Project Info
Silicon clathrates for Photovoltaic Applications
Carolyn Koh
ckoh@mines.edu
Reuben Collins
rtcollin@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Silicon clathrates are 3D crystalline solids with unique structure-properties, that could lead to the next generation photovoltaic solar cells. To realize the potential of these novel materials high-quality thin films with empty silicon cages are required. The goal of this project is to investigate the structure and properties of silicon clathrate thin films using molecular spectroscopy and electron microscopy tools.
The team will meet weekly (physics, chem. eng.) to discuss research updates with the MURF student, along with graduate students, and faculty. The MURF student will interact with other grad students several times a week.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Make solar energy economical.
Krishna L, Koh CA. Inorganic and methane clathrates: Versatility of guest–host compounds for energy harvesting. MRS Energy & Sustainability. 2015;2:E8. doi:10.1557/mre.2015.9
Isolated alternative crystalline silicon phase could lead to improved solar cell performance. Scilight: vol. 2021, no. 45 https://pubs.aip.org/aip/sci/article/2021/45/451110/365399/Isolated-alternative-crystalline-silicon-phase
Primary Contacts:
Carolyn Koh, ckoh@mines.edu
Reuben Collins, rtcollin@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Basic physics, materials understanding.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5 hrs/week
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Physics and chemistry of silicon materials for photovoltaic applications. Si clathrate structure analysis using Raman spectroscopy, Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
MENTORING PLAN
Weekly meetings with faculty advisors and ~daily interactions with the grad research student & Postdoc co-mentors.
Preferred Student Status
Sophomore
Junior