Artificial Intelligence Applications in Renewable Energy Device Development: Recent Advances and Emerging Trends
Abstract
The global energy transition has driven the search for more efficient technologies in the conversion and storage of energy from renewable sources. In this context, computational methods based on machine learning have emerged as essential tools for accelerating the development of new materials and devices. This review presents recent advances in the application of artificial intelligence algorithms for the design and optimization of solar cells, solid-state batteries, wind turbines, and electrolyzers for green hydrogen production. In the domain of photovoltaic cells, the development of high-efficiency perovskites stands out. Researchers at EPFL . . . Read full PDF
Accelerating Materials Discovery Using Machine Learning Techniques for Renewable Energy and Sustainability Solutions
Abstract
Advanced materials are key to the ongoing transition towards renewable energy and sustainability. Computational chemistry techniques enable the accelerated discovery of materials by speeding up exploration, providing mechanistic insights, and reducing costs compared to experimental research alone. Particularly promising approaches for accelerating computational discovery include machine learning (ML) and reasoning-based artificial intelligence (AI).1,2 Recent examples of materials discovery enabled by ML and AI in the areas of catalytic CO2 reduction and the screening of materials for CO2 capture and biohydrogen purification will be ... Read full PDF
Hydrogen Production by Ethanol-Assisted Electrolysis on Board of Vehicles for Their Electric Propulsion
Abstract
Hydrogen is one of the most in demand chemicals, it is used for ammonia production to produce fertilizers, in fuel cells to generate electrical energy, or burned to directly produce energy. Actually, the main way of producing hydrogen is through steam reforming, which involves reacting water with natural gas at high temperatures and pressures to separate water's oxygen and hydrogen atoms, but the inconvenience is the additional direct carbon dioxide emissions. Apart of this, the process is energy intensive and requires burning large amounts of fossil fuels. On the other side, electrolytic hydrogen produced by primary renewable energy sources is ... Read full PDF
Active Learning–Driven Design of g-C₃N₄ Photocatalysts for Solar CO₂ Reduction
Abstract
The photocatalytic reduction of CO₂ using solar energy is a promising strategy for sustainable fuel production, yet the rational design of efficient photocatalysts remains computationally expensive due to the large configurational space of materials, dopants, defects, and adsorption geometries. In this work, we investigate CO₂ reduction on graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄), a visible-light-responsive semiconductor, using Density Functional Theory calculations combined with an active learning framework. Pristine, doped, and defect-engineered g-C₃N₄ surfaces are systematically explored to evaluate electronic structure, band alignment, CO₂ ... Read full PDF
AI Paradoxes: Between Model Scalability and Energy Efficiency Limits
Abstract
The expansion of large-scale language models has introduced challenges that go beyond algorithmic innovation, directly impacting global energy infrastructure. This lecture analyzes the correlation between the operational costs of current models— reflected in token pricing and processing architectures—and the actual physical demand for electricity. Drawing on updated data from official sources, the presentation discusses how increasing computational capacity necessitates a revision of sustainability strategies and the responsible use of resources in data centers. From a physics education perspective, it proposes a technical analysis ... Read full PDF
Atomic Layer Deposition: A Precision Engineering Tool for Overcoming Material Challenges in Renewable Energy Devices
Abstract
Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) allows nanometer-scale thickness control and conformal coatings on complex 3D architectures, enabling breakthroughs in solar cell passivating contacts and battery interface stability... Read full PDF
Micro Hydropower as a Sustainable Solution to Energy Poverty in Rural Amazon: Technical-Ecological Issues
Abstract
The energy from large hydropower arrives at the rural grid, mainly through single- phase with ground return systems, which do not allow the implementation of small, efficient production systems, either because of a lack of equipment with single-phase motors, poor-quality energy, or the high cost of energy. Moreover, around one million people remain without access to electricity. To combat energy poverty in the Amazon, micro hydropower plants (MHPs) offer an attractive solution, given the thousands of small rivers in the region's watershed basins. The region's topology also dictates a very low-head (VLH) configuration. However, barriers ... Read full PDF
Wake rotation Analysis of Dual-Rotor Applied to Axial Turbines
Abstract
Dual-rotor turbines have been studied in recent years as an alternative to improve turbine performance. The use of dual rotors enables the extraction of residual energy from the flow after passing through the first rotor, increasing efficiency. This configuration of two rotors is especially important for horizontal axis hydrokinetic turbines, as depth is a big limitation in small rivers. However, there are still challenges on theories to explain how the second rotor depends on the first one. This study conducts a mathematical analysis of dual-rotor turbines, combining axial momentum theory applied to actuator disks, including wake rotation ... Read full PDF
How Atomic Edges Turn Carbon into Nanoscale Electronics
Abstract
The recent body of our work systematically demonstrates how atomic-scale geometry and edge configuration in newly proposed two-dimensional carbon allotropes and their derived nanoribbons control electronic structure and transport, enabling tunable resonant tunneling, negative differential resistance (NDR), and transitions between resonant and quasi-ohmic behaviour. Using first-principles electronic structure calculations combined with quantum transport (density functional theory + non- equilibrium Green’s functions or equivalent methodologies), these studies uncover robust, reproducible mechanisms by which geometry and topology produce device ... Read full PDF
Methodological Foundations: Preparation and Electrochemical Evaluation of Materials for Fuel Cell and Electrolyzer Electrocatalysts
Abstract
The transition from a synthesized catalyst powder to a high-performance electrode is one of the most sensitive steps in electrochemistry. This mini-course is designed to provide researchers and students with a rigorous framework for preparing catalytic inks and executing standardized evaluation protocols. The focus is strictly on the interface between the material and the electrochemical environment, ensuring reproducibility and accuracy in performance reporting. Course Syllabus: * Catalytic Ink Engineering: * Selection of dispersion media .... Read full PDF
Chemical Mapping of High-Temperature Deposited NiOx with XPS
Abstract
Non-stoichiometric nickel oxide (NiOx) is a promising inorganic hole transport layer (HTL) for per ovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, we investigate the evolution of chemical species and optoelectronic properties in ultra-thin NiOx films deposited via ion beam sputtering (IBSD) under varied thermal and oxidative treatments. We demonstrate that p-type conductivity, transparency, and band alignment in NiOx are governed directly by the concentration of Ni3+ related to nickel vacancies. Additionally, UV/Ozone exposure is shown to introduce NiOOH, enhancing surface wettability and increasing the work function by the creation of a surface dipole, improving charge ... Read full PDF