Broadening photon absorption into the near infrared (NIR) range represents a unique opportunity of improving the use of solar energy in various fields, including but not limited to solar fuel, solar cells and solar-enabled photo-degradation of pollutants. It is however challenging to realize this goal as most of traditional materials, such as dyes and semiconductors, do not absorb NIR lights efficiently. Recent advances of nanomaterials opens a new door in this research theme. In this talk, I will present some of our recent work on the design and synthesis of NIR absorbing materials, such as upconverting nanoparticles, plasmonic nanostructure with strong NIR plasmons, NIR absorbing quantum dots and two-dimensional black phosphorous, and on their combination with semiconductors for extending photon absorption into the NIR range for application in solar fuel and photocatalysis [1-8]. Rational design of hybrid nanomaterials, which is the key to maximize the benefits from respective nano-components, is highlighted.

References:

1. Am. Chem. Soc., 2013, 135, 9616; 2. Adv. Funct. Mater., 2019, under review; 3. Adv. Energy Mater. 2018, 1703658; 4. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2018, 1706235; 5. ACS Catalysis, 2017, 7, 6225; 6. Adv. Funct. Mater, 2015, 25, 2950; 7. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2015, 25, 6650; 8. Nanoscale Horizons, 2019, DOI: 10.1039/C8NH00373D