The development of advanced devices for solar energy conversion is critical to addressing global energy demands and environmental challenges. This research focuses on two main applications:
i) photoelectrochemical hydrogen production via water splitting and ii) solar-driven waste valorization coupled with the generation of valuable chemicals. In the first application, semiconductor-based photoelectrochemical cells are employed to harness sunlight and split water molecules, producing clean hydrogen fuel. This process hinges on the efficiency and stability of the semiconductor materials, which must effectively absorb solar energy, generate charge carriers, and sustain the chemical reactions over time.

The second device application explores the potential of using solar energy for waste valorization, where sunlight drives chemical reactions that convert waste products into valuable chemicals. This can be achieved through hydrogenation reactions, which add hydrogen to unsaturated compounds, or oxidation reactions, where waste molecules are oxidized with the simultaneous production of hydrogen. These processes not only contribute to waste reduction but also offer a sustainable pathway for producing chemicals that are vital for various industries.

This research aims to enhance the performance of these solar-driven devices by developing novel materials, device designs, and optimizing reaction conditions, ultimately contributing to the transition toward sustainable and clean energy technologies.