Rational Design of Nanocomposites as Efficient Catalysts for Hydrogen Production and CO2 Conversion into Valuable Fuels using Sun Light

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

*** The global energy crisis and environmental problems urgently require an intense search for alternative sustainable energy sources to replace the fossil fuels. Despite the fossil fuels are unparallel to any other existing energy sources, the consumption of fossil fuels leads to their depletion, and more importantly, it leads to environmental issues such as greenhouse effect like never ever before, especially, the current scenario of mass consumption and population is concerned. Therefore, it is more feasible to identify a technology which is eco-friendly in both production and consumption phases of the energy along with the environmental concerns. In this context, “photocatalysis” can be ideal as it offers a simultaneous energy production and environmental remediation. For instance, hydrogen can be directly produced through the splitting of water molecules using photocatalyst and similarly, a photocatalyst can also convert CO2 into useful hydrocarbon fuels such as CH4 and CH3OH. In addition, the activation of the photocatalyst is also economically and environmentally viable as it can be activated under direct sunlight. It is, therefore, the photocatalysis can be a versatile tool and a DREAM TECHNOLOGY to address such issues.**** Considering these scenarios in Canada as well as worldwide, there are industries fully dedicated to the development of such technology. Though the industries are the technology makers, they should be supported and equipped with academic scientific research, which is the backbone for any technology to manifest. Accordingly, this proposal proposes the development of nanoscale hybrid photocatalytic novel materials for the eco-friendly production of H2 as well as the production of hydrocarbon fuels through CO2 reduction. This proposal aims to bridge the academic research with industries to accomplish the “Laboratory to Market” strategy.**** More importantly, this proposal in-lines with the initiatives of Canada in addressing the said issues. This project helps Canada's goals to address the greenhouse gas emission by providing the pathways towards a decarbonization of the petrochemicals and enabling the renewable energy and technologies. Further, the scientific and technological outcomes of this proposed project would represent Canada for its contribution to the world in pursuit of energy and environmental remediation. In a broader context, this proposal concerns the health care, environment, and energy that required for the human well-being on the planet.******