Nick Wu
The Physics & Astronomy Colloquium Series presents Nick Wu of the West Virginia University on “Plasmon-Enhanced Solar Energy Harvesting” on Friday, April 18, at 4:10 p.m. in Walter 245.
Abstract: Solar energy can be converted either to electric energy via photovoltaics or to chemical energy via photocatalysts. Emerging of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) provides a new opportunity to develop high-efficiency solar energy devices. This talk will present our effort on fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanism of plasmon-enhanced solar energy harvesting. In particular, the speech will discuss our newly discovered plasmon-induced resonant energy transfer (PIRET) mechanism in the metal-semiconductor heterojunctions. Plasmonic metal nanostructures can absorb light and convert the photon’s energy to the plasmonic energy.The discovery of plasmonic photo-sensitizers has opened a new avenue to develop efficient photocatalysts and solar cells. This talk will demonstrate our effort on development of effective plasmonic metal-semiconductor heterojunctions to enable strong coupling between the plasmonic metal and the semiconductor.
Upcoming Spring 2014 Events
Colloquia are held in the Walter Hall, Room 245, on Fridays at 4:10 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Departmental Awards Gathering on Friday, April 25, at 4:10 p.m. in Walter 245.
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