Research Projects

Solar energy is expected to increase by at least two-fold by mid-decade due to economic growth and population growth. However, stabilizing the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is challenging and demanding. The proposed study aims to re-evaluate the molecular details of energy-trapping chemical reactions mimicking natural photosynthesis, focusing on artificial photosynthesis-based green route methods for the generation of biofuels and solar fine chemicals for various industries. Currently, few research groups are working on solar energy conservation, and artificial photosynthesis is not yet explored in developing countries. The core agenda is to design integrated photocatalytic tools based on hybrid nanocomposites for solar light-driven hydrogen production, CO2 conversion, and organic transformations. The goal is to suggest the stability, durability, and cost-effectiveness of developed hydrogen gas for commercial applications in automotive and other industries. The study will collaborate with research organizations and local composites manufacturing industries to ensure the commercial application is cost-effective, feasible, and durable. Private partners in craft, fuel, and automobile manufacturers will be involved to meet the needs of society. IIT Kanpur, CIPET, and IIT Delhi have recently worked in related research areas. The study focuses on highly efficient light harvesting materials and various synthetic methods/techniques, including thermal evaporation, hydrothermal methods, condensation methods, click chemistry methods, various coupling methods, and sol-gel methods. The developed material could be sent to industries/government departments for evaluating the feasibility of mass production for its application in society, trade, and stackholder interest.