Vertical stacking of monolayers via van der Waals (vdW) assembly is an emerging field that opens promising routes toward engineering physical properties two-dimensional materials. Industrial exploitation these heterostructures as robust functional materials still requires bounding their measured so to enhance theoretical tractability and assist in experimental designs. Specifically, the short-range attractive vdW forces are responsible for adhesion chemically inert components recognized play...

We present a paraffin–silicone composite with improved opaque–transparent switching. discuss the potential use of material as thermally activate transparent–reflective switch and theoretical model its behavior based on light scattering theory. Means improving switching performance are proposed.

In this work, we study the surface energy of monolayer, bilayer and multilayer graphene coatings, produced through exfoliation natural graphite flakes chemical vapor deposition. We employ bimodal atomic force microscopy micro-Raman spectroscopy for high spatial resolution large area scanning adhesion on regions graphene/SiO2 with different layers. Our measurements show that interface conditions between SiO2 dominate experimentally observed energy. This finding sheds new light controversy...

Abstract For the third time in a decade, solar energy pricing records are tumbling Persian Gulf. As each previous wave of new was met with incredulity, only for these prices to become normal around world within few years, it would be unwise once again dismiss low as unrepresentative outliers. In this study, we show how local conditions and global macroeconomic factors have conspired bring into regime extreme affordability region argue that Gulf market, especially United Arab Emirates Saudi...

Atomically thin, two-dimensional (2D) indium selenide (InSe) has attracted considerable attention because of the dependence its bandgap on sample thickness, making it suitable for small-scale optoelectronic device applications. In this work, by use Raman spectroscopy with three different laser wavelengths, including 488, 532, and 633 nm, representing resonant, near-resonant, conventional nonresonant conditions, a conclusive understanding thickness lattice vibrations electronic band structure...

Abstract Multiphase TiO 2 was stably modified by vacuum treatment for a dramatic improvement in visible‐light absorption and photocatalytic reactivity. The samples were made of rutile‐brookite, bare or N doped, grown on reduced graphene oxide. stable introduction Ti 3+ species oxygen vacancies resulting mitigated electron–hole recombination identified as the main responsible factor, along with change surface charges.

The need for a high optical spectrum throughput, conductivity, and controlled energy levels of transparent conductive oxide used in solar cells stresses the development novel materials that help reduce existing dependency on indium-based oxides. ZnO is promising material this context, work, we demonstrate how Hf doping films allows engineering both electrical properties to fit requirements different cell architectures materials. We focus lightly doped domain where substitution believed be...

In this manuscript we evaluate the potential of photovoltaic systems to meet some dedicated energy demand in specific geographic locations. Our approach is based on location-specific constraints rather than pre-established, location-independent methodologies or assumptions. First, propose that a thorough analysis socio-economic and technical possibilities location must act as guide optimize deployment renewables. This requires detailed knowledge area. Second, optimizing exploitation...

This study assesses the potential of transparent, tracking-integrated CPV to facilitate more effective dual-use land for simultaneous agricultural and solar energy production. The concept leverages on fact that a concentration system is natural light splitter, separating direct radiation from diffuse. Therefore transparent module using multijunction cells can generate large supply electrical power while preserving diffuse component sunlight other uses – in this case, illuminate crops. We...

Maintaining reliable energy supplies with resilience to extreme weather, water shortage and rising electricity cooling demand is crucial successfully implementing the clean transition. The integrated power systems found in several hyper-arid countries, featuring cooling-driven electrical near-total dependence on seawater desalination, offer case studies illustrating system robustness these conditions. We use linear optimization minimize costs a model based resiliency-oriented of United Arab...

We present a proof of concept demonstration novel optical element: light-responsive aperture that can track moving light beam. The element is created using thermally-activated transparency-switching material composed paraffin wax and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Illumination the with focused beam causes formation localized transparency at focal spot location, due to local heating caused by absorption portion incident light. An application proposed in new design for self-tracking solar collector.

Spectrum splitting represents a valid alternative to multi-junction solar cells for broadband light-to-electricity conversion. While this concept has existed decades, its adoption at the industrial scale is still stifled by high manufacturing costs and inability large areas. Here we report experimental validation of novel design that could allow widespread spectrum as low-cost approach efficiency photovoltaic Our system consists prismatic lens can be manufactured using same methods employed...

Abstract Two-dimensional metal dichalcogenide/monochalcogenide thin flakes have attracted much attention owing to their remarkable electronic and electrochemical properties; however, chemical instability limits applications. Chemical vapor transport (CVT)-synthesized SnTiS 3 exhibit misfit heterojunction structure are highly stable in ambient conditions, offering a great opportunity exploit the properties of two distinct constituent materials: semiconductor SnS semi-metal TiS 2 . We...

Forecasting energy demand within a distribution network is essential for developing strategies to manage and optimize available resources the associated infrastructure. In this study, we consider remote communities in Arctic located at end of radial without alternative supply. Therefore, it crucial develop an accurate forecasting model limited available. We first compare accuracy several models that perform short-and medium-term load forecasts rural areas, where single industrial customer...

Establishing the presence or absence of nanoscale compositional heterogeneity with resolution is becoming instrumental for development many fields science. Force versus distance measurements and parameters directly indirectly derived from these profiles can be potentially employed this purpose sophisticated instruments such as atomic force microscope (AFM). On other hand, standards are necessary to reproducibly conclusively support hypothesis experimental data still emerging. Here, we define...

This decade has seen the transition of solar energy from a subsidy-dependent "alternative" to mainstream, low-cost generation technology across much world. The oil-producing Arab Gulf states have been unlikely pioneers in this transition, with United Emirates repeatedly setting pricing records for utility-scale solar. Despite having lower resource than many other desert locations, extreme high temperatures and relatively immature industry, UAE was able realize record-low electricity prices,...