Synchrotrons have revolutionised materials science.
The many applications of the technology are too numerous and varied to summarise in a few sentences.
New Zealand researchers are undertaking ground-breaking materials science research, particularly for more efficient energy applications.
Energy efficient electronics using Skyrmions >> New technologies that reduce the energy use of electronics have significant economic potential for both New Zealand and Australia. Skyrmions are structural lattices that can be driven by external stimuli and provide a platform for low energy electronics.
Square nanotubes for advanced sensing and catalysis applications >> Square nanotubes show promise for use in batteries, catalysis and even molecular machines or nanoscale syringes for targeted drug delivery. The research team developed a scalable method for producing square tin oxide nanotube arrays, which are expected to be useful for gas/chemical sensing and catalytic applications.
Green mining of rare earth elements using algae >> Many devices rely on rare earth elements, which are difficult and environmentally harmful to extract. The research team investigated how microalgae were able to extract and separate the rare earth elements gadolinium and cerium from environmental phosphorous. This finding opens the doors to more sustainable methods of rare earth mining and can be used to remove phosphorous from wastewater.
An improved electrocatalyst for greater sustainability >> Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide into high-value chemicals or fuels is a promising way to store renewable energy sources. The research team synthesised and tested phosphine-capped gold clusters for improved catalysis.
Developing white light-emitting diodes with high quantum efficiency and thermal stability >> Energy efficient white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) have a wide range of applications due to their long lifespan. This research resulted in a superior WLED phosphor with enhanced thermal stability, potentially improving the performance and longevity of the diodes.
A new electrocatalyst for renewable energy >> Energy conversion devices like fuel cells need catalysts. Platinum-based catalysts perform well but are scarce and expensive. Recently, Fe-N-C catalysts have emerged as promising alternatives. The researchers designed a new Fe-N-C catalyst that performs well, is cost-effective and simple. These significant advantages could help the transition to sustainable energy solutions.
Cost-effective alternative catalysts for fuel cells >> Fuel cells play a critical role in decarbonizing our economy. Rechargeable metal-air batteries rely on the oxygen reduction reaction at the cathode for energy conversion. The research developed a high-performing iron-based catalyst that can be produced at largescale for fuel cell oxygen reduction reaction.
Unlocking potential new materials for clean energy >> Researchers are constantly looking for new ways to store and use energy more efficiently. One promising avenue involves hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs). However, a lot of questions remain about how they work. The researchers found distinctive infrared signals that reveal details about the function of HOF channels, which will help design more efficient and sustainable energy technologies.
Testing geometrically frustrated materials for improved semiconductors >> In integrated circuits, memory devices, solar cells and wearable devices, the utility of semiconductors stems from unique electrical properties that can be modified through elemental substitution. This research demonstrated successful synthesis of new geometrically frustrated materials for improved semiconductor applications.
