Nanotechnology for Energy Systems

Introduction to nanotechnology. Nanomaterials and nanosystems for energy applications. Examples of nanotechnology energy production, energy storage, energy harvesting, and high voltage technologies. A look into the future: electro and photocatalysis, hydrogen production and storage. Economical implications of nanotechnology in the energy field.

After successful completion of the module, students have acquired basic understanding of nanotechnology system with special emphasis to those which are relevant for energy applications as well as practical knowledge for instance about characterizations of nanoparticles that are used as active and/or electrode materials in batteries and solar cells. They know how to measure the performance of different types of solar cells. At the end of the module the students are able to analyze and evaluate energy related nanotechnology systems. They know how to present the results of their experiments in form of a scientific presentation and have learnt how to organize and present their work.

The student should have followed basic courses in engineering, materials science and/or physics.

The course will provide the basis for the understanding of nanotechnology systems for energy applications by lectures and provide some practical experience on how to handle such system experimentally in labs conducted in parallel to the lectures. Concerning the lab, small groups will work in a coordinated fashion towards the design, realization and/or characterization of different nanotechnological systems (e.g. solar cells or energy harvesters). In addition, the students will learn how to prepare, organize and carry out a scientific presentation.

The following kinds of media are used:
- Presentations
- Lecture notes
- Black board

The following literature is recommended:
- Class Notes
- Additional reading material, class notes and useful web sources will be provided to the students by a sharepoint system

The examination consists of three parts: The first part, covering the 2 hours lectures/week will be examined by a written 60 minutes test in the examination period. The test will consist of several questions where the students have to prove knowledge related competencies. This part will count for 50% of the final grade. In the second part each student will participate in one simulation activity (in groups of 2 people) or in a literature review (alone), that will start at the beginning of the semester and will have to be finished by the middle of the semester. An oral presentation will conclude this part, which will count for 20% of the final grade. By the simulation and literature review part the student proves his/her ability to analyze and critically evaluate systems related to energy applications in the field of nanotechnology. In the third part each student will participate in one experimental activity (in groups of 4 people) that will start at the middle of the semester and will have to be finished by the end of lecturing period. A group oral presentation will conclude this part, which will count for 30% of the final grade.