Materials of Reduced Dimensions for Efficient Light Harvesting and Energy conversion

The subject of this research proposal are different kind of materials (insulators, semiconductors, metals) with reduced dimensionalities (0-, 1-, and 2-dimensional) which possess high absorptivity of electromagnetic radiation in desired spectral range and high efficiency of energy conversion (light into light, light into electrical and light into chemical energy). Our aim is to synthesize nanomaterials with controlled size, shape and surface properties (quantum dots, nanorods and nanotubes, thin films) which can be used as a starting point for the development of optoelectronic devices, solar cells and fabrics with advanced properties. Special attention will be paid to: sesqui-oxides, silicates and titanates doped with rare earth elements for development of luminescent ceramics used in medical diagnostic equipment and coatings that can improve efficiency conversion in solar cells; surface modification of metal-oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles, synthesis of three-component chalcogenide quantum dots, as well as multi-component chalcogenides in order to develop a new generation of solar cells; and optimization of technological procedures for surface modification of fibers with noble metal and TiO2 nanoparticles that will have potential use as fabrics with antibacterial and antifungicidal properties, and self-cleaning effect as well.