The goal of this study was to create graphene-TiO2 composite materials in order to make solar cell applications more efficient. Graphene provides unparalleled electron mobility which improves both charge transfer and can help resist electron-hole recombination, which is a factor in the low efficiency of solar cells. TiO2 is already a prominent photocatalyst with the capability to absorb a wide spectrum of solar radiation. By producing a stable graphene-TiO2 composite, the photocatalytic properties of TiO2 can be enhanced. The primary design constraint in this study is the band gap of TiO2. I have found that defect graphene sheets anchor TiO2 nanoclusters onto the graphene surface allowing charge transfer within the composite and improve the spectrum of light which can be absorbed.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Bukowski, Brandon Christopher

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-102813-172332

Advisor

• Deskins, N Aaron

Year

• 2013

Date created

• 2013-10-28

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Chemical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright