Entry requirements

120 credits with 90 credits in chemistry. Photochemistry, 10 credits, and Advanced Electrochemistry, 5 credits, or equivalent.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student should be able to

• discuss the principles behind energy conversion in solar cells and solar fuel systems.
• discuss different methods for solar fuel production.
• explain the conditions for photobiological fuel production, and discuss strategies for enhancing the photosynthetic yield.
• explain the function of different kinds of solar cells and their mechanisms for charge separation.
• perform measurements and calculations of efficiency and quantum yield forsolar cells.
• explain the different functions and fields of application of various kinds of batteries, the importance of the material chemistry for their function, as well as their role in the energy system.
• describe the present research challenges in the field of chemical energy conversion and storage.
• present, both in writingand orally, a relevant research topic for different audiences.

Content

A. Photobiology and photobiochemistry

Artificial photosynthesis, catalysts for solar fuel production , genetic modification of photosynthetic organisms, photobiological fuel production.

B. Solar cells

Principles for conversion of solar energy to electricity, fundamental calculations and measurement of efficiency of solar cells, different solar cell technologies (inorganic, inorganic, hybrid), charge separation and transport.

C. Batteries

Electrochemical processes in different batteries, battery materials (bulk, interfaces and nanoproperties), safety and reliability of batteries.

E. Individual assignment

Individual project (consisting of laboratory practice or literature study) including oral and written report.

Instruction

Lectures, tutorials, problem solving classes, demonstrations, seminars, projects and laboratory exercises.

Assessment

Written examination (10 credits) at the end of the course. The laboratory course and seminars correspond to 1 credit, and the project correspond to 4 credits. The final grade corresponds to a weighted sum of all of these components.