Apparently, there is a broad gap between on the one hand research on the thermochemical conversion of biomass into functional carbonaceous materials, and on the other hand tailoring of solid surfaces through thin film deposition. CARBONS (catalyzing research on biochar to obtain new surfaces) aims to surface engineer biochars and other carbon materials by deposition of thin metallic films and nanoparticles for catalytic applications in renewable energy production. Therefore, two research groups (TCCB and DRAFT) engage in a close collaboration. Both teams will bring in their expertise on the studied materials i.e., carbon surfaces and metal nanoparticles/thin films, and will use together surface characterization tools to understand the formation of nanoparticles/thin film on carbon surfaces and their anchoring with these surfaces. The integrated approach is depicted in the figure below. Key in this project proposal is the characterization of the surfaces obtained in every step, mainly through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), complemented with other techniques such as electron microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. Both teams will benefit from the expertise of the other and the obtained information on the characterization to expand their knowledge in their respective fields. TCCB will expand their knowledge in understanding the connection between the biochar properties and the production process, whereas DRAFT will expand their knowledge in the interaction between deposited thin films/nanoparticles with the functionalized biochar surface, and the behavior of biochars in high vacuum deposition. My main role as researcher is to investigate (i) how biochar production temperatures affect their functionality, (ii) how this functionality affects metal deposition and (iii) how metal deposited chars perform as catalyst for e.g., methanation of hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide.
English
Dutch
English
Cookie settings
Ghent University uses cookies on this website. The strictly necessary cookies are required for the proper functioning of the website and cannot be refused. Besides these necessary cookies, Ghent University also uses non-functional cookies such as statistical cookies (CrazyEgg analysis tool, Google, Hotjar, Piwik Pro) and social media cookies (YouTube, Facebook, TikTok). Those non-functional cookies may also be set by third parties, for example to measure site usage or share content on social media. Certain media are only available if you accept the cookies. You can always withdraw your consent via the "Cookie settings" link at the bottom of the webpage. You can read which cookies we use and why in the Cookie Statement.
We will store data in an aggregated form about visitors and their experiences on our website. We use this data to fix bugs and improve the experience for all visitors.
Conversion tracking
We will store data about when you complete certain actions on our website to understand better how you use it. We use this data to improve your experience with our site.
Social media cookies
We will store data to show you our advertisements (only ours) on other websites relevant to your interests.