Liquid phase synthesis of atomically thin MoSe2 and their applications in energy conversion and storage
File(s)
Author(s)
Cheng, Gang
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Nowadays, we are facing the serious energy crisis and environmental challenges due to the over-reliance on fossil fuels. The search for sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions has become more urgent than ever. In this context, this research contributes to the cutting-edge development in energy conversion and storage by investigating the liquid-phase synthesis of MoSe2, photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution using MoSe2 and photo rechargeable sodium ion battery using MoSe2 as anode materials.
In this study, we have explored the synthesis, characterization, and energy applications of MoSe2, WSe2, and their heterostructures. We revealed that certain MoSe2/WSe2 ratios exhibit superior catalytic performance for photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction. The heterostructures proved to suppress charge recombination efficiently, allowing for novel electrode designs. Furthermore, we fabricated a photo rechargeable sodium ion battery using MoSe2 as anode. The battery can be charged purely by light without applying any external current or voltage. Then we investigated the elusive reaction mechanisms of MoSe2 sodium ion batteries. Additionally, we synthesized MoxW1-xSe2 ternary alloys and observed transformations in lateral size and phase with Mo content changes. The in-situ growth of WSe2 on different carbon spheres uncovered differential growth directions, laying the groundwork for enhancing the stability of TMD-based ion batteries.
Overall, this research offers essential insights into photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution and TMD-based ion batteries, contributing to the sustainable energy field. The innovative synthesis and characterization methods employed using windowed coin cell pave the way for future advancements in energy conversion and storage, addressing the urgent need to mitigate the current energy crisis and environmental challenges.
In this study, we have explored the synthesis, characterization, and energy applications of MoSe2, WSe2, and their heterostructures. We revealed that certain MoSe2/WSe2 ratios exhibit superior catalytic performance for photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction. The heterostructures proved to suppress charge recombination efficiently, allowing for novel electrode designs. Furthermore, we fabricated a photo rechargeable sodium ion battery using MoSe2 as anode. The battery can be charged purely by light without applying any external current or voltage. Then we investigated the elusive reaction mechanisms of MoSe2 sodium ion batteries. Additionally, we synthesized MoxW1-xSe2 ternary alloys and observed transformations in lateral size and phase with Mo content changes. The in-situ growth of WSe2 on different carbon spheres uncovered differential growth directions, laying the groundwork for enhancing the stability of TMD-based ion batteries.
Overall, this research offers essential insights into photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution and TMD-based ion batteries, contributing to the sustainable energy field. The innovative synthesis and characterization methods employed using windowed coin cell pave the way for future advancements in energy conversion and storage, addressing the urgent need to mitigate the current energy crisis and environmental challenges.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2023-08-27
Date Awarded
2024-04-01
Copyright Statement
Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial Licence
License URL
Advisor
Mattevi, Cecilia
Publisher Department
Materials
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)