This SCGC-FIRST project explores a promising new family of solar materials based on alkaline earth zirconium sulfide and selenide perovskites. These semiconductors possess band gaps well suited for solar energy harvesting, yet their detailed crystal structures and structure–property relationships remain insufficiently understood.
The team will synthesise a broad range of compositions beyond those currently reported, undertaking comprehensive structural and optoelectronic characterisation. Particular attention will be given to subtle structural distortions and the distribution of sulfide and selenide ions within the lattice, and how these influence electronic and light-absorbing properties. The materials will also be screened for their potential as electrocatalysts in CO₂-consuming reactions, linking solar harvesting with carbon utilisation.
This initial phase will identify the most promising compositions for subsequent thin-film fabrication and optimisation using scalable techniques such as atomic layer deposition. By advancing sustainable solar materials capable of direct energy conversion and CO₂ reuse, the project aligns strongly with SCGC’s sustainability ambitions and opens new directions for future collaborative research.
