the samples were characterized with a scanning electron microscope. Brandon studied the effects of various chemical dopants and dopant concentrations on the electrical and photoelectrolytic properties of thin film materials by exposing them to a simulated solar light source and measuring the generated photocurrent. Both projects investigated materials with potential to advance photoelectrochemical hydrogen production capabilities and next generation solar photovoltaic cells.
Announcements
- August 20-21
Residence halls open for freshmen on assigned days. - August 23
Opening Faculty Meeting.
Freshman Assessment Day.
Residence halls open for transfer and international students. - August 24
Residence halls open for returning students. - August 26
Classes begin.
