Research group
Antwerp engineering, photoelectrochemistry and sensing (A-PECS)
Expertise
The central research theme of our research is photo(electro)catalysis for energy and environmental applications. An important line of research in that regards is plasmonic photocatalysis. By maintaining a holistic bottom-up approach, every aspect of this research theme is addressed. The main focus is on the fundamental level of surface science (catalyst synthesis, surface modification (coatings), morphological engineering, modelling of the light-matter interaction, etc.), but other aspects such as reactor design, activity testing, social and economic aspects are elaborately addressed as well. The main research goal is to boost the photocatalytic activity of metal oxide semiconductors by improving their solar light conversion efficiency and photon utilization capacity.
One of the primary strategies is surface modification with plasmonic nanostructures. A thorough fundamental mechanic understanding of these composite nanomaterials is key, and will in time lead to more performant applications.
A second line of research targets photo(electro)catalysis for energy applications. In particular, we are interested in hydrogen production technologies. We develop new (photo)electrolyzer technologies for water splitting, mainly focusing on membraneless designs. We are especially interested in using abundant sources as a feed, such as seawater, and even polluted water and air.
A third line of research involves photo(electro)catalysis in various environmental applications, such as air purification, (photo thermal) CO2 conversion, degradation of soot, self-cleaning and super-hydrophilic surfaces.
Verbruggen lab 