Harvesting hot carriers in heterojunctions of p-type semiconductors and plasmonic nanoparticles for green hydrogen production and utilization

This project aims to pursue alternate methods to generate green hydrogen that are less energy-intensive than existing approaches. Leveraging the fact that semiconductors generate electron-hole pairs when illuminated with light and this electron reduces proton (H+) from water to form hydrogen (H2), our goal is to use novel p-type semiconductors to produce green hydrogen, that leaves behind no waste. Adopting semiconductor physics behind this, heterojunctions of p-type semiconductors and transition metal nitrides (TMNs) will be formed that help in charge transfer and enhanced light absorption. TMNs possess plasmonic properties, similar to coinage metals (gold, silver, copper), that says they can absorb visible light when irradiated. TMNs are a special class of plasmons that are inexpensive, have high conductivity and stability and have elongated photogenerated-carrier lifetimes than noble/coinage metal plasmons such as gold and silver. Therefore, the project aligns with the Hydrogen Strategy of Canada and National Hydrogen Strategy, Singapore that aim to achieve net-zero carbon emission by 2050. It also supports the carbon capture program by using the atmospheric CO2 with green hydrogen to generate methane- a widely used fuel. The project also gives an opportunity to both countries and institutions to enhance mutual cooperation in research and community development.

Faculty Supervisor:

Karthik Shankar

Student:

Partner:

Nanyang Technological University

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Alberta

Program: