SOLAR FUELS GENERATOR

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode.

Solar fuel generator

The disclosure provides conductive membranes for water splitting and solar fuel generation. The membranes comprise an embedded semiconductive/photoactive material and an oxygen or hydrogen evolution catalyst. Also provided are chassis and cassettes containing the membranes for use in fuel generation.

Localized deposition of polymer film on nanocantilever chemical vapor sensors by surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization

Cantilever chemical vapor sensors that can be tailored to respond preferentially in frequency by controlling the location of deposition of an adsorbing layer. Cantilever chemical vapor sensor having a base, one or more legs and a tip are fabricated using a gold layer to promote deposition of a sorbing layer of a polymeric material in a desired location, and using a chromium layer to inhibit deposition of the sorbing layer in other locations. Sorbing layers having different glass temperatures Tg and their effects are described. The methods of making such cantilever chemical vapor sensors are described.

Light-driven hydroiodic acid splitting from semiconductive fuel generator

This disclosure relates to photovoltaic and photoelectrosynthetic cells, devices, methods of making and using the same.

Method for alignment of microwires

A method of aligning microwires includes modifying the microwires so they are more responsive to a magnetic field. The method also includes using a magnetic field so as to magnetically align the microwires. The method can further include capturing the microwires in a solid support structure that retains the longitudinal alignment of the microwires when the magnetic field is not applied to the microwires.

Solar fuels generator

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode.

Three-dimensional patterning methods and related devices

Three-dimensional patterning methods of a three-dimensional microstructure, such as a semiconductor wire array, are described, in conjunction with etching and/or deposition steps to pattern the three-dimensional microstructure.

Methodology for forming pnictide compositions suitable for use in microelectronic devices

The present invention provides methods for making pnictide compositions, particularly photoactive and/or semiconductive pnictides. In many embodiments, these compositions are in the form of thin films grown on a wide range of suitable substrates to be incorporated into a wide range of microelectronic devices, including photovoltaic devices, photodetectors, light emitting diodes, betavoltaic devices, thermoelectric devices, transistors, other optoelectronic devices, and the like. As an overview, the present invention prepares these compositions from suitable source compounds in which a vapor flux is derived from a source compound in a first processing zone, the vapor flux is treated in a second processing zone distinct from the first processing zone, and then the treated vapor flux, optionally in combination with one or more other ingredients, is used to grow pnictide films on a suitable substrate.

Improved group iib/va semiconductors suitable for use in photovoltaic devices

The present invention relates to devices, particularly photovoltaic devices, incorporating Group IIB/VA semiconductors such phosphides, arsenides, and/or antimonides of one or more of Zn and/or Cd. In particular, the present invention relates to methodologies, resultant products, and precursors thereof in which electronic performance of the semiconductor material is improved by causing the Group IIB/VA semiconductor material to react with at least one metal-containing species (hereinafter co-reactive species) that is sufficiently co-reactive with at least one Group VA species incorporated into the Group IIB/VA semiconductor as a lattice substituent (recognizing that the same and/or another Group VA species also optionally may be incorporated into the Group IIB/VA semiconductor in other ways, e.g., as a dopant or the like).

Method for reuse of wafers for growth of vertically-aligned wire arrays

Reusing a Si wafer for the formation of wire arrays by transferring the wire arrays to a polymer matrix, reusing a patterned oxide for several array growths, and finally polishing and reoxidizing the wafer surface and reapplying the patterned oxide.

Method for reuse of wafers for growth of vertically-aligned wire arrays

Reusing a Si wafer for the formation of wire arrays by transferring the wire arrays to a polymer matrix, reusing a patterned oxide for several array growths, and finally polishing and reoxidizing the wafer surface and reapplying the patterned oxide.

NICKEL-BASED ELECTROCATALYTIC PHOTOELECTRODES

A photoelectrode, methods of making and using, including systems for water-splitting are provided. The photoelectrode can be a semiconductive material having a photocatalyst such as nickel or nickel-molybdenum coated on the material. 1. A photoelectrode comprising: a semiconducting substrate coated with a nickel or nickel-molybdenum metal catalyst.2. The photoelectrode according to claim 1 , wherein the semiconductive substrate comprises silicon.3. The photoelectrode according to claim 2 , wherein the photoelectrode is a photocathode.4. The photoelectrode according to claim 1 , wherein the semiconducting substrate comprises nano- and/or micro-wires.5. The photoelectrode according to claim 4 , wherein the semiconducting substrate comprises an array of nano- and/or micro-wires.7. The method of claim 6 , further comprising adding molybdenum to the plating bath.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the molybdenum is in the form of sodium molybdate.9. The method of claim 6 , further comprising adding a small amount of boric acid to the bath as a stabilizer.10. The method of claim 6 , further comprising adjusting the pH with sulfamic acid or sodium hydroxide.11. The method of claim 6 , wherein the semiconducting substrate comprises an array of silicon nano- or micro-wires.12. The method of claim 6 , wherein the auxilliary electrode is a Ni foil.13. The method of claim 6 , wherein the current between the semiconducting substrate and the auxiliary electrode is between about 1 and 100 mA of cathodic current for every cmof macroscopic surface area of the semiconducting substrate surface to be coated.14. A photoelectrode made by the method of .15. A photocell for conversion of water to hydrogen comprising: a photoanode comprising one or more ordered wire arrays comprising a plurality of elongate photoanode semiconductor wires claim 6 , wherein the photoanode semiconductor wires are oriented to receive incident light; a photocathode comprising one or more ordered wire arrays ...

Proton exchange membrane electrolysis using water vapor as a feedstock

A light-driven electrolytic cell that uses water vapor as the feedstock and that has no wires or connections whatsoever to an external electrical power source of any kind. In one embodiment, the electrolytic cell uses a proton exchange membrane (PEM) with an IrRuO x water oxidation catalyst and a Pt black water reduction catalyst to consume water vapor and generate molecular oxygen and a chemical fuel, molecular hydrogen. The operation of the electrolytic cell using water vapor supplied by a humidified carrier gas has been demonstrated under varying conditions of the gas flow rate, the relative humidity, and the presence or absence of oxygen. The performance of the system with water vapor was also compared to the performance when the device was immersed in liquid water.

LOCALIZED DEPOSITION OF POLYMER FILM ON NANOCANTILEVER CHEMICAL VAPOR SENSORS BY SURFACE-INITIATED ATOM TRANSFER RADICAL POLYMERIZATION

Cantilever chemical vapor sensors that can be tailored to respond preferentially in frequency by controlling the location of deposition of an adsorbing layer. Cantilever chemical vapor sensor having a base, one or more legs and a tip are fabricated using a gold layer to promote deposition of a sorbing layer of a polymeric material in a desired location, and using a chromium layer to inhibit deposition of the sorbing layer in other locations. Sorbing layers having different glass temperatures Tg and their effects are described. The methods of making such cantilever chemical vapor sensors are described. 1. A cantilever chemical vapor sensor , comprising:{'sub': '0', 'a cantilever structure having a base, having at least one leg extending from said base and having a tip at a distal end of said at least one leg, said cantilever structure attached to a substrate at said base thereof and configured to oscillate at a natural resonant frequency F;'}{'sub': '0', 'a sorbent film attached to a location of said cantilever structure selected from the group of locations consisting of said base, said at least one leg and said tip, and absent from another of said locations of said cantilever structure selected from the group of locations consisting of said base, said at least one leg and said tip, said sorbent film configured to collect by sorbtion molecules from a vapor is contact with said cantilever structure, said molecules collected configured to cause a change ΔF in said natural resonant frequency F; and'}a signal output port configured to provide a signal representative of said oscillation frequency of said cantilever structure.2. The cantilever chemical vapor sensor of claim 1 , wherein a promoter film is situated on a surface of said cantilever structure at said location of said cantilever structure selected from the group of locations consisting of said base claim 1 , said at least one leg and said tip where said sorbent film is attached.3. The cantilever chemical vapor ...

TANDEM SOLAR CELL USING A SILICON MICROWIRE ARRAY AND AMORPHOUS SILICON PHOTOVOLTAIC LAYER

This invention relates to photovoltaic cells, devices, methods of making and using the same. 1. A microstructure for converting solar energy to electricity comprisingan array of semiconducting microwires on a substrate and comprising one or more silicon-based semiconductive materials having different band-gaps in intimate electrical contact with the microwires.2. The microstructure of claim 1 , wherein the array of microwires are crystalline silicon.3. The microstructure of claim 1 , wherein the one or more silicon-based semiconductive materials form p-n junctions with the microwires.4. The microstructure of claim 1 , wherein a microwire of the array of microwires has a dimension comprising 500 nm to about 10 micrometers in diameter and about 1 micrometer to 1 mm in length.5. The microstructure of claim 4 , wherein the microwires and the substrate are the same material.6. The microstructure of claim 5 , wherein the microwire and the substrate are p-type (or n-type) crystalline silicon.7. The microstructure of claim 6 , wherein the one or more silicon-based semiconductive materials comprises an n-type (or p-type claim 6 , respectively) silicon layer on the radial surface of a microwire.8. The microstructure of claim 4 , wherein an end of a microwire distal from the substrate comprises one or more silicon-based semiconductive materials with a different band-gap forming a cap on the microwire forming a buried junction.9. The microstructure of claim 8 , wherein the one or more silicon-based semiconductive materials at the end of the microwire is an amorphous p-type (or n-type claim 8 , respectively) silicon material.10. The microstructure of claim 9 , further comprising an additional undoped and then n-type (or p-type claim 9 , respectively) amorphous silicon.11. The microstructure of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the array of microwires is embedded in a polymer claim 1 , glass claim 1 , or wax.12. The microstructure of claim 7 , wherein a portion of the array of ...

NICKEL-BASED ELECTROCATALYTIC PHOTOELECTRODES

The disclosure provides methods and compositions comprising metal alloy powders. The disclosure also provides a photoelectrode, methods of making and using, including systems for water-splitting are provided. The photoelectrode can be a semiconductive material having a photocatalyst such as nickel or nickel-molybdenum coated on the material. 1. A method of producing a nanoparticle mixed metal composite , comprising:(a) precipitating a nanoparticle mixed metal composite from a heated solvent system, the heated solvent system produced by adding an aqueous metal salt solution to a heated solvent; and(b) reducing the nanoparticle mixed metal composite using a reducing agent;wherein the heterogeneous metal salt solution is comprised of at least two transition metal containing salts, wherein the solvent system is heated at temperatures of at least 90° C., and wherein the nanoparticle mixed metal composite is comprised substantially of oxidized metal species.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein (b) is carried out at an elevated temperature under a reducing atmosphere comprising the reducing agent.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the reducing atmosphere comprises at least 4% hydrogen gas and wherein hydrogen is the reducing agent.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein prior to step (b) the nanoparticle mixed metal composite precipitant is substantially purified comprising the steps of: removing the solvent from the precipitant claim 1 , washing the precipitant claim 1 , and drying the precipitant.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nanoparticle mixed metal composite is comprised of at least one of the following transition metals: nickel claim 1 , molybdenum claim 1 , iron claim 1 , cobalt claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , manganese claim 1 , tungsten claim 1 , and vanadium.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nanoparticle mixed metal composite is comprised of at least two of the following transition metals: nickel claim 1 , molybdenum claim 1 , iron claim 1 , cobalt claim 1 , ...

AXIALLY-INTEGRATED EPITAXIALLY-GROWN TANDEM WIRE ARRAYS

A photoelectrode, methods of making and using, including systems for water-splitting are provided. The photoelectrode can be a semiconducting material having a photocatalyst such as nickel or nickel-molybdenum coated on the material. The photoelectrode includes an elongated axially integrated wire having at least two different wire compositions. 1. A nano- or micro-wire comprising a plurality of axial-integrated epitaxially-grown tandem wires comprising at least a first junction comprising a first semiconducting material and at least a second junction comprising a different semiconducting material.2. The nano- or micro-wire of claim 1 , wherein the at least first junction and at least second junction are separated by an ohmic layer.3. The nano- or micro-wire of claim 1 , wherein the ohmic layer and at least second layer comprise a semiconducting material each individually selected from the group consisting of TiO claim 1 , CaTiO claim 1 , SrTiO claim 1 , SrTiO claim 1 , SrTiO claim 1 , RbLaTiO claim 1 , CsLaTiO claim 1 , CsLaTiNbO claim 1 , LaTiO claim 1 , LaTiO claim 1 , LaTiO claim 1 , LaTiO:Ba claim 1 , KaLaZrTiO claim 1 , LaCaTiO claim 1 , KTiNbO claim 1 , NaTiO claim 1 , BaTiO claim 1 , GdTiO claim 1 , YTiO claim 1 , ZrO claim 1 , KNbO claim 1 , RbNbO claim 1 , CaNbO claim 1 , SrNbO claim 1 , BaNbO claim 1 , NaCaNbO claim 1 , ZnNbO claim 1 , CsNbO claim 1 , LaNbO claim 1 , TaO claim 1 , KsPrTaO claim 1 , KTaSiO claim 1 , KTaBO claim 1 , LiTaO claim 1 , KTaO claim 1 , AgTaO claim 1 , KTaO:Zr claim 1 , NaTaO:La claim 1 , NaTaO:Sr claim 1 , NaTaO claim 1 , CaTaO claim 1 , SrTaO claim 1 , NiTaO claim 1 , RbTaO claim 1 , CaTaO claim 1 , SrTaO.KSrTaO claim 1 , RbNdTaO claim 1 , HLaTaO claim 1 , KSrTaO claim 1 , LiCaTaO claim 1 , KBaTaO claim 1 , SrTaO claim 1 , BaTaO claim 1 , HSrBiTaO claim 1 , Mg—Ta Oxide claim 1 , LaTaO claim 1 , LaTaO claim 1 , PbWO claim 1 , RbWNbO claim 1 , RbWTaO claim 1 , CeO:Sr claim 1 , BaCeO claim 1 , NaInO claim 1 , CaInO claim 1 , SrInO ...

Solar fuels generator

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode.

SEMICONDUCTOR STRUCTURES FOR FUEL GENERATION

This disclosure relates to photovoltaic and photoelectrosynthetic cells, devices, methods of making and using the same. 1. An elongated structure comprising a plurality of radially-integrated tandem junctions separated by a transparent low resistance layer , wherein a first junction comprises a first semiconductive material and at least a second junction comprises a second different or the same semiconducting material having a different or the same band gap compared to the first semiconductive material.2. The elongated structure of claim 1 , wherein the first junction and second junction are separated by a low resistance layer comprising a transparent conductive oxide.3. The elongated structure of claim 1 , wherein the low resistance layer comprises one or more of a material selected from the group consisting of TiO claim 1 , CaTiO claim 1 , SrTiO claim 1 , SrTiO claim 1 , SrTiO claim 1 , RbLaTiO claim 1 , CsLaTiO claim 1 , CsLaTiNbO claim 1 , LaTiO claim 1 , LaTiO claim 1 , LaTiO claim 1 , LaTiO:Ba claim 1 , KaLaZrTiO claim 1 , LaCaTiO claim 1 , KTiNbO claim 1 , NaTiO claim 1 , BaTiO claim 1 , GdTiO claim 1 , YTiO claim 1 , ZrO claim 1 , KNbO claim 1 , RbNbO claim 1 , CaNbO claim 1 , SrNbO claim 1 , BaNbO claim 1 , NaCaNbO claim 1 , ZnNbO claim 1 , CsNbO claim 1 , LaNbO claim 1 , TaO claim 1 , KsPrTaO claim 1 , KTaSiO claim 1 , KTaBO claim 1 , LiTaO claim 1 , KTaO claim 1 , AgTaO claim 1 , KTaO:Zr claim 1 , NaTaO:La claim 1 , NaTaO:Sr claim 1 , NaTaO claim 1 , CaTaO claim 1 , SrTaO claim 1 , NiTaO claim 1 , RbTaO claim 1 , CaTaO claim 1 , SrTaO. KSrTaO claim 1 , RbNdTaO claim 1 , HLaTaO claim 1 , KSrTaO claim 1 , LiCaTaO claim 1 , KBaTaO claim 1 , SrTaO claim 1 , BaTaO claim 1 , HSrBiTaO claim 1 , Mg—Ta Oxide claim 1 , LaTaO claim 1 , LaTaO claim 1 , PbWO claim 1 , RbWNbO claim 1 , RbWTaO claim 1 , CeO:Sr claim 1 , BaCeO claim 1 , NaInO claim 1 , CaInO claim 1 , SrInO claim 1 , LaInO claim 1 , YInO claim 1 , NaSbO claim 1 , CaSbO claim 1 , CaSbO claim 1 , SrSbO ...

HIGH LEVEL INJECTION SYSTEMS

A semiconductor device having elongated structure having high-level injection are provided, as well as making and using such devices. 1. A device comprising:a back contact layer;an ordered array of elongated intrinsic or lightly doped semiconductor structures, wherein the elongate structures have length dimensions defined by adjacent ends in electrical contact with at least portions of the back contact layer and distal ends not in contact with the back contact layer and have radial dimensions generally normal to the length dimensions and the radial dimensions are less than the length dimensions and wherein the diameters of the elongated structures are greater than 500 nm; andan axial or radial contact layer or medium, wherein at least some portions of the axial or radial contact layer or medium are in electrical contact with one or more elongate structures of the plurality of the elongate structures along at least portions of the length dimensions of the one or more elongate semiconductor structures, wherein the elongate structures absorb received light.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the radial dimensions are less than or equal to minority carrier diffusion lengths for material comprising the elongate semiconductor structures.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structures comprise minority carrier lifetimes of greater than 1 μs.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structures comprise diameters greater than 500 nm.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structures comprise diameters of about 1.75 μm to 3 μm.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structures' acceptor concentrations (Na) are ˜1×10to 10cm.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structures' donor acceptor concentrations (Nd) are ˜1×10to 10cm8. The device of claim 1 , wherein when the back contact is an n-type contact the radial or axial contact is p-type.9. The device of claim 1 , wherein when the back contact is a p-type contact the ...

METHODOLOGY FOR FORMING PNICTIDE COMPOSITIONS SUITABLE FOR USE IN MICROELECTRONIC DEVICES

The present invention provides methods for making pnictide compositions, particularly photoactive and/or semiconductive pnictides. In many embodiments, these compositions are in the form of thin films grown on a wide range of suitable substrates to be incorporated into a wide range of microelectronic devices, including photovoltaic devices, photodetectors, light emitting diodes, betavoltaic devices, thermoelectric devices, transistors, other optoelectronic devices, and the like. As an overview, the present invention prepares these compositions from suitable source compounds in which a vapor flux is derived from a source compound in a first processing zone, the vapor flux is treated in a second processing zone distinct from the first processing zone, and then the treated vapor flux, optionally in combination with one or more other ingredients, is used to grow pnictide films on a suitable substrate. 1. A method of forming a Group IIB/VA pnictide composition , comprising the steps of:a) providing at least one Group IIB/VA pnictide source compound, said pnictide source compound incorporating at least one pnictogen and at least one Group IIB element other than a pnictogen;{'sup': N', 'N', 'N', 'N, 'sub': 2', '4', '2', '4, 'b) treating the Group IIB/VA pnictide source compound under first conditions in a first processing zone in a manner effective to create a vapor flux comprising a vapor species, the vapor flux derived at least in part from the Group IIB/VA pnictide source compound and comprising Pand Pmolecular pnictogen species having a first mole fraction of Prelative to P;'}{'sup': N', 'N', 'N', 'N, 'sub': 2', '4', '2', '4, 'c) treating the vapor flux under second conditions in a second processing zone in a manner effective to provide a modified vapor flux comprising Pand Pmolecular pnictogen species having a second mole fraction of Prelative to P; and'}d) using ingredients including at least the treated vapor flux to form the Group IIB/VA pnictide composition.2. The ...

SOLAR FUELS GENERATOR

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode. 1. A solar fuels generator , comprising:one or more power generating components and one or more fuel generating components;the one or more fuel generating components including a separator having a first surface and second surface located between an oxidation catalyst and a reduction catalyst;the one or more power generating components including a pair of electrodes, at least one being a photoelectrode light absorber; andan electrical conduit providing electrical communication between the electrodes and the catalysts.2. The solar fuels generator of claim 1 , whereinthe one or more power generating components includes a photoanode light absorber and a photocathode light absorber;an anode electrical conduit providing electrical communication between the photoanode light absorber and the oxidation catalyst; anda cathode electrical conduit providing electrical communication between the photocathode light absorber and the reduction catalyst.3. The solar fuels generator of claim 1 , wherein the separator comprisesa polymer mesh coated with a conducting polymer material and containing a plurality of photoactive structures that serve as photoelectrodes;wherein the conducting polymer is adhered to the polymer mesh substrate to form the separator,wherein the plurality of photoactive structures are embedded in the separator,and wherein all or a subset of the structures embedded in the membrane extend entirely through the separator.4. The solar fuels generator of claim 3 , wherein a portion of the ...

Semiconductive micro- and nano-wire array manufacturing

The disclosure provides methods of manufacturing semiconductive structures using stamping and VLS techniques.

LIGHT-DRIVEN HYDROIODIC ACID SPLITTING FROM SEMICONDUCTIVE FUEL GENERATOR

This disclosure relates to photovoltaic and photoelectrosynthetic cells, devices, methods of making and using the same. 2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of elongated structures comprise a p-type Si core and an n emitter layer.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of elongated structures comprise an n-type Si core.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the elongated structures have (i) a surface methyl group and a bottom n region; or (ii) a p emitter layer and a bottom n region.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of elongated structures comprise an undoped Si core.5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the elongated structures have (i) a surface methyl group and a bottom n region; (ii) a p emitter layer and a bottom n region; or (iii) an n emitter layer and a bottom p region.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the potential of an HI solution is varied from 150 mV to 950 mV through dilution of fuming aqueous HI claim 1 , addition of various concentrations of Ito the solution claim 1 , and/or adding iodide salt or another acid source to dilute HI solution.7. The device of claims 1 , wherein the elongated structure has a dimension comprising 500 nm to about 5 micrometers in diameter and about 1 micrometer to 1 mm in length or wherein the elongated structure has a mean diameter less than 1 micrometer and a length of less than 1 micrometer and an aspect ratio of greater than 1.8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structure has an aspect ratio greater than 1.9. The device of claim 1 , wherein the semiconductive material is Si.10. The device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structure is substantially embedded in a material comprising an ionomer material.11. The device of claim 10 , wherein the material forms the ionomer membrane comprising the elongated structure embedded in the material extending from and/or through a first surface to and/or through a second surface of the membrane.12. The device of claim 1 , wherein one or both ...

HETEROJUNCTION MICROWIRE ARRAY SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES

A heterojunction semiconductor device including an array of microstructures, each microstructure including a microwire of a first semiconductor material and a coating of a second semiconductor material forming a heterojunction with the microwire; a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, one of which is connected to the microwire and the other of which is connected to the coating, is described. Also described are considerations for configuring the array of microstructures, and methods of forming the array of microstructures. 1. A heterojunction semiconductor device comprising:an array of microstructures, each microstructure comprising a microwire of a first semiconductor material and a coating of a second semiconductor material forming a heterojunction with the microwire;a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, one of which is connected to the microwire and the other of which is connected to the coating.2. The heterojunction semiconductor device of claim 1 , wherein the first semiconductor material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Si claim 1 , Ge claim 1 , SiGe claim 1 , GaAs claim 1 , CdTe claim 1 , CdSe claim 1 , GaN claim 1 , GaP claim 1 , GaAsP claim 1 , GaInP claim 1 , AlInP claim 1 , InGaN claim 1 , and combinations thereof.3. The heterojunction semiconductor device of claim 1 , wherein the second semiconductor material comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Si claim 1 , Ge claim 1 , SiGe claim 1 , GaAs claim 1 , CdTe claim 1 , CdSe claim 1 , GaN claim 1 , GaP claim 1 , GaAsP claim 1 , GaInP claim 1 , AlInP claim 1 , InGaN claim 1 , and combinations thereof.4. The heterojunction semiconductor device of claim 1 , wherein the microwire is configured to be substantially parallel to the direction of propagation of incident light.5. The heterojunction semiconductor device of claim 1 , wherein the heterojunction is a p-i-n or n-i-p heterojunction.6. The heterojunction semiconductor ...

METHOD OF MAKING PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES INCORPORATING IMPROVED PNICTIDE SEMICONDUCTOR FILMS

The present invention uses a treatment that involves an etching treatment that forms a pnictogen-rich region on the surface of a pnictide semiconductor film The region is very thin in many modes of practice, often being on the order of only 2 to 3 nm thick in many embodiments. Previous investigators have left the region in place without appreciating the fact of its presence and/or that its presence, if known, can compromise electronic performance of resultant devices. The present invention appreciates that the formation and removal of the region advantageously renders the pnictide film surface highly smooth with reduced electronic defects. The surface is well-prepared for further device fabrication. 1. A method of making a photovoltaic device , comprising the steps of:a. providing a pnictide semiconductor film comprising at least one pnictide semiconductor comprising zinc and phosphorous, said film having a surface; i. contacting the film with a first etching composition in a manner effective to form a phosphorus-rich region on the surface of the film; and', 'ii. in the presence of an oxidizing agent, removing at least a portion of the phosphorus-rich region using a second etching composition that selectively etches the phosphorus-rich region or a derivative thereof relative to the pnictide semiconductor film., 'b. treating the film, said treating comprising the steps of23-. (canceled)4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the removing step removes a derivative of the phosphorus-rich region claim 1 , said derivative comprising an oxide of a pnictogen.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the phosphorus-rich region is at least partially amorphous.6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of incorporating the pnictide film into a photovoltaic device.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first and second etching compositions are different.8. (canceled)9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second etching composition is a fluid admixture that comprises at least ...

AXIALLY-INTEGRATED EPITAXIALLY-GROWN TANDEM WIRE ARRAYS

A photoelectrode, methods of making and using, including systems for water-splitting are provided. The photoelectrode can be a semiconducting material having a photocatalyst such as nickel or nickel-molybdenum coated on the material. The photoelectrode includes an elongated axially integrated wire having at least two different wire compositions. 1. A method of making a nano- or micro-wire , comprising: (i) forming a templated oxide layer on the substrate, wherein the template for the templated oxide layer comprises openings in the oxide layer for the formation of a first junction structure; and', '(ii) growing a set of first junction structures on the substrate, wherein the first junction structure growth is supported by a catalyst deposited in the openings in the oxide layer;, '(a) fabricating a first junction structures on a Si substrate comprising'}(b) encapsulating the fabricated first junction structures in a passivation layer;(c) etching the passivation layer to expose an end of the first junction structure; and(d) growing a second junction structure on the exposed end of the first junction structure.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the encapsulating of (b) comprises depositing SiO claim 1 , SiN claim 1 , SiONor amorphous Si on the first junction structure.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second junction structure is grown by a metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) system or a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) system.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising after (c) depositing an ohmic contact layer on the exposed end of the first junction structure.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the ohmic contact comprises a semiconducting material.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the ohmic contact comprises a material selected from the group consisting of GaAs claim 5 , GaP claim 5 , GaAsP claim 5 , AlGa claim 5 , As claim 5 , AlGaAsP claim 5 , InGaAs claim 5 , InGaP claim 5 , InGaAsP claim 5 , AlInAsP claim 5 , AlGaAsNP claim 5 , InGaAsNP claim 5 , ...

Solar fuel generator

The disclosure provides conductive membranes for water splitting and solar fuel generation. The membranes comprise an embedded semiconductive/photoactive material and an oxygen or hydrogen evolution catalyst. Also provided are chassis and cassettes containing the membranes for use in fuel generation.

LONGITUDINAL ALIGNMENT OF MICROWIRES

A method of aligning microwires includes modifying the microwires so they are more responsive to a magnetic field. The method also includes using a magnetic field so as to magnetically align the microwires. The method can further include capturing the microwires in a solid support structure that retains the longitudinal alignment of the microwires when the magnetic field is not applied to the microwires. 1. A method of forming a device , comprising:modifying microwires so as to increase the responsivity of the microwires to a magnetic field; andusing the magnetic field to longitudinally align the microwires.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein using the magnetic field includes applying the magnetic field to the microwires such that more than 90% of the microwires each has a longitudinal axis that is within 7° of the direction of the magnetic field.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal axis of less than 90% of the microwires was within 7° of the direction of the magnetic field before using the magnetic field.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein modifying the microwires includes forming a coating of a material on a body of the microwire.5. The method of claim 4 , further comprising:removing at least a portion of the coating after using the magnetic field.6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the coating is more than 20 nm thick.7. The method of claim 4 , wherein coating includes a ferromagnetic material.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein forming the coating includes electroplating or sputtering the microwires with the ferromagnetic material.9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the ferromagnetic material includes at least one components selected from nickel and cobalt.10. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:placing the microwires in a liquid so as to form an alignment liquid before using the magnetic field.11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising:placing the alignment liquid on a substrate before using the magnetic field.12. The method of claim 11 , ...

ANTIMONATE ELECTROCATALYST FOR AN ELECTROCHEMICAL REACTION

Disclosed are stable, active non-precious metal oxide catalysts, such as transition metal antimonates (TMAs), for electrochemical reactions in harsh media conditions, such as the chlorine evolution reaction (CER). A disclosed electrocatalyst includes a metal oxide film containing a crystalline transition metal antimonite (TMA). The crystalline TMA may include NiSbO, CoSbO, or MnSbO. The metal oxide film may be formed on a conductive substrate, for example, a substrate including an antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO) film, using an annealing process. 1. A method of manufacturing an electrocatalyst usable for an electrochemical reaction , comprising:depositing an antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO) film onto a substrate;depositing a metallic film onto the ATO film; andannealing the ATO film and the metallic film to form a metal oxide film containing a crystalline transition metal antimonite (TMA).2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the TMA is selected from the group consisting of NiSbO claim 1 , CoSbO claim 1 , and MnSbO claim 1 , where x is greater than zero and less than or equal to six.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the TMA is selected from the group consisting of NiSbO claim 1 , CoSbO claim 1 , and MnSbO.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metallic film includes a metal or alloy selected from the group consisting of Ni claim 1 , Co claim 1 , Mn claim 1 , Sb claim 1 , NiSb claim 1 , CoSb claim 1 , and MnSb.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein depositing the metallic film onto the ATO film includes sputtering a metal onto the ATO film.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein depositing the metallic film onto the ATO film includes co-sputtering a plurality of metals onto the ATO film.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metallic film includes a transition metal and antimony claim 1 , where the transition metal (M) loading and stoichiometry to antimony (Sb) is a bulk M:Sb atomic ratio of approximately 1:2.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the metallic film includes a ...

PHOTOASSISTED HIGH EFFICIENCY CONVERSION OF CARBON-CONTAINING FUELS TO ELECTRICITY

Electricity is generated by oxidizing a carbon-containing fuel in a photoelectrochemical fuel cell via a cyclic oxidation pathway to yield carbon dioxide and water, and collecting the electrons released via the cyclic oxidation pathway to yield a flow of electrons. The cyclic oxidation pathway includes a series of reactions of which is a photooxidation reaction. Photooxidation triggers one or more dark oxidation reactions, thereby increasing the efficiency of the photoelectrochemical fuel cell. 1. A method of generating electricity from a carbon-containing fuel in a photoelectrochemical fuel cell , the method comprising:oxidizing a carbon-containing fuel via a cyclic oxidation pathway to yield carbon dioxide and water; andcollecting the electrons released via the cyclic oxidation pathway to yield a flow of electrons,wherein the cyclic oxidation pathway comprises a series of reactions comprising oxidation reactions, wherein the oxidation reactions comprise at least one photooxidation reaction.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the thermodynamic efficiency of the conversion of the carbon-containing fuel to electricity is at least 37%.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the series of reactions comprises photooxidation of a first carboxylic acid to yield a carbocation.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the series of reactions further comprises formation of an alcohol from the carbocation.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the series of reactions further comprises oxidation of the alcohol to yield an aldehyde.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the series of reactions further comprises formation of a geminal diol from the aldehyde.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the series of reactions further comprises oxidation of the geminal diol to yield a second carboxylic acid.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the carbon-containing fuel is a carbon-containing compound comprising at least two carbon atoms.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the carbon-containing fuel is an organic ...

SEMICONDUCTOR STRUCTURES FOR FUEL GENERATION

This disclosure relates to photovoltaic and photo-electrosynthetic cells, devices, methods of making and using the same. 1. A method of making an elongated structure , comprising: (i) forming a templated oxide layer on the substrate, wherein the template for the templated oxide layer comprises openings in the oxide layer for the formation of a first semiconductive structure; and', '(ii) growing a set of first semiconductive structures on the substrate, wherein the first semiconductive structure growth is supported by a catalyst deposited in the openings in the oxide layer;, '(a) fabricating a first semiconductive structures on a Si substrate comprising'}(b) coating the fabricated first semiconductive structures in an oppositely doped semiconductive material layer to generate an emitter layer;(c) coating the emitter layer with an transparent low resistance layer; and(d) radially and epitaxially applying a second semiconductive material on the transparent low resistance layer, wherein the second semiconductive material has the same or wider band-gap as the first semiconductive material.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the low resistance layer comprises a semiconductive material.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the low resistance layer comprises a transparent conductive oxide.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the transparent conductive oxide is selected from the group consisting of cadmium tin oxide (CTO) claim 3 , indium tin oxide (ITO) claim 3 , fluorine-doped tin oxide (SnO:F or FTC)) claim 3 , indium-doped cadmium-oxide claim 3 , cadmium stannate (CdSnOor CTO) claim 3 , doped zinc oxide (ZnO) claim 3 , such as aluminum-doped zinc-oxide (ZnO:Al or AZO) claim 3 , indium-zinc oxide (IZO) claim 3 , zinc tin oxide (ZnSnO) claim 3 , and combinations thereof.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the elongated structure is substantially embedded in a wax claim 1 , glass or polymer.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the embedded elongated structure are mechanically ...

HYDROGEN EVOLUTION REACTION CATALYSIS

A Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) catalyst includes at least one component selected from a group consisting of transition metal phosphides and first row transition metal sulfides. The catalyst can be included in nanoparticles. In some instances, the catalyst is included in a hydrogen evolution reaction electrode. In one example, the catalyst is cobalt phosphide. 1. A device , comprising:a hydrogen evolution reaction catalyst, the catalyst including at least one component selected from a group consisting of transition metal phosphides, first row transition metal sulfides, and transition metal arsenides.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is included in nanoparticles.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the nanoparticles have an average diameter greater than 1 nm and less than 10 claim 2 ,000 nm.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is a phosphide that includes phosphorous and one or more transition metals selected from the group consisting of cobalt claim 1 , tungsten claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , iron claim 1 , titanium claim 1 , vanadium claim 1 , chromium claim 1 , manganese claim 1 , niobium claim 1 , and molybdenum.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is a sulfide that includes sulfur and one or more first row transition metals selected from the group consisting of vanadium claim 1 , chromium claim 1 , manganese claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , copper claim 1 , iron and titanium.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is an arsenide that includes arsenic and one or more transition metals selected from the group consisting of titanium claim 1 , chromium claim 1 , iron claim 1 , cobalt claim 1 , nickel claim 1 , molybdenum claim 1 , and tungsten.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein the catalyst is cobalt phosphide.8. The device of claim 7 , wherein the cobalt phosphide is represented by CoPwherein x has value greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to 4 and y has a value greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to 4 ...

Solar fuels generator with ph separation

A solar fuels generator includes an anolyte and a catholyte in contact with a separator. The separator is configured such that the pH of the anolyte and the pH of the catholyte are each held at a steady state pH level during operation of the solar fuels generator. The steady state pH level of the anolyte is different from the steady state pH level of the catholyte.

Conformally coated wire array photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical fuel generation

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to photoelectrodes having a wire array core and a conformal coating on the core. The wire array core and the conformal coating can be independently selected from inorganic semiconductor materials. The photoelectrodes can be used as either or both the anode and cathode in a device for fuel generation. Such a device, for example, could include a photoanode and a photocathode separated from each other by an electrically and ionically permeable, and proton-conductive membrane. 1. A device for photoelectrochemical fuel generation , comprising an electrode comprising:a core comprising an array of wires, the wires comprising a first inorganic semiconductor material; anda conformal coating on the array of wires of the core, the conformal coating comprising a second inorganic semiconductor material.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the first and second inorganic semiconductor materials is independently selected from the group consisting of Group IV elemental semiconductors claim 1 , Group IV compound semiconductors claim 1 , III-V semiconductors claim 1 , and II-VI semiconductors.3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first inorganic semiconductor material comprises Si claim 1 , Ge claim 1 , SiGe alloys claim 1 , GaP claim 1 , GaAsPalloys claim 1 , GaAsNPalloys claim 1 , and WO.4. The device according to claim 2 , wherein the second inorganic semiconductor material is different from the first inorganic semiconductor material and comprises GaP claim 2 , a GaAsPalloy claim 2 , a GaAsNPalloy claim 2 , or WO.5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first inorganic semiconductor material is Si claim 1 , Ge or a SiGe alloy claim 1 , and the second semiconductor material is GaP claim 1 , a GaAsPalloy claim 1 , a GaAsNPalloy claim 1 , or WO.6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the first inorganic semiconductor material is Si claim 1 , and the second semiconductor material is GaP or a ...

Method of making photovoltaic devices incorporating improved pnictide semiconductor films using metallization/annealing/removal techniques

The present invention provides methods of making photovoltaic devices incorporating improved pnictide semiconductor films. In particular, the principles of the present invention are used to improve the surface quality of pnictide films. Photovoltaic devices incorporating these films demonstrate improved electronic performance. As an overview, the present invention involves a methodology that metalizes the pnictide film, anneals the metalized film under conditions that tend to form an alloy between the pnictide film and the alloy, and then removes the excess metal and at least a portion of the alloy. In one mode of practice, the pnictide semiconductor is Zinc phosphide and the metal is Magnesium.

SOLAR FUELS GENERATOR

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode. 1. A method of generating fuel comprising:contacting a photoanode of a solar generator with light and a feedstock selected from the group consisting of gas vapor, a pure water liquid, a gas vapor electrolyte and a liquid electrolyte,wherein the solar generator comprises:one or more power generating components and one or more fuel generating components;the one or more fuel generating components including a separator having a first surface and second surface located between one or more oxidation catalysts and one or more reduction catalysts;a cation conduit that covers at least portions of the one or more reduction catalysts and the one or more oxidation catalysts;the one or more power generating components including a pair of electrodes, at least one being a photoelectrode light absorber; andan electrical conduit providing electrical communication between the pair of electrodes and the one or more oxidation catalysts and one or more reduction catalysts;wherein the cation conduit is substantially non-conductive to entities selected from the group consisting of anions, nonionic atoms, non-ionic compounds and any combination thereof; andwherein the feedstock is oxidized by the one or more oxidation catalysts.2. The method of claim 1 , whereinthe pair of electrodes includes a photoanode light absorber and a photocathode light absorber;an anode electrical conduit providing electrical communication between the photoanode light absorber and the one or more oxidation catalyst; anda cathode ...

USE OF INTERMEDIATES IN SOLAR FUELS GENERATION

A solar fuels generation system includes a first reactor that contains a first solution in which a charge carrier is reduced to a reduced charge carrier. The system also includes a second reactor that contains a second solution in which the reduced charge carrier reduces protons so as to generate hydrogen gas. 1. A solar fuels generation system , comprising:a first reactor that contains a first solution in which a charge carrier is reduced to a reduced charge carrier; anda second reactor that contains a second solution in which the reduced charge carrier from the first solution reduces protons so as to generate hydrogen gas.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the charge carrier is a vanadium cation.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the charge carrier is represented by X wherein X represents an atom or a compound claim 1 , i+ represents the charge of X where i is an integer and is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to 5.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the reduced charge carrier is represented by X wherein j is an integer and can be 1 claim 3 , 2 claim 3 , 3 claim 3 , or 4 and (i−j) is greater than 0.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein X represents vanadium claim 4 , i is 3 and j is 1.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the pH of the first solution is less than 1.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the charge carrier and the reduced charge carrier are a redox couple and a redox potential for the redox couple is less than a hydrogen evolution potential for evolving the hydrogen gas in the first solution.8. The system of claim 1 , wherein disassociation of water in the first reactor is a source of protons that enter the first solution during the reduction of the charge carrier.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the disassociation of the water occurs in a separator between the first solution and an anolyte.10. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a bias source that includes one or more components selected from a photoelectrode claim 1 , a solar cell ...

Multi-junction photovoltaic cell having wide bandgap oxide conductor between subcells and method of making same

Increasing the power conversion efficiency of silicon (Si) photovoltaics is a key enabler for continued reductions in the cost of solar electricity. Disclosed herein is a multi-junction photovoltaic cell that does not utilize a conventional interconnection layer and instead places a wide bandgap oxide conductor, for example, a metal oxide such as TiO 2 , between a top light absorption layer having a relatively large bandgap and a bottom light absorption layer having a relatively small bandgap. The advantageous omission of a conventional interconnection layer between the two subcells is enabled by low contact resistivity between the top and bottom light absorbing layers provided by the wide bandgap oxide conductor. The absence of the conventional interconnect between the subcells significantly reduces both optical losses and processing steps. The disclosed photovoltaic cell may thus enable low-cost, high-efficiency multi-junction devices through less complex manufacturing processes and lower material costs.

SOLAR FUELS GENERATOR WITH PH SEPARATION

A solar fuels generator includes an anolyte and a catholyte in contact with a separator. The separator is configured such that the pH of the anolyte and the pH of the catholyte are each held at a steady state pH level during operation of the solar fuels generator. The steady state pH level of the anolyte is different from the steady state pH level of the catholyte. 1. A solar fuels generator , comprising:an anolyte reservoir;a catholyte reservoir,a anode in the anolyte reservoir,a photocathode in the catholyte reservoir,a separator between the anolyte reservoir and catholyte reservoir,an anolyte in the anolyte reservoir in contact with the separator and the anode, anda catholyte in the catholyte reservoir in contact with the separator and the photocathode,a pH of the anolyte being at a steady state pH level during operation of the solar fuels generator and a pH of the catholyte being at a steady state pH level during operation of the solar fuels generator, andthe steady state pH level of the anolyte being different from the steady state pH level of the catholyte.2. The generator of claim 1 , wherein water dissociates in the separator during the operation of the solar fuels generator.3. The generator of claim 1 , wherein hydroxide anions enter the anolyte from the separator during operation of the solar fuels generator and protons enter catholyte from the separator during operation of the solar fuels generator.4. The generator of claim 1 , wherein the solar fuels generator provides a solar-to-fuel (STF) conversion efficiency above 9% during operation of the solar fuels generator.5. The generator of claim 1 , wherein an absolute value of a difference between the steady state pH level of the anolyte and the steady state pH level of the catholyte is more than 5.6. The generator of claim 1 , wherein the separator includes an anion exchange membrane and a cation exchange membrane arranged such that a component of the anolyte and/or the catholyte cannot travel across the ...

Sensor arrays for detecting analytes in fluids

Chemical sensors for detecting analytes in fluids comprise first and second conductive elements (e.g. electrical leads) electrically coupled to and separated by a chemically sensitive resistor which provides an electrical path between the conductive elements. The resistor comprises a plurality of alternating nonconductive regions (comprising a nonconductive organic polymer) and conductive regions (comprising a conductive material) transverse to the electrical path. The resistor provides a difference in resistance between the conductive elements when contacted with a fluid comprising a chemical analyte at a first concentration, than when contacted with a fluid comprising the chemical analyte at a second different concentration. Arrays of such sensors are constructed with at least two sensors having different chemically sensitive resistors providing dissimilar such differences in resistance. Variability in chemical sensitivity from sensor to sensor is provided by qualitatively or quantitatively varying the composition of the conductive and/or nonconductive regions. An electronic nose for detecting an analyte in a fluid may be constructed by using such arrays in conjunction with an electrical measuring device electrically connected to the conductive elements of each sensor.

Techniques and systems for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte (810) is sensed by sensors (820) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals may be preprocessed (830) by filtering and amplification. In one embodiment, a plurality of sensors are formed on a single integrated circuit. The sensors may have diverse compositions.

Use of spatiotemporal response behavior in sensor arrays to detect analytes in fluids

Methods, systems and sensor arrays are provided implementing techniques for detecting an analyte in a fluid. The techniques include providing a sensor array including at least a first sensor and a second sensor in an arrangement having a defined fluid flow path, exposing the sensor array to a fluid including an analyte by introducing the fluid along the fluid flow path, measuring a response for the first sensor and the second sensor, and detecting the presence of the analyte in the fluid based on a spatio-temporal difference between the responses for the first and second sensors.

Sensor arrays for detecting analytes in fluids

Chemical sensors for detecting analytes in fluids comprise first and second conductive elements (e.g., electrical leads) electrically coupled to and separated by a chemically sensitive resistor which provides an electrical path between the conductive elements. The resistor comprises a plurality of alternating nonconductive regions (comprising a nonconductive organic polymer) and conductive regions (comprising a conductive material) transverse to the electrical path. The resistor provides a difference in resistance between the conductive elements when contacted with a fluid comprising a chemical analyte at a first concentration, than when contacted with a fluid comprising the chemical analyte at a second different concentration. Arrays of such sensors are constructed with at least two sensors having different chemically sensitive resistors providing dissimilar such differences in resistance. Variability in chemical sensitivity from sensor to sensor is provided by qualitatively or quantitatively varying the composition of the conductive and/or nonconductive regions. An electronic nose for detecting an analyte in a fluid may be constructed by using such arrays in conjunction with an electrical measuring device electrically connected to the conductive elements of each sensor.

Array of chemically sensitive capacitors

In an array of sensors (1310,1320), the capacitance of the sensor material is measured to determine the presence of an analyte. Each sensor in the array may include a different type of sensor material.

Polymer/plasticizer based sensor array

Methods and devices for concentration and purification of analytes for chemical analysis including matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (maldi) mass spectrometry (ms)

Analytical methods and devices are disclosed for separating low abundance analytes by electrophoretically driving the analytes through a sieving matrix to first remove high molecular weight species. Subsequently the remaining low abundance analytes are electrophoretically focused onto a capture membrane where the analytes become bound within a small capture site. After this step the capture membrane may be allowed to dry and then attached to a conductive MALDI sample plate.

Solar fuels generator

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode.

Colloidal particles used in sensing arrays

Polymer/plasticizer based sensors

This invention relates to a novel class of vapor sensors with tunable properties. More particularly, this invention relates to vapor sensors modified by the addition of a compatible small molecule of low volatility, i.e., a plasticizer. In certain aspects, the invention relates to a sensor for detecting an analyte in a fluid comprising: an organic polymer; a plasticizer combined with the organic polymer; and detector operatively associated with the organic polymer.

Compositionally different polymer-based sensor elements and methods for preparing same

The present invention provides a combinatorial approach for preparing arrays of chemically sensitive polymer-based sensors which are capable of detecting the presence of a chemical analyte in a fluid in contact therewith. The described methods and devices comprise combining varying ratios of at least first and second organic materials which, when combined, form a polymer or polymer blend that is capable of absorbing a chemical analyte, thereby providing a detectable response. The detectable response of the sensors prepared by this method is not linearly related to the mole fraction of at least one of the polymer-based components of the sensors, thereby making arrays of these sensors useful for a variety of sensing tasks.

Electronic techniques for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte (1810) is sensed by sensors (1820) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals are preprocessed (1830) by filtering and amplification. In an embodiment, this preprocessing includes adapting the sensor and electronics to the environment in which the analyte exists. The electrical signals are further processed (1840) to classify and identify the analyte, which may be by a neural network.

Method of resolving analytes in a fluid

A statistical metric, based on the magnitude and standard deviations along linear projections of clustered array response data, is utilized to facilitate an evaluation of the performance of detector arrays in various vapor classification tasks. This approach allows quantification of the ability of arrays of different types including carbon black-insulating polymer composite chemiresistor sensors, tin oxide sensors and bulk conducting organic polymer sensors to distinguish between analytes. The evaluation of questions such as the optimal number of detectors required for a specific task, whether improved performance is obtained by increasing the number of detectors in a detector array, and how to assess statistically the diversity of a collection of detectors in order to understand more fully which properties are underrepresented in a particular set of array elements, are addressed.

Semiconductor wire array structures, and solar cells and photodetectors based on such structures

A structure comprising an array of semiconductor structures, an infill material between the semiconductor materials, and one or more light-trapping elements is described. Photoconverters and photoelectrochemical devices based on such structure also described.

STRUCTURES OF AND METHODS FOR FORMING VERTICALLY ALIGNED Si WIRE ARRAYS

A structure consisting of vertically aligned wire arrays on a Si substrate and a method for producing such wire arrays. The wire arrays are fabricated and positioned on a substrate with an orientation and density particularly adapted for conversion of received light to energy. A patterned oxide layer is used to provide for wire arrays that exhibit narrow diameter and length distribution and provide for controlled wire position.

Use of an array of polymeric sensors of varying thickness for detecting analytes in fluids

Chemical sensors for detecting the activity of a molecule or analyte of interest is provided. The chemical sensors comprise and array or plurality of sensors that are capable of interacting with a molecule of interest, wherein the interaction provides a response fingerprint. The fingerprint can be associated with a library of similar molecules of interest to determine the molecule's activity and diffusion coefficient.

Proton exchange membrane electrolysis using water vapor as a feedstock

A light-driven electrolytic cell that uses water vapor as the feedstock and that has no wires or connections whatsoever to an external electrical power source of any kind. In one embodiment, the electrolytic cell uses a proton exchange membrane (PEM) with an IrRuOx water oxidation catalyst and a Pt black water reduction catalyst to consume water vapor and generate molecular oxygen and a chemical fuel, molecular hydrogen. The operation of the electrolytic cell using water vapor supplied by a humidified carrier gas has been demonstrated under varying conditions of the gas flow rate, the relative humidity, and the presence or absence of oxygen. The performance of the system with water vapor was also compared to the performance when the device was immersed in liquid water.

Photoelectrochemical cell

Abstract of the Disclosure Solid-liquid interface photoelectrochemical cells are pro-vided wherein the liquid phase comprises a nonaqueous sol-vent, an electrolyte dissolved therein forming an ionically conductive solution and a redox couple suitable to accept and donate electrons from and to the electrodes. The redox couple is present in an amount sufficient to sustain a predetermined current and the concentrations of the elec-trolyte and redox couple in the solution are sufficient to provide no greater than a selected small voltage drop rela-tive to the output voltage of the cell. The efficiency of conversion of light to electrical energy of such photo-electrochemical cells are 10% and greater.

Sensor arrays for detecting microorganisms

A sensor array for detecting a microorganism comprising first and second sensors electrically connected to an electrical measuring apparatus, wherein the sensors comprise a region of nonconducting organic material and a region of conducting material compositionally that is different than the nonconducting organic material and an electrical path through the regions of nonconducting organic material and the conducting material. A system for identifying microorganisms using the sensor array, a computer and a pattern recognition algorithm, such as a neural net are also disclosed.

Methods and devices for concentration and purification of analytes for chemical analysis including matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (maldi) mass spectrometry (ms)

Analytical methods and devices are disclosed for separating low abundance analytes by electrophoretically driving the analytes through a sieving matrix to first remove high molecular weight species. Subsequently the remaining low abundance analytes are electrophoretically focused onto a capture membrane where the analytes become bound within a small capture site. After this step the capture membrane may be allowed to dry and then attached to a conductive MALDI sample plate.

Electrical passivation of silicon-containing surfaces using organic layers

Electrical structures and devices may be formed and include an organic passivating layer (R) that is chemically bonded to a silicon-containing semiconductor material (Si) to improve the electrical properties of electrical devices. In different embodiments, the organic passivating layer (52, 62, 82) may remain within finished devices to reduce dangling bonds, improve carrier lifetimes, decrease surface recombination velocities, increase electronic efficiencies, or the like. In other embodiments, the organic passivating layer (114, 150) may be used as a protective sacrificial layer and reduce contact resistance or reduce resistance of doped regions. The organic passivation layer may be formed without the need for high-temperature processing.

Techniques and systems for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte ( 810 ) is sensed by sensors ( 820 ) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals may be preprocessed ( 830 ) by filtering and amplification. In one embodiment, a plurality of sensors are formed on a single integrated circuit. The sensors may have diverse compositions.

Electronic techniques for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte (1810) is sensed by sensors (1820) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals are preprocessed (1830) by filtering and amplification. In an embodiment, this preprocessing includes adapting the sensor and electronics to the environment in which the analyte exists. The electrical signals are further processed (1840) to classify and identify the analyte, which may be by a neural network.

Sensors for detecting analytes in fluids

Chemical sensors for detecting analytes in fluids comprise first and second conductive elements (e.g., electrical leads) electrically coupled to and separated by a chemically sensitive resistor which provides an electrical path between the conductive elements. The resistor comprises a plurality of alternating nonconductive regions (comprising a nonconductive organic polymer) and conductive regions (comprising a conductive material) transverse to the electrical path. The resistor provides a difference in resistance between the conductive elements when contacted with a fluid comprising a chemical analyte at a first concentration, than when contacted with a fluid comprising the chemical analyte at a second different concentration. Arrays of such sensors are constructed with at least two sensors having different chemically sensitive resistors providing dissimilar such differences in resistance. Variability in chemical sensitivity from sensor to sensor is provided by qualitatively or quantitatively varying the composition of the conductive and/or nonconductive regions. An electronic nose for detecting an analyte in a fluid may be constructed by using such arrays in conjunction with an electrical measuring device electrically connected to the conductive elements of each sensor.

Techniques and systems for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte (810) is sensed by sensors (820) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals may be preprocessed (830) by filtering and amplification. In one embodiment, a plurality of sensors are formed on a single integrated circuit. The sensors may have diverse compositions.

Trace level detection of analytes using artificial olfactometry

The present invention provides methods for detecting the presence of an analyte indicative of various medical conditions, including halitosis, periodontal disease and other diseases are also disclosed.

Techniques and systems for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte (810) is sensed by sensors (820) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals may be preprocessed (830) by filtering and amplification. In one embodiment, a plurality of sensors are formed on a single integrated circuit. The sensors may have diverse compositions.

Colloidal particles used in sensing arrays

Chemical sensors for detecting analytes in fluids comprising a plurality of alternating nonconductive regions (comprising a nonconductive material) and conductive regions (comprising a conductive material). In preferred embodiments, the conducting region comprises a nanoparticle. Variability in chemical sensitivity from sensor to sensor is provided by qualitatively or quantitatively varying the composition of the conductive and/or nonconductive regions. An electronic nose for detecting an analyte in a fluid may be constructed by using such arrays in conjunction with an electrical measuring device electrically connected to the conductive elements of each sensor.

Solar fuels generator

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode.

Medical applications of artificial olfactometry

The present invention provides methods for detecting the presence of an analyte indicative of various medical conditions, including halitosis, periodontal disease and other diseases are also disclosed.

Protecting the surface of a light absorber in a photoanode

A photoanode includes a passivation layer on a light absorber. The passivation layer is more resistant to corrosion than the light absorber. The photoanode includes a surface modifying layer that is location on the passivation layer such that the passivation layer is between the light absorber and the surface modifying layer. The surface modifying layer reduces a resistance of the passivation layer to conduction of holes out of the passivation layer.

Methods of use for sensor based fluid detection devices

A sensor (Fig 1) for detecting an analyte in a fluid comprising a substrate having a first organic material and a second organic material (21) that has a response to an analyte. The sensor has information storage and processing equipment (Fig 14a), and a fluid delivery appliance. This device compares a response (Fig 13) from the detector with a stored ideal response to detect the presence of analyte. Methods for use for the above system are described where the first organic material and the second organic material are sensed and the analyte is detected. The method provides for a device, which delivers fluid to the sensor and measures the response of the sensor with the detector. Further, the response is compared to a stored ideal response for the analyte to determine the presence of the analyte. In different embodiments, the fluid measured may be a gas, a liquid, or a fluid extracted from a solid.

Solar fuels generator

The solar fuels generator includes an ionically conductive separator between a gaseous first phase and a second phase. A photoanode uses one or more components of the first phase to generate cations during operation of the solar fuels generator. A cation conduit is positioned provides a pathway along which the cations travel from the photoanode to the separator. The separator conducts the cations. A second solid cation conduit conducts the cations from the separator to a photocathode.

Techniques and systems for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte ( 810 ) is sensed by sensors ( 820 ) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals may be preprocessed ( 830 ) by filtering and amplification. In one embodiment, a plurality of sensors are formed on a single integrated circuit. The sensors may have diverse compositions.

Methods of use for sensor based fluid detection devices

A sensor (Fig 1) for detecting an analyte in a fluid comprising a substrate having a first organic material and a second organic material (21) that has a response to an analyte. The sensor has information storage and processing equipment (Fig 14a), and a fluid delivery appliance. This device compares a response (Fig 13) from the detector with a stored ideal response to detect the presence of analyte. Methods for use for the above system are described where the first organic material and the second organic material are sensed and the analyte is detected. The method provides for a device, which delivers fluid to the sensor and measures the response of the sensor with the detector. Further, the response is compared to a stored ideal response for the analyte to determine the presence of the analyte. In different embodiments, the fluid measured may be a gas, a liquid, or a fluid extracted from a solid.

Semiconductor wire array structures, and solar cells and photodetectors based on such structures

A structure comprising an array of semiconductor structures, an infill material between the semiconductor materials, and one or more light-trapping elements is described. Photoconverters and photoelectrochemical devices based on such structure also described.

Methodology for forming pnictide compositions suitable for use in microelectronic devices

The present invention provides methods for making pnictide compositions, particularly photoactive and/or semiconductive pnictides. In many embodiments, these compositions are in the form of thin films grown on a wide range of suitable substrates to be incorporated into a wide range of microelectronic devices, including photovoltaic devices, photodetectors, light emitting diodes, betavoltaic devices, thermoelectric devices, transistors, other optoelectronic devices, and the like. As an overview, the present invention prepares these compositions from suitable source compounds in which a vapor flux is derived from a source compound in a first processing zone, the vapor flux is treated in a second processing zone distinct from the first processing zone, and then the treated vapor flux, optionally in combination with one or more other ingredients, is used to grow pnictide films on a suitable substrate.

Electronic techniques for analyte detection

Techniques are used to detect and identify analytes. Techniques are used to fabricate and manufacture sensors to detect analytes. An analyte (1810) is sensed by sensors (1820) that output electrical signals in response to the analyte. The electrical signals are preprocessed (1830) by filtering and amplification. In an embodiment, this preprocessing includes adapting the sensor and electronics to the environment in which the analyte exists. The electrical signals are further processed (1840) to classify and identify the analyte, which may be by a neural network.

Array of chemically sensitive capacitors

Method of making photovoltaic devices with reduced conduction band offset between pnictide absorber films and emitter films

The principles of the present invention are used to reduce the conduction band offset between chalcogenide emitter and pnictide absorber films. Alternatively stated, the present invention provides strategies to more closely match the electron affinity characteristics between the absorber and emitter components. The resultant photovoltaic devices have the potential to have higher efficiency and higher open circuit voltage. The resistance of the resultant junctions would be lower with reduced current leakage. In illustrative modes of practice, the present invention incorporates one or more tuning agents into the emitter layer in order to adjust the electron affinity characteristics, thereby reducing the conduction band offset between the emitter and the absorber. In the case of an n-type emitter such as ZnS or a tertiary compound such as zinc sulfide selenide (optionally doped with Al) or the like, an exemplary tuning agent is Mg when the absorber is a p-type pnictide material such as zinc phosphide or an alloy of zinc phosphide incorporating at least one additional metal in addition to Zn and optionally at least one non-metal in addition to phosphorus. Consequently, photovolotaic devices incorporating such films would demonstrate improved electronic performance.

Method of making photovoltaic devices incorporating improved pnictide semiconductor films using metallization/annealing/removal techniques

The present invention provides methods of making photovoltaic devices incorporating improved pnictide semiconductor films. In particular, the principles of the present invention are used to improve the surface quality of pnictide films. Photovoltaic devices incorporating these films demonstrate improved electronic performance. As an overview, the present invention involves a methodology that metalizes the pnictide film, anneals the metalized film under conditions that tend to form an alloy between the pnictide film and the alloy, and then removes the excess metal and at least a portion of the alloy. In one mode of practice, the pnictide semiconductor is Zinc phosphide and the metal is Magnesium.

Antimonate electrocatalyst for an electrochemical reaction

Method for reuse of wafers for growth of vertically-aligned wire arrays

Reusing a Si wafer for the formation of wire arrays by transferring the wire arrays to a polymer matrix, reusing a patterned oxide for several array growths, and finally polishing and reoxidizing the wafer surface and reapplying the patterned oxide.

Anordnung chemisch sensitiver kapazitoren

Verwendung eines räumlich-zeitlichen reaktionsverhaltens in sensor-arrays zur detektion von analyten in fluiden

Sensoranordnung zum nachweis van analyten in fluiden

Method of making photovoltaic devices incorporating improved pnictide semiconductor films

The present invention uses a treatment that involves an etching treatment that forms a pnictogen-rich region on the surface of a pnictide semiconductor film. The region is very thin in many modes of practice, often being on the order of only 2 to 3 nm thick in many embodiments. Previous investigators have left the region in place without appreciating the fact of its presence and/or that its presence, if known, can compromise electronic performance of resultant devices. The present invention appreciates that the formation and removal of the region advantageously renders the pnictide film surface highly smooth with reduced electronic defects. The surface is well-prepared for further device fabrication.

Antimonate electrocatalyst for an electrochemical reaction

Disclosed are stable, active non-precious metal oxide catalysts, such as transition metal antimonates (TMAs), for electrochemical reactions in harsh media conditions, such as the chlorine evolution reaction (CER). A disclosed electrocatalyst includes a metal oxide film containing a crystalline transition metal antimonite (TMA). The crystalline TMA may include NiSb 2 O x , CoSb 2 O x , or MnSb 2 O x . The metal oxide film may be formed on a conductive substrate, for example, a substrate including an antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO) film, using an annealing process.

Antimonate electrocatalyst for an electrochemical reaction

Disclosed are stable, active non-precious metal oxide catalysts, such as transition metal antimonates (TMAs), for electrochemical reactions in harsh media conditions, such as the chlorine evolution reaction (CER). A disclosed electrocatalyst includes a metal oxide film containing a crystalline transition metal antimonite (TMA). The crystalline TMA may include NiSb

Improved group iib/va semiconductors suitable for use in photovoltaic devices

The present invention relates to devices, particularly photovoltaic devices, incorporating Group IIB/VA semiconductors such phosphides, arsenides, and/or antimonides of one or more of Zn and/or Cd. In particular, the present invention relates to methodologies, resultant products, and precursors thereof in which electronic performance of the semiconductor material is improved by causing the Group IIB/VA semiconductor material to react with at least one metal-containing species (hereinafter co-reactive species) that is sufficiently co-reactive with at least one Group VA species incorporated into the Group IIB/VA semiconductor as a lattice substituent (recognizing that the same and/or another Group VA species also optionally may be incorporated into the Group IIB/VA semiconductor in other ways, e.g., as a dopant or the like).

Improved group iib/va semiconductors suitable for use in photovoltaic devices

The present invention relates to devices, particularly photovoltaic devices, incorporating Group IIB/VA semiconductors such phosphides, arsenides, and/or antimonides of one or more of Zn and/or Cd. In particular, the present invention relates to methodologies, resultant products, and precursors thereof in which electronic performance of the semiconductor material is improved by causing the Group IIB/VA semiconductor material to react with at least one metal-containing species (hereinafter co-reactive species) that is sufficiently co-reactive with at least one Group VA species incorporated into the Group IIB/VA semiconductor as a lattice substituent (recognizing that the same and/or another Group VA species also optionally may be incorporated into the Group IIB/VA semiconductor in other ways, e.g., as a dopant or the like).

Techniken und systeme zum nachweis von analyten

Method for reuse of wafers for growth of vertically-aligned wire arrays

Reusing a Si wafer for the formation of wire arrays by transferring the wire arrays to a polymer matrix, reusing a patterned oxide for several array growths, and finally polishing and reoxidizing the wafer surface and reapplying the patterned oxide.

Antimonate electrocatalyst for an electrochemical reaction

Disclosed are stable, active non-precious metal oxide catalysts, such as transition metal antimonates (TMAs), for electrochemical reactions in harsh media conditions, such as the chlorine evolution reaction (CER). A disclosed electrocatalyst includes a metal oxide film containing a crystalline transition metal antimonite (TMA). The crystalline TMA may include NiSb2Ox, CoSb2Ox, or MnSb2Ox. The metal oxide film may be formed on a conductive substrate, for example, a substrate including an antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO) film, using an annealing process.

Photoassisted high efficiency conversion of carbon-containing fuels to electricity

Electricity is generated by oxidizing a carbon-containing fuel in a photoelectrochemical fuel cell via a cyclic oxidation pathway to yield carbon dioxide and water, and collecting the electrons released via the cyclic oxidation pathway to yield a flow of electrons. The cyclic oxidation pathway includes a series of reactions including oxidation reactions, at least one of which is a photooxidation reaction. Photooxidation triggers one or more dark oxidation reactions, thereby increasing the efficiency of the photoelectrochemical fuel cell.

High-throughput screening and device for photocatalysts

The disclosure relates to compositions, devices and methods for screening of photocatalysts for water-splitting.

Semiconductor structures for fuel generation

This disclosure relates to photovoltaic and photoelectrosynthetic cells, devices, methods of making and using the same.