Under the paradigm of nanotechnology many new materials and devices can be envisioned that may be able to solve or ameliorate many of our current energy problems. However the science necessary to understand the nanoscale processes involved and the engineering necessary to develop new nanomaterials and devices is still in its infancy. As a result, we are focused on developing the understanding of fundamental physical, chemical, and biomolecular processes involved in assembling nanomaterials and devices. Using this approach we are developing nanomaterials and processes to improve: (1) photovoltaic devices that cleanly and inexpensively convert sunlight into electricity, (2) thermoelectric devices that can efficiently harness waste heat, (3) catalytic processes that are used to create high value products, (4) hydrogen production and utilization that may enable a hydrogen economy based on this clean burning fuel, and (5) the sequestration and remediation of environmental pollutants.

In order to achieve these goals, it is the group's mission to train a diverse group of innovative engineering scientists who: (1) have clarity of objective and action, (2) produce creative, pioneering, quality research, and (3) write high impact publications.

Research Overview

Funding

• U.S. National Science Foundation CAREER Award (0134255-CTS)
• U.S. National Science Foundation MRI (0321118-CTS)
• U.S. Department of Energy (Office of Basic Energy Sciences)
• The Shreve Trust (Purdue University)