Sustainability is Trending: Discover ProHVer and the Secrets of Photoelectrodes for a Sustainable World!

• Grant number: 24/00539-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Journalism
• Start date: May 01, 2024
• End date: April 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Condensed Matter Physics
• Principal Investigator: André Luis de Jesus Pereira
• Grantee: Bárbara Maria Silva da Fonseca
• Host Institution: Divisão de Ciências Fundamentais (IEF). Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA). Ministério da Defesa (Brasil). São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/02994-2 - Green hydrogen project (ProHVer): photoelectrode study center aiming the sustainable generation of H2 fuel, AP.PNGP.PI

Abstract

One of the main challenges currently faced by humanity is the quest for carbon-free energy sources, i.e., clean and renewable. Among the possible alternatives, the use of molecular H2 as fuel stands out for its higher efficiency compared to petroleum derivatives and, primarily, for being environmentally sustainable. However, since the process of H2 generation also needs to be clean, efficient, and economically viable, many research groups worldwide are currently seeking to study and improve techniques that meet these requirements. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) production of H2 fuel through the water oxidation reaction (WOR) process using sunlight is one of the methods with the greatest potential for practical applications. However, some challenges still need to be overcome for this technology to be applied on a large scale. Among these challenges, the search for new semiconductor materials to be used as photoelectrodes in PEC cells is prominent. In this context, the project titled "GREEN HYDROGEN PROJECT (ProHVer): CENTER FOR STUDIES OF PHOTOELECTRODES AIMING AT THE SUSTAINABLE GENERATION OF H2 FUEL," approved in the Initial Project call (PI - proc. no 2022/02994-2), aims to create a research line within the Plasma and Processes Laboratory (LPP-ITA) dedicated to the study of thin films of semiconductor materials applied as photoelectrodes in PEC cells. ProHVer will focus on systematically analyzing the properties of various types of materials and understanding how they affect H2 production through PEC processes. This understanding will enable the optimization of both the growth parameters of these films and the architecture of PEC cells. Within this context, the present project aims to promote the dissemination of research activities developed within the ProHVer project using short reel-type videos. The scientific outreach initiative through short reel-type videos is strategic to expand the reach and impact of the project. With 15 planned videos, addressing challenges in the research to future perspectives, the goal is not only to share knowledge with the community but also to attract new talents to academic research. This modern and accessible approach will contribute to sparking interest and engagement from a diverse audience, establishing "ProHVer" as a reference in the pursuit of sustainable solutions in H2 generation.