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Investigating Morphological Effects on Charge-Carrier Dynamics and Surface Active Sites in Ferrite Thin Films using Time-Resolved Photoluminescence Spectroscopy and Surface Titration Techniques

Project description

How ferrite thin-film morphology affects charge-carrier dynamics and surface-active sites

With support from the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PROSCOPY project aims to optimise CO2 photoelectric conversion technologies by resolving uncertainties in the dynamics and surface activity of Z-scheme catalytic powders and films. It will study the synthesis and behaviour of thin film titania/ferrite Z-scheme materials to decipher how their morphology influences charge-carrier dynamics and surface-active sites, focusing on CO2 reduction performance in photoelectrochemical cells. To do so, it will employ time-resolved photoluminescence and electron paramagnetic resonance techniques to identify how morphological variations impact charge-carrier behaviour, while surface titration methods will be used to pinpoint active redox sites in Z-scheme photoelectric catalysts. Results could lead to breakthroughs in the renewable energy-driven production of sustainable chemicals.

Objective

This proposal seeks to explore the synthesis and characterization of thin film titania/ferrite Z-scheme materials, with an emphasis on elucidating the impact of morphology on charge carrier dynamics and surface active sites, thereby unraveling its influence on CO2 reduction performance in a photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell. The kinetics of electron and hole pairs in ferrite films will be investigated through time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques, providing insights into how morphological variations affect charge carrier behavior. Surface titration methods will be employed to identify active redox sites in the Z-scheme photo(electro)catalysts. The films will be synthesized using dip coating, spray coating, and spin coating techniques, and the relationship between fabrication methods and surface electronic properties will be established. Additionally, the correlation between PEC performance, charge carrier dynamics, and surface active sites of ferrite films will be thoroughly examined. This project seeks to enhance the efficiency of CO2 photo(electro)conversion technologies by bridging critical knowledge gaps in the real-time dynamics and surface activity of Z-scheme catalytic powders and films, with a focus on their synthesis and performance. Successful outcomes could pave the way for significant advances in the renewable energy-driven production of sustainable chemicals, making a meaningful contribution to climate change mitigation efforts.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITEIT ANTWERPEN
Net EU contribution
€ 216 240,00
Address
PRINSSTRAAT 13
2000 Antwerpen
Belgium
Region
Vlaams Gewest Prov. Antwerpen Arr. Antwerpen
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data

Partners (1)