Abstract Scope |
Composite nanostructures can be applied for energy harvesting and generation of solar fuels. In photodetectors, excitonic solar cells, and (photo)-electrochemical cells to produce solar fuels, nanomaterials can play a critical role in boosting photoconversion efficiency by ameliorating the processes of charge photogeneration, exciton dissociation, and charge transport. Specifically, the structure of the interface determines the electronic configuration of semiconducting composites. Several strategies can be pursued to modify the interface of composite systems, aiming to maximize energy harvesting and storage, including broadening light absorbance, fastening exciton dissociation and charge injection, reducing charge recombination. Examples will include coaxial p-n junction nanowires, core-shell quantum dots, composite sulfides for hydrogen generation, and low bandgap semiconductor for selective solar absorption. Emphasis will be given to the role of interface engineering in different systems, spanning from electric power generation from Sunlight to chemical fuel production, to conversion of heat lost through thermoelectric materials. |