Project description
Filling gaps in solar chemicals research
Solar chemicals are starting to play a continually bigger role as an ecologically safe energy source. Despite this and their capability for industrial and civilian use, the European industrial landscape has been lacking in research on solar chemicals. The EU-funded SOLAR2CHEM project aims to train 15 new researchers in state-of-the-art concepts and techniques with a focus on physical sciences to research on hybrid devices for producing solar chemicals. They will also take into account the environmental footprint in manufacturing, and promote the use of solar chemicals in both the European industry and the private sector.
Objective
SOLAR2CHEM will train 15 early stage researchers to fill the existing gap in the European industrial landscape in the area of solar chemicals production and usage in technical, economic and policy aspects. The consortium is formed by 12 beneficiaries including 9 academic and 3 non-academic organisations plus 8 partner organisations to cover a full training programme on scientific, technical and personal development skills which will include secondments in current world leading countries (Japan, US, Australia) to gather the necessary knowledge and implement it in Europe. The main objectives of the programme are i) to train 15 ESRs in state of the art concepts and techniques, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary knowledge on physical sciences (chemistry, physics, materials science and engineering), providing communication, leadership, management skills and solid professional connections; ii) to advance knowledge on hybrid devices for solar chemicals production focussing on novel molecules and materials exceeding current efficiencies and selectivity, while considering the environmental footprint based on materials availability and manufacturing process. Special attention will be given to state of the art characterisation techniques and modelling; and iii) to cover the promotion of solar chemicals within policy-makers and stakeholders, and the development of the private sector through communication to the general public. Strong links with industrial partners and technology transfer offices will ensure that the existing gap is filled.
Fields of science
Keywords
Programme(s)
Coordinator
H91 Galway
Ireland