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Content archived on 2024-06-18

Investigating the 2D Self-Assembly of Photo-sensitive Molecules on Semiconductor and Insulating Surfaces

Objective

The PHOTOSURF project will investigate self-assembled networks of photo-sensitive molecules formed at semiconductor and dielectric surfaces. The interaction between light and photo-sensitive dye molecules adsorbed on semiconductors plays a pivotal role in several renewable energy technologies: dye sensitised solar cells (DSSC) and the photo-catalytic production of solar fuels. In both of these applications the configuration of dyes with respect to each other and the underlying surface is a key factor in determining how efficiently solar energy is converted to either electricity or to green fuel sources. Knowledge of how the nanoscale organisation of molecules influences the operation of solar energy devices, coupled with an increased ability to control that organisation, will help to maximise the efficiency of such devices. Self-assembly is a process by which individual molecules can organise themselves into ordered and complex structures through simple intermolecular interactions. In recent years the formation of ordered molecular networks on surfaces using 2D self-assembly has been an area of intense research. PHOTOSURF will use concepts from the field of 2D molecular self-assembly to control the structural arrangement of photo-sensitive dye and catalyst molecules on semiconductor and dielectric surfaces. These molecular structures will then be investigated using a range of techniques including scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and scanning microwave microscopy (SMM). Such experiments will allow the project to study charge transfer, photo-catalysis and light harvesting effects at the level of individual dye molecules. From these studies we will gain a deeper fundamental understanding of how molecular orientation, bonding and arrangement influences these physical and optical processes. This knowledge will be vital to the future development of cost effective solar energy technologies.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

FP7-PEOPLE-2013-CIG
See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

MC-CIG - Support for training and career development of researcher (CIG)

Coordinator

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON
EU contribution
€ 100 000,00
Address
GOWER STREET
WC1E 6BT LONDON
United Kingdom

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Region
London Inner London — West Camden and City of London
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

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