Our Research

Introduction

Looming energy crisis and escalating climate changes mandate the shift to sustainable energy resources with net-zero emissions. In this scenario material science emerges as a crucial player in developing sustainable and clean energy solutions. Topological quantum materials (TQMs), a new class of materials, are mainly characterized by their unique surface states and unique transport properties. The novel transport properties of TQMs hold enormous promises for sustainable energy applications.

Topological Quantum Materials (TQMs)

▪ Robust surface states - Surface modification is not allowed

▪ High carrier mobility - Scattering less transport along the surface

M. Samanta* et al., Adv. Energy Mater. 2023, 13, 2300503

Topological Quantum Materials and Catalysis

Topological Quantum Materials (TQM) with robust surface states and high carrier mobility are expected to facilitate charge transfer between the catalyst and the adsorbate, offering an excellent podium to design high performance catalysts.

• Correlation of Topological Surface States with Catalysis (HER, OER, CO2RR)

• Topological Nanomaterials for Catalysis

• TQM/COF Hybrid Materials for Photocatalysis

• Chiral Topological Semimetals as Spin Polarized Catalysts

Topological Quantum Materials and Thermoelectrics

Thermoelectric effect is direct conversion of temperature gradient into electrical voltage or vice versa. Decoupling of electrical and thermal transport is essential for thermoelectrics.

Exceptional electronic properties such as high carrier mobility and unique band structure of TQM make them appealing for thermoelectric applications.

Our approach is to look for topological materials with unique crystal structure/layered structure.

M. Samanta et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2018, 140, 5866

M. Samanta et al., Angew. Chemie. Int. Ed., 2020, 59, 4822

M. Samanta et al., Chem. Mater. 2020, 32, 8819

Solid State Chemistry of Modular Metal Chalcogenides

Chemical Design: Phase Homology

A phase homology is a series of structures built on the same structural principle with certain modules expanding in various dimensions by regular increments.

Layered Homologous Compounds: Compound generating machine

(M2)m(M2X3)n (M = V, X = VI) Homologous Series;

(AX2)m(M2X3)n (A = IV, M = V, X = VI) Intergrowth Series

M. Samanta et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2018, 140, 5866

M. Samanta et al., J. Mater. Chem. A 2020, 8, 12226-12261

Page updated

Report abuse