Energy Materials and Devices
Solar harvesting nanomaterials
Solar harvesting nanomaterials are ubiquitously used in renewable energy applications, in which the solar-to-thermal energy conversion efficiency is substantially vital. To adapt to other seniors where other functions, e.g., self-cleaning and visible transparency, are required, the spectral selectivity is ought to be tuned by additional surface treatments. We report a superhydrophobic selective surface constructed with a hierarchical architecture to enable stable superhydrophobicity and high-efficiency solar-thermal conversion. The surface spectral selectivity is deliberately designed to maximize solar harvesting while minimizing the thermal re-radiation loss. The superhydrophobicity enables a strong self-cleaning ability that is beneficial for dust replellancy. We also develop a highly transparent, photothermally selective coating, providing a high visible transmittance and high absorption of ultraviolet and near-infrared light.
Related publications:
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W. Ma, Y. Li, C. Chao, C. Tso, B. Huang*, W. Li*, S. Yao*, 2021, “Solar-assisted icephobicity down to -60 °C with superhydrophobic selective surfaces,” Cell Reports Physical Science, 2(3), p.100384. (*Corresponding author)
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W. Li, C. Lin, W. Ma, Y. Li, B. Huang, S. Yao, 2021, “Transparent Selective Photothermal Coatings for Antifogging Applications,” Cell Reports Physical Science, 2(5), 100435.
Thermochromic Smart Windows
Buildings account for 40% of global energy consumption, while windows are the least energy-efficient part of buildings. Conventional smart windows only regulate solar transmission. For the first time, we design an all-weather thermochromic window for solar and thermal regulation. Solar transmission is passively tuned and switched between high and low temperatures, controlling the incident solar irradiance. Meanwhile, the mid-infrared transmittance is also passively tuned to reflect or transmit the indoor thermal radiation, and thereby the indoor thermal loss is reduced.
Related publications:
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C.Lin, J. Hur, C. Chao, C. Tso, G. Liu, S. Yao*, W. Li*, B. Huang*, 2022, All-weather thermochromic windows for synchronous solar and thermal radiation regulation, Science Advances, 8 (17), eabn7359. (*Corresponding author)
Selective Solar Harvesting Windows for Full-Spectrum Utilization
A selective solar harvesting window is designed as a photovoltaic-thermal collecting system coupled with a ventilation system to extract heat for indoor use. The integration of the transparent photovoltaic and transparent solar absorber enables a dual-band selectivity for full-spectrum solar utilization, opening up a new avenue for the development of energy-efficient buildings.
Related publications:
W. Li#, C. Lin#, G Huang, J. Jur, Y. Li, B. Huang*, S. Yao*, 2022, Selective Solar Harvesting Windows for Full-Spectrum Utilization, Advanced Science, 2022, 2201738.
Biocompatible Radiative Cooling Materials for Agriculture applications
Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) involves spontaneously cooling a surface by reflecting sunlight and radiating heat to the cold outer space. Current PDRC designs are promising alternatives to electrical cooling but are either inefficient or have limited applicability. Considering the environmental impact of the paints, we avoid using environmentally hazardous pigments that eventually run off into the environment, or toxic solvents like acetone during the preparation of paints. Therefore, we will develop a biocompatible porous polymer paint that is scalable and effective, and then spray the paint on the foldable shade. To contribute to environment and energy sustainability, we need to choose eco-friendly polymer variants and enhance the durability of paints to reduce their release into the environment.
C.Lin, etc., Attenuating the impact of global warming and water scarcity on sustainable agriculture via a biodegradable radiative cooling mulch, submitted to Nature Sustainability.
Bubble dynamics and mass transport enhancement in water electrolysis
