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Overview
Overview
Dr. Race’s team conducts research in the area of hybrid nano-electronic materials and structures. This work takes the form of both experimental and theoretical studies involving unique combinations of semiconductors, conductors, insulators, and other inorganic and organic materials. Using a range of characterization techniques from in-house custom-designed apparatus to high-performance computational analysis, the NEST Lab seeks to discover the nanoscale electro-optical behavior of materials whose technological development will be the basis for next-generation electronic devices. The following are representative of NEST Lab research projects.
two-Dimensional (2d) Materials
two-Dimensional (2d) Materials
As crystalline structures noted for their one to only a few atoms in thickness in the z-direction, 2D materials1 have sparked the interest of researchers due to their unique electrical, optical, and even mechanical properties. One such 2D material is molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) and an indirect bandgap material in its bulk form. However, when synthesized in its 2D form, MoS2 transforms into a 2D direct bandgap semiconductor. NEST Lab researchers study novel methods of thin film deposition of MoS2 and other low-dimensional structures onto silicon and compound semiconductor substrates. This work applies to technological and commercial development in areas such as flexible electronics, sensors, biomedical applications, and quantum computing.
M: Transition Metal
X: Chalcogen family
MoS2 : MX2
Battery Energy Storage
Battery Energy Storage
NEST Lab researchers investigate, both theoretically and experimentally, the materials and physio-chemical mechanisms needed for energy storage in the still relatively new concept of the proton battery (PB). The protons employed in these processes are hydrogen ions (H+), the smallest and therefore potentially fastest charge carrier between the anode and cathode of a PB. Using a microporous crystalline matrix in an aqueous environment as a “molecular sieve,” H+ transport charge via the Grotthus mechanism (Fig. 1). The NEST team is working to develop prototype PBs (Fig. 2). Theoretical studies are conducted using high-performance computers accessible via LSU’s Center for Computation and Technology (CCT). Experimental work consists of in-house fabrication and testing of device components and operational behavior. Due to the theoretical predictions and ongoing experimental demonstrations of faster charging times, higher energy storage (kWh), temperature resistance, and cycle life compared to traditional batteries, proton batteries have applications to electric grid security, portable electronics, and off-grid backup power for remote locations.
Fig. 1: Grotthuss transfer of H+ through water.
Fig. 2: NEST lab fabrication and prototype components.
Customized characterization
Customized characterization
NEST Lab researchers pride themselves on being able to make a lot out of a little. In addition to using commercially manufactured tools, such as an atomic force microscope (AFM) and a fluorescence spectrometer, lab members have engineered experimental instrumentation tailored to each project as needed. Examples include an in-lab constructed electrophoretic deposition system for thin-film formation as well as an electrospray apparatus for sample coating. As a result, NEST Lab customized characterization tools have been used to make first-time observations of electrical behavior in unique nanoscale specimens while supporting ongoing innovation in theoretical analysis, sample processing, and device prototype fabrication.
undergraduate Research
undergraduate Research
In addition to the work of outstanding graduate students in pursuit of master’s and PhDs, the NEST Lab supports discovery, innovation, and the hands-on education of engineering undergraduate researchers. Through PRISE (Preparing Resilient Individuals to Succeed in Engineering), a highly selective National Science Foundation-funded‡ program led by Dr. Race, Dr. Jennifer Curry, and Ms. Adrienne Steele, summer undergraduate researchers “joined the NEST.” These students worked on interdisciplinary projects ranging from complex apparatus assessment and rebuilds, to developing user protocols and expertise in materials characterization (e.g., nanoscale surface microscopy, optical spectroscopy), to studies in scientific communication via digital and social media.
‡ Division of Undergraduate Education within NSF’s Directorate for STEM Education
PUBLICATIONS
Visit Dr. Race's Google Scholar Page
More Publications available by request - Dr. Daniels-Race has over 100 combined refereed journal and conference publications along with numerous invited presentations of her research.
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