Investigating the Synergistic Effect of Light-Inducing and Ultrasonication on the Decoration of Single Atoms on TiO2 Nanosheets for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation

The project aims to advance clean energy technologies by addressing critical challenges in photocatalytic hydrogen generation using TiO2 nanomaterials. While TiO2 demonstrates strong photocatalytic abilities, harnessing solar energy for renewable energy production, it faces obstacles such as high recombination rates and slow kinetics for hydrogen evolution, necessitating the use of metal cocatalysts. Single-atom (SA) decorated catalysts show promise in enhancing efficacy and reducing system costs. This project focuses on two atomic-scale defect engineering techniques sonochemical and light-induced methods to decorate TiO2 nanosheets with single Pt atoms, increasing hydrogen generation rates. These methods create surface-exposed atomic-scale defects conducive to SA deposition, enabling efficient hydrogen production. The project’s outcomes are poised to propel sustainable energy technology, addressing challenges in clean energy production and promoting societal and environmental well-being. By sharing data and publishing papers resulting from this project, the University of Alberta and the University of Siegen can establish themselves as key players in the renewable energy industry, contributing to its development.

Faculty Supervisor:

Shiva Mohajernia

Student:

Partner:

Universität Siegen

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Green/Alternative Energy; Energy and Utilities; Nanotechnology

University:

University of Alberta

Program: