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Our research philosophy is that technological breakthroughs are underpinned by advances in the fundamental understanding of any chemical system. Hence, a major component in all our research projects is to uncover the underlying chemical principles that govern how a system operates, especially how its properties and functions are affected by its atomic/molecular structure. We also emphasise scientific rigor in our research: all members are trained in correct experimental techniques, understand the limitations of each methodologies, and can critically assess research results to draw the likeliest conclusions.
In addition to training in technical skills, we aim to instil in all research students the spirit of a sense of learning independence and scientific curiosity, in accordance with the University's motto 窮理致知: intellectual development through the lifelong exploration of knowledge,.
Tri-/heptazine molecular materials
Tri-/heptazine molecular materials
Triazine and heptazine are the building blocks of the class of materials known as graphitic carbon nitride. Due to their photoelectrochemical activity, these materials have been widely studied for applications covering solar energy conversion and storage. However, much still remains unknown about these materials as they are difficult to investigate using conventional characterisation methods, making rational material design a difficult prospect.
This project takes a molecular approach to understanding the origin of their many interesting photochemical and electrochemical properties by preparing structurally well-defined materials. Delineating their structure-property-function relationships is expected to lead to improvement in photocatalysis and electrocatalysis, broaden their scope of applicability, and possibly enable new chemical technologies in solar-energy conversion, batteries, and catalytic processes.
Skills taught for research students: • synthesis of tri-/heptazine molecules and materials • characterization methodologies for molecules and materials • catalytic reactions • electrochemical characterisation and reactions • photochemical reactions • battery chemistry
Hole transport for solar cells
Hole transport for solar cells
Organic perovskites have been recently demonstrated to be a promising material for photovoltaic application, potentially superseding silicon as the most efficient solar cell material. Nevertheless, the real-world applicability of these perovskites is limited by their instability and low efficiency for interfacial charge transfer. Together with our collaborators in the Electric Engineering and Chemical Engineering Departments, this project aims to develop new molecules that stabilises the perovskite through surface passivation, but enhances charge extraction through intermolecular interactions.
Skills taught for research students: • molecular synthesis • characterization methodologies for small molecules and their chemical properties • electrochemical characterisation for charge transfer • photo-/electrochemistry
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