scholarly journals A Novel Self-Assembly Strategy for the Fabrication of Nano-Hybrid Satellite Materials with Plasmonically Enhanced Catalytic Activity

Nanomaterials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 1580
Author(s):  
Gareth Morris ◽  
Ioritz Sorzabal-Bellido ◽  
Matthew Bilton ◽  
Karl Dawson ◽  
Fiona McBride ◽  
...  

The generation of hydrogen from water using light is currently one of the most promising alternative energy sources for humankind but faces significant barriers for large-scale applications due to the low efficiency of existing photo-catalysts. In this work we propose a new route to fabricate nano-hybrid materials able to deliver enhanced photo-catalytic hydrogen evolution, combining within the same nanostructure, a plasmonic antenna nanoparticle and semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). For each stage of our fabrication process we probed the chemical composition of the materials with nanometric spatial resolution, allowing us to demonstrate that the final product is composed of a silver nanoparticle (AgNP) plasmonic core, surrounded by satellite Pt decorated CdS QDs (CdS@Pt), separated by a spacer layer of SiO2 with well-controlled thickness. This new type of photoactive nanomaterial is capable of generating hydrogen when irradiated with visible light, displaying efficiencies 300% higher than the constituting photo-active components. This work may open new avenues for the development of cleaner and more efficient energy sources based on photo-activated hydrogen generation.

Author(s):  
Mark Maslin

‘Solutions’ examines three types of solution to climate change. The first is adaptation, which is simply providing protection for the population, as we already know that there will be climate change even if emissions are radically cut back to 1990 levels. Second is mitigation, which would involve cutting our carbon footprint and thus reversing the trend that currently exists of ever increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuels need to be replaced with renewable or alternative energy sources that will not produce greenhouse gas emissions. Third is geoenginnering that involves large-scale extraction of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere or modification of the global climate.


2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (5) ◽  
pp. 885-904
Author(s):  
M.E. Frai

Subject. The article discusses limited sources of energy nowadays and an ongoing survey of new ones. I focus on fuel and energy complexes worldwide and in Russia. Objectives. The study is to analyze the future use of alternative energy sources in the fuel and energy complex nationwide and worldwide. I review the existing energy sources of the fuel and energy complex in the global and regional markets, specifically the alternative ones. Methods. The study relies upon methods of statistics, analysis and systems approach. Results. The article demonstrates that the fuel and energy complex strongly depends on the current situation in the energy resource market, which is difficult to forecast. If we continue relying on traditional energy resources, we get exposed to some risks affecting the sustainable development of the economy. Russia should diversify the power engineering sector by developing alternative energy sources. The article sets forth the economic rationale for alternative sources and key steps Russia shall make. Conclusions and Relevance. Considering the current situation in the energy balance, alternative energy is what any advanced society seeks for, being supported by manufacturers, governmental institutions, and researchers, though low profitability and high infrastructure costs impede its development. In Russia, these challenges are even more palpable. However, even now Russia is able to find alternative energy solutions. In addition to advantages of alternative energy, which is globally proclaimed, they will also help Russia diversify and update the economic system.


2006 ◽  
Vol 5 (3) ◽  
pp. 471-486
Author(s):  
Andrius Plepys ◽  
Jean-Philippe Boutin ◽  
Giulia Gervasoni ◽  
Robert Hlep ◽  
Kristin Seyboth ◽  
...  

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