Nanostructured materials: laser/plasma based synthesis, nanohybridization and integration into photoactive devices

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Nanostructured materials constitute interesting building blocks for the design and construction of novel nanohybrid assemblies, particularly for enhanced solar energy harvesting and photo-conversion applications. Due to the nanometer size and the high surface area of their constituents along with the various possibilities to assemble them into different nanoarchitectures, the nanohybrids (NHs) exhibit new and often unexpected properties. The study and optimisation of the properties of these novel NHs will undoubtedly reinforce our capacity to use nanotechnology based solutions to innovate in many areas, including the strategic fields of solar energy conversion and water quality preservation. Central to this innovation is, on one hand, mastering the synthesis and assembly of these NHs and, on the other hand, fundamental understanding of the nanostructure-property inter-relationships of the NHs. In my group, we basically use powerful laser/plasma tools to decompose (at the atomic/molecular level) solid mater, under controlled experimental conditions, with the premeditated intent to guide its re-assembly into nanoscale entities with different architectures exhibiting completely new behaviors. Once formed, we have the required expertise to probe the nanostructure and properties of these novel NHs by means of state-of-the-art characterization techniques. The ultimate objective is to exploit the unique properties of NHs into innovative devices. By capitalizing on my expertise and successful research achievements, I will continue to lead an ambitious research program of which specific objectives are: (i) to synthesize novel NHs consisting of carbon nanotubes, silicon or TiO2  nanowires locally decorated with appropriate nanoparticles (Ag, Au, PbS, CZTS) by means of original plasma/laser processing strategies. Focus will be on the understanding of the growth/self-assembly mechanisms of these NHs, particularly in the non-equilibrium growth conditions of the plasma/laser processes; (ii) to study the structural and opto-electronic (OE) properties of these NHs in order to optimize their photo-conversion efficiency. Understanding the relationship between these OE properties and nanostructural characteristics of the NHs along with their associated photocharges dynamics is central to our research. This will also enable the exploitation of the full potential of these NHs into extremely-efficient solar cells and/or highly-effective photoanodes for water decontamination under direct sunlight; (iii) to capitalize on the first outcomes of this research to develop partnerships with Canadian industry; and most importantly (iv) to continue to excel in our primary mission of providing high-quality training to HQP in strategic areas (e.g., nanotechnology, clean energy, safe water) that will fuel up Canada's future economy and strengthen its international competitiveness.**