Several research directions were explored:
Understanding Photochemical Activity of Porous Carbons Our research has been focused in understanding the mechanisms governing the carbon photoinduced reactions and the fate of the photoexcited states of the carbon atoms. Data has demonstrated the formation of radical species upon irradiation in the full UV-VIS spectrum, as well as their stabilization through reactions with other species confined in the pores.
Porous carbon catalysts for solar energy conversion. We have explored the application of photoresponsive porous carbons in transforming CO2 and H2O into sustainable fuels. As photoanodes for the photoreforming of H2O, remarkable photocurrents have been recorded for carbons with varied composition. A balance of both aspects is essential to prevent photocorrosion of the anodes upon long-term operation. In the photorreduction of CO2 we have obtained good results towards the conversion into CO+H2 or HCHO depending on the applied conditions.
Porous Carbons Additives in Photocatalytic Paints, for the degradation of indoor/outdoor pollutants. We have shown that the carbon matrix affects the dynamics of the charge transport, creating a percolation path for the majority carriers. Such photocatalytic paints are able to degrade the pollutants, with good long-term stability. A PhD thesis has been the focus on this activity.
Photoassisted Synthesis of Porous Carbons. We have investigated the use of light activation to promote the cross-linking of polymer precursors in the synthesis of porous carbons. By changing the chemistry of the precursor it is possible to control the porosity of the carbons. A PhD thesis has been the focus on this activity.
Implications of Nanopore Confinement at Extreme Conditions. A tight nanopore confinement of certain salts in porous carbons has been revealed to be critical to the performance of releasing thermal energy; such mixtures can compete with the best nanoenergetic materials in the market, with better safety performance. A PhD thesis has been the focus on this activity.
Photoluminescence of Porous Carbons. The photoluminescence of carbon materials has only been demonstrated for carbons with high electron mobility and degree of transparency. In PHOROSOL we have been able to measure light emission features in porous carbons, which has a significant impact on the development of sensors with improved sensitivity and selectivity.
Sensing performance of porous carbons. We have explored resistive gas sensors based on nanoporous carbons for detecting low concentration of toxic industrial gases. Our results have shown important modifications of the resistive character of the materials upon the confinement state of the gases on the nanopores, and modulation of the resistive response through photocarriers
Dissemination activities include publication in high impact peer-reviewed journals, participation in international conferences and events for the general audience, organization of meetings and conferences. These activities have involved all the members of the group. The results obtained have been published in high impact open access journals (Carbon, Advanced Science) and book chapters. A patent has also been filed.
