James Madison University

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.