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Research 2026년 06월 18일 목요일

Game-Changing Interface Coating Enables Scalable, High-Efficiency Perovskite/Silicon Solar Cells

Abstract Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) represent an effective strategy for the development of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). High-performance PSCs are typically fabricated in an inert atmosphere because ambient moisture disrupts phosphonic-acid SAMs on transparent conductive oxides, leading to surface inhomogeneity and direct exposure of the transparent conductive oxide. However, this dependence on glovebox fabrication constraints scalability and cost-effective manufacturing. Here we present a ternary self-assembled molecular contact comprising glycerol dimethacrylate and 1-acetylguanidine that serves as a process-tolerant hole-selective contact. Glycerol dimethacrylate acts as a cosolvent during SAM deposition to improve film uniformity and is subsequently transformed into a hydrophilic binary network upon mild thermal curing, firmly anchoring the SAM to the substrate, whereas 1-acetylguanidine is incorporated to further suppress interfacial defects. Wide-bandgap PSCs fabricated in ambient conditions achieve a power conversion efficiency of 21.20% (1.00 cm2), with an open-circuit voltage of 1.28 V. When implemented in monolithic perovskite/silicon tandems, cells achieve a power conversion efficiency of 31.72% (certified 31.36%) and 32.60% for fabrication in ambient and inert conditions, respectively. These findings demonstrate that our tailored hole-selective contact provides a robust and process-tolerant interfacial engineering approach for high-efficiency perovskite and tandem photovoltaics manufactured under ambient conditions. UNIST, in collaboration with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), has developed a groundbreaking coating that unlocks large-scale, ambient-condition production of high-performance perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells. Led by Distinguished Professor Sang Il Seok of the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering and Professor Kyoung Jin Choi of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, the team engineered a three-component interface layer that ensures uniform coverage and reduces defects during fabrication. This innovation allows the production of tandem cells outside of costly, sealed environments—an essential step toward commercialization. The resulting devices achieved a certified efficiency of 31.36%, with peak performance reaching 31.72%. Remarkably, they maintained over 92% of their initial efficiency after 600 hours in oxygen-rich, high-temperature conditions, and over 90% after 1,000 hours under continuous illumination—all without encapsulation. This technology not only delivers record efficiencies but also simplifies manufacturing, drastically reducing costs and enabling large-area production in standard environments. It paves the way for affordable, high-efficiency solar solutions that can be deployed at scale. The research team includes Gwisu Kim and Young Im Noh from UNIST, and Adi Prasetio from KAUST as first co-authors. The corresponding authors are Professors Sang Il Seok and Kyoung Jin Choi from UNIST, and Professor Stefaan De Wolf from KAUST. Contributions also came from researchers from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHKSZ) and Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH (FZJ) in Germany. Professor Choi states, “Our findings align with the K-Moonshot Project, a national initiative focused on developing ultra-high-efficiency multi-junction solar cells, which brings us closer to realizing practical and affordable solar energy.” Professor Seok adds, “Demonstrating stability and high efficiency in open air indicates that the technology is ready for industrial-scale production.” Published in Nature Photonics on June 1, this breakthrough was supported by Hyundai Motor Company, the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the Ministry of Science, and ICT (MSIT), the Korea Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning Agency (KETEP), and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE). Journal Reference Gwisu Kim, Adi Prasetio, Young Im Noh, et al., “Ternary self-assembled molecular contact for ambient-processed perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells,” Nat. Photon. , (2026).

Research 2026년 06월 17일 수요일

Roll-to-Roll Manufacturing of Ruthenium-Loaded Carbon Fiber Electrodes for Efficient Hydrogen Production

Abstract Carbon fiber-based electrocatalysts offer significant advantages over conventional powder catalysts, including enhanced active site exposure, superior conductivity, faster reaction rates, lower costs, and improved stability under harsh conditions. In this study, we introduce a rapid and scalable method for spinning carbon-supported metal catalysts into their fibrous forms to achieve uniform catalyst structures that enable roll-to-roll manufacturing. We demonstrate uniform ruthenium (Ru) nanoparticle-loaded carbon fibers by spinning polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-Ru phenanthroline complexes and annealing at 1200 °C for the optimum Ru particle size distribution. We found that the interaction of the Ru complex with the nitrile (−C≡N) group of PAN enabled rheological control and ensured monodisperse Ru confinement. Our investigation of the mechanism details the microstructural evolution during carbonization and oxygen plasma treatment, showing exceptional enhancement in the performance of Ru-embedded carbon fabric electrocatalysts. Ultimately, our rheology-driven spinning protocol bridges the gap between laboratory-scale synthesis and industrial manufacturing of fabric electrocatalysts, providing a versatile platform for nanoconfinement that offers critical insights into the structural evolution of metal–polymer nanocomposites for next-generation energy applications. A research team affiliated with UNIST has introduced a scalable process to produce long-lasting, fiber-shaped electrodes for water electrolysis, paving the way for large-scale hydrogen production. Professor Han Gi Chae of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Professor Jong-Beom Baek of the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering collaborated with Professor Cafer T. Yavuz at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Traditional electrodes rely on coating catalysts onto conductive substrates, often using binders that block active surfaces. In contrast, these new fibers act as both support and conductor, allowing water and electrolytes to flow freely and hydrogen to escape efficiently. Central to this method is the embedding of ruthenium particles within the polymer fibers, resulting in improved catalyst dispersion and durability. By mixing a viscous polymer-Ru precursor and extruding it through a nozzle, the team produced continuous fibers. When heat-treated at 1200°C, these fibers develop a uniform distribution of catalytic nanoparticles inside and on the surface, preventing clumping and ensuring consistent activity. Achieving this required precise control over the interaction between the Ru precursor and the polymer. The researchers optimized the conditions to maintain even dispersion during fiber formation. They further enhanced the surface exposure of catalytic sites through oxygen plasma treatment, significantly improving performance and stability. Testing showed that these fibers could operate continuously for more than 170 hours at a high current density of 500 mA/cm² without degradation. Their catalytic activity surpassed that of conventional platinum electrodes, highlighting their potential for practical applications. The study was primarily led by Dr. Ga-Hyeun Lee from UNIST and Professor Seok-Jin Kim from KAUST, who served as the first authors, with researcher Inkyung Baek contributing as a co-author. This research offers new insights into the microstructural evolution of metal-polymer nanocomposites and demonstrates a scalable approach to fabricating fiber electrodes for efficient hydrogen production. Professor Chae noted, “Embedding metal catalysts uniformly within carbon fibers enhances electrode stability. This technique could extend beyond water electrolysis to other catalytic systems where durability and uniform reactivity are crucial.” The research was published in ACS Nano (Impact Factor: 16.1, Cite Score: 24.2)Impact Factor: 16.1, Cite Score: 24.2) on May 7, and supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), the Ministry of Education (MOE), and the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF). Journal Reference Ga-Hyeun Lee, Seok-Jin Kim, Jung-Eun Lee , et al., “Rheological Pathways to a Scalable Ruthenium Nuclei-Anchored Carbon Fiber Catalyst,” ACS Nano, (2026).

Research 2026년 05월 27일 수요일

New Research Reveals High-Performance Organic Solar Cells Surpassing AI Predictions

Abstract Descriptor-based artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a paradigm for molecular design in organic solar cells (OSCs); However, it inherently overlooks collective effects governed by bond hybridization, intermolecular coupling, and aggregation thermodynamics. Such effects are encoded at the solution stage, where pre-aggregation of photoactive materials dictates nucleation pathways, phase separation, and molecular ordering during film formation. Herein, we introduce a YBOV non-fullerene acceptor featuring sp2-hybridized branched side chains that exhibit an unprecedentedly strong solution-state pre-aggregation propensity. This behavior translates into highly ordered solid films with a densely packed crystalline microstructure, enabled by a thermodynamically stabilized core–terminal dimer. As a result, incorporation of YBOV into OSCs not only outperforms the benchmark L8-BO-based device, but also confers an effective nucleation seeding-agent function across diverse host OSC platforms, delivering efficiencies of up to 19.67% via green-solvent processing by alleviating the intrinsic current–voltage trade-off. Machine-learning predictions largely match experimental photovoltaic parameters with a slight upward bias, except for open-circuit voltage, which exhibits anomalous behavior driven by pre-aggregation–driven seeding effects beyond descriptor-based AI. This work establishes sp2-hybridized branched side chains as a new molecular design principle, introducing pre-aggregation-enabled seeding effects beyond AI prediction and providing a universal strategy for high-performance OSCs. Researchers from UNIST and Sungkyunkwan University have created a new type of organic solar cell (OSC) that outperforms existing predictions and highlights a hidden factor in device performance. The secret lies in how molecules clump together in solution—a phenomenon that traditional AI models overlook. Professor Changduk Yang from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, in collaboration with Professor Doo-Hyun Ko from Sungkyunkwan University, reported a new OSC with a power conversion efficiency (PEC) of 19.67% through a clean, environmentally friendly process. OSCs are lightweight, flexible, and capable of covering large surfaces. They can be integrated into building facades, windows, and wearable devices. The manufacturing process involves dissolving organic materials in solvents and coating them onto substrates—an approach that's simple and scalable. The researchers designed a new molecule, named YBOV, with branched side chains that promote strong pre-aggregation in solution. This aggregation acts like a seed during film formation, guiding molecules to pack more orderly. The result is a crystalline, densely packed active layer that improves charge flow and boosts efficiency. Notably, devices made with YBOV achieved high performance even when produced with eco-friendly ortho-xylene solvent, avoiding toxic chlorinated options. YBOV also proved versatile. When added to different donor materials or used as an acceptor in various blends, it consistently increased device efficiency. Its aggregation behavior enhances performance across a range of formulations. However, this clustering effect escapes prediction by standard AI models. When trained on 750 device measurements, the models underestimated the open-circuit voltage for YBOV-based cells. This shows that AI, which predicts based on molecular structure alone, cannot fully capture the collective behaviors that influence real-world performance. “Our work introduces a new design principle,” said the research team. “It considers how molecules behave in solution—something AI cannot currently predict. Combining this insight with eco-friendly processing opens new paths for commercializing high-performance, sustainable organic solar cells.” Supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the InnoCore program of the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), the study involved Seokhwan Jeong, Donghoo Won, and Zhe Sun from UNIST who contributed equally. The findings of this research were published in Advanced Energy Materials on April 20, 2026. Journal Reference Seokhwan Jeong, Donghoo Won, Zhe Sun, et al ., “Beyond Descriptor-Based AI Design: Sp2-Hybridized Branched Side Chains Enable Pre-Aggregation–Driven Seeding Effects in Green-Solvent-Processed Organic Solar Cells,” Adv. Energy Mater., (2026).

Research 2026년 05월 26일 화요일

New Study Unveils Water-Responsive Luminescent Material

Abstract Hydrogel-based photonic systems integrating luminescent emitters offer promise as soft, reconfigurable optical platforms, yet most designs lack internal optical engineering to control light propagation and confinement. Here, we present a lithographically programmable soft-photonic platform in which upconversion nanocrystals (UCNs) encapsulated within fluorocarbon nanoemulsion droplets are embedded in a poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogel microdome. Upon drying, strong refractive index contrast between the PEGDA matrix and fluorocarbon droplets creates a cooperative optical microenvironment that structures the near-infrared (NIR) excitation beam into a speckle-like field with localized hot spots while extending the photon dwell time within the microdome via internal reflection-based waveguiding. These effects yield a fully reversible, greater than sevenfold enhancement of upconversion luminescence—well beyond simple concentration or mechanical densification. This optical gain originates from multiple-scattering-assisted speckle excitation activated only in the contracted microdome state. Because UCNs are pumped by invisible NIR speckle illumination that rapidly varies in 3D across the microdome height, the incoherent sum of the photoluminescence manifests as a homogeneous filter-free visible brightness increase. The hydrogel microdomes, fabricated via a customized digital micromirror device (DMD)-based microlithography, enable high-resolution patterning of moisture-responsive displays, multicolor emission motifs, and reversible QR-code encryption, establishing a scalable route toward speckle-engineered soft photonic systems.' Researchers at UNIST have created a new material that dims when it absorbs moisture. This innovation could lead to water-sensitive security features, humidity sensors, and environmental-reactive displays. Led by Professor Jiseok Lee from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering and Professor Jung-Hoon Park from the Department of Biomedical Engineering, the team developed a hydrogel with embedded upconversion nanocrystals (UCNs). When dry, the material glows more than seven times brighter than when wet. The core design involves oil droplets trapped inside a hydrogel dome. When near-infrared (NIR) light hits the nanocrystals, they emit visible light. In this structure, scattering within the oil droplets traps the light, boosting brightness. When the hydrogel absorbs water, its internal scattering drops, and the glow fades. The team demonstrated how this material can hide and reveal information. In one test, a hidden pattern beneath the hydrogel becomes visible only when water is applied, as the glow weakens. They also created QR codes that are scannable when dry but vanish when wet, making them useful for anti-counterfeiting. Durability stood out. The material retained consistent brightness over 100 wet-dry cycles, with less than 4% variation. It responds rapidly—within 0.1 seconds—fading visibly in seconds after contact with water. Lead author Chaeyeong Ryu said, “We improved brightness by designing the light pathways inside the hydrogel, without changing the nanocrystals. This makes the material ideal for moisture-triggered devices.” Professor Lee added, “The ability to program the color and pattern of the hydrogel microdome, combined with simple manufacturing, opens new paths for security, sensors, and displays across industries.” The findings of this research have been published in Advanced Functional Materials on April 20, 2026. This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). Journal Reference Chaeyeong Ryu, Byungcheon Yoo, Seunghun Lee, et al ., “Speckle-Engineered Upconversion Amplification in Nanoemulsion-Templated Hydrogel Microdomes,” Adv. Funct. Mater. , (2026).

Research 2026년 05월 15일 금요일

New Study Unveils High-Performance Dye-Sensitized Electrode for Artificial Photosynthesis

Abstract Dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cells hold promise for artificial photosynthesis but face challenges such as low photocurrents and limited stability. To address these limitations, a cascade-type dye-sensitized photoelectrode is developed by encapsulating a dye-sensitized TiO2 layer and redox mediator within platinum-sputtered nickel foil. This buried-junction design enables spatially controlled cascade charge transfer, featuring effective photoconversion and Ni-catalyzed water oxidation, while suppressing undesirable recombination current leakage. Through a comprehensive study involving the selection of redox mediators and water oxidation catalysts, the best-performing photoelectrode for water splitting achieves a photocurrent of 14.0 mA cm−2 at 0.72 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), a Faradaic efficiency of 98%, and photostability of 30 hours. Moreover, the versatility of our design extends to bias-free H2O2 production, achieving a photocurrent density of 7.83 mA cm−2, a Faradaic efficiency of 92.2%, and a record-high solar-to-fuel efficiency of 4.15% (2.13 µmol min−1 cm−2), with photostability of 150 hours. A research team at UNIST has introduced an innovative dye-sensitized electrode that marks a significant leap in artificial photosynthesis technology. Demonstrating exceptional efficiency and durability, the system can produce hydrogen peroxide solely using sunlight—bringing us closer to sustainable chemical manufacturing. Led by Professor Tae-Hyuk Kwon from the Department of Chemistry and Professor Ji-Wook Jang from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, the team developed an electrode that mimics natural electron-transfer processes in plants. The device features an organic dye layer combined with a redox mediator, encapsulated within a nickel foil structure. This configuration facilitates a cascade-like, stepwise electron transfer—from the dye to the mediator, then to the nickel substrate, and ultimately to the catalyst—minimizing charge loss and enhancing stability. Unlike conventional designs with dyes exposed directly to electrolytes, this architecture prevents degradation and significantly prolongs operational lifespan. The electrode achieved a Faradaic efficiency of 98% in water splitting and demonstrated stable performance over 150 hours. When used for sunlight-driven hydrogen peroxide production, it attained a solar-to-fuel efficiency of 4.15%, setting a new global record without requiring external voltage. “By optimizing the electrode interface, we were able to enhance efficiency and durability simultaneously,” explained Professor Kwon. “This environmentally friendly system paves the way for sustainable production of valuable chemicals using solar energy.” According to the research team, this breakthrough addresses core challenges in artificial photosynthesis—namely, efficiency, stability, and environmental safety—paving the path toward scalable, renewable fuel and chemical production. Its simplicity and eco-friendly design hold great promise for future applications in green chemistry and renewable energy. This research was participated by researchers Jun-Hyeok Park, Kyounglim Kim, and Jinyoung Lee as the first co-authors. The findings of this research have been published in Advanced Functional Materials on April 13, 2026. Journal Reference Jun-Hyeok Park, Kyounglim Kim, Jinyoung Lee, et al., "Bias-Free Highly Efficient and Stable Dye-Sensitized Photoelectrochemical Cells via Cascade Charge Transfer," Adv. Funct. Mater., (2026).

Community 2026년 04월 28일 화요일

Professor Hyunhyub Ko Honored with Presidential Commendation for Bio-Inspired Sensor Innovations

UNIST announced that Professor Hyunhyub Ko, Head of the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, has been awarded a Presidential Commendation at the commemorative ceremony for the 2026 Science and Information & Communications Day, recognizing his contributions to bio-inspired electronic devices that replicate human sensory functions. Professor Ko's research focuses on translating human senses—including touch, taste, and hearing—into flexible electronic systems. His team has developed electronic skin modeled after human fingertips, capable of simultaneously detecting pressure, fine texture, and temperature. This work has been extended to artificial sensory platforms, including electronic tongues that can distinguish complex taste profiles such as astringency, and acoustic sensors inspired by the human cochlea that differentiate sound frequencies. The group has also created ultrathin, transparent speakers and microphones that can be applied directly to the skin, opening new possibilities for wearable devices and human–machine interfaces. Beyond device development, Professor Ko has advanced functional materials inspired by natural systems. His work includes MXene-based nanochannels that regulate ion transport in response to light, as well as temperature-responsive adhesive systems modeled after octopus suction structures. These technologies are widely regarded as enabling components for next-generation applications, including tactile robotics, wearable healthcare systems, immersive virtual and augmented reality, and broader Internet of Things (IoT) and human–machine interface platforms. Since joining UNIST in 2010, Professor Ko has published 168 peer-reviewed international journal articles. His work has received more than 21,000 citations, with an h-index of 75, reflecting sustained global research impact. “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our research group,” Professor Ko said. “I am deeply grateful to all members of the lab who have contributed to this work.” The award was presented at the 2026 Science and Information & Communications Day, held in Seoul on April 21, 2026. A total of 164 individuals were honored at the event, including 22 recipients of Presidential Commendations in the field of science and technology.

Research 2026년 04월 23일 목요일

Innovative Scalable Electrochemical Approach for Transforming Waste Glycerol into Hydrogen and High-Value Chemicals

Abstract Interest in electrochemical glycerol oxidation reactions (GORs) continues to grow as a promising strategy for hydrogen production. By replacing the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), GOR reduces energy consumption while generating hydrogen at the cathode and value-added formate at the anode, offering techno-economic advantages over conventional water electrolysis. However, its practical implementation is still hindered by reliance on precious metal catalysts and performance losses in scaled-up systems. Here, we synthesized a non-precious CuCo oxide (CCO) electrocatalyst at a tens-of-grams scale through co-precipitation and simple surface treatment. When applied to an anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzer, the modified CuCo oxide achieved 110 mA cm−2 at 1.31 Vcell using a 7 cm2 non-precious GOR anode with 96% formate selectivity. The system was further scaled to a 79 cm2 anode, delivering 3.2 A at 1.31 Vcell. This study demonstrates a practical and economically favorable pathway for scalable hydrogen production via glycerol valorization in AEM electrolyzers. A joint research team, led by Professors Ji-Wook Jang, Hankwon Lim, and Hosik Lee from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at UNIST, in collaboration with Dr. Juchan Yang from the Energy & Environment Materials Research Division at Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS), has announced the development of a high-performance, scalable electrochemical system that transforms waste glycerol—an industrial byproduct of biodiesel production—into hydrogen and value-added chemicals, such as formate. This innovative system replaces the conventional oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water electrolysis with glycerol oxidation, resulting in reduced energy consumption and enhanced efficiency. Using a copper-cobalt oxide catalyst, the system a current density of 110 mA/cm² at just 1.31 V, with 96% selectivity for formate. The technology was successfully scaled to a 79 cm² electrode, demonstrating its potential for industrial applications. This advancement provides a sustainable, cost-effective pathway for large-scale hydrogen production through glycerol valorization. By simultaneously generating hydrogen and valuable chemicals from waste biomass, the approach promises significant reductions in green hydrogen costs and improved resource efficiency. Additionally, integrating energy and chemical manufacturing processes supports global efforts toward carbon neutrality and a sustainable hydrogen economy. Moreover, its scalability and compatibility with continuous operation suggest promising prospects for industrial deployment and further scale-up to megawatt-level systems. Juchan Yang, Principal Researcher at KIMS, emphasizes, “This study demonstrates the large-scale synthesis of low-cost, non-precious catalysts and their successful integration into a practical electrolyzer system, marking a significant step toward commercial viability.” Professor Ji-Wook Jang of UNIST adds, “Transforming biomass waste like glycerol into high-value chemicals and hydrogen not only accelerates carbon neutrality but also offers strategic advantages in building a sustainable hydrogen economy.” The findings of this research were published online in Joule (IF: 35.4) on March 18, 2026. The study was supported by the National Research Council of Science & Technology (NST), the Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning (KETEP), the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), and the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KEIT). Core analyzes and computational modeling were conducted using supercomputing resources provided by the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), with technical support, as well as the synchrotron radiation source at the 6D beamline of the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory. Journal Reference Ki-Yong Yoon, Seon Woo Hwang, Hee Yoon Roh et al. , “Commercial-scale glycerol valorization using surface-modified copper cobalt oxide catalyst in high-capacity anion exchange membrane electrolyzer,” Joule , (2026).

Research 2026년 04월 14일 화요일

Turning Solar Panel Waste into Hydrogen and High-Value Silica

Summary Although Earth's abundant silicon (Si) is thermodynamically reactive with water to produce hydrogen (H2) and silicon oxide (SiO2, silica), the Si-water reaction is kinetically self-limited by the silica passivation layer that spontaneously forms on Si surfaces. If this limitation of the Si-water reaction can be overcome, hydrogen (H2) can be directly produced from water. Here, we demonstrate that “dynamic” mechanochemistry can overcome the self-limitation of the Si-water reaction, without using corrosive additives, to reach the theoretical limit. As one real-world application, upcycling end-of-life silicon solar panels was performed, with techno-economic analysis suggesting the strong competitiveness of the proposed method for the Si-water reaction. High-purity hydrogen (∼100%) gas and solid silica as a value-added product were produced under a separation-free process. In response to the growing accumulation of end-of-life solar panels, researchers at UNIST have unveiled an innovative, environmentally friendly method to convert photovoltaic silicon into high-purity hydrogen and valuable silica. Led by Professor Jong-Beom Baek from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at UNIST, this breakthrough promises to revolutionize solar panel recycling and sustainable hydrogen production. The team led by Professor Jong-Beom Baek developed a mechanochemical process that overcomes the self-limiting silica passivation layer on silicon surfaces. By placing silicon and water with small abrasive beads into a rotating vessel, repeated mechanical collisions strip the silica layer, enabling the reaction to proceed to nearly its theoretical maximum. Experimental results show approximately 1,706 mL of hydrogen per gram of silicon—achieving 99.6% of the maximum yield, significantly surpassing conventional thermochemical methods. Moreover, the silica byproduct serves as an effective catalyst support. When used with nickel catalysts, it enhances carbon dioxide conversion and methane selectivity, thanks to its high surface hydroxyl density that improves catalyst dispersion. “By leveraging waste silicon from decommissioned solar panels, our process produces high-purity hydrogen efficiently while also recovering valuable silica for industrial applications,” says Professor Jong-Beom Baek. “This approach not only advances sustainable energy but also contributes to resource circularity and environmental protection.” This technology offers a cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally benign alternative to traditional photovoltaic waste management. Operating continuously, the process boasts higher productivity and energy efficiency, making it suitable for industrial deployment. It paves the way for a circular economy in solar energy, transforming waste into valuable resources and supporting the global shift toward clean hydrogen. The findings of this research were published in the online version of Joule on March 27 and were highlighted in the journal's Future Energy section. The study has been supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF). Journal Reference Yanhua Shao, Runnan Guan, Jiwon Gu, et al ., “Reaching the theoretical limit of H2 production from the self-limiting silicon-water reaction via dynamic mechanochemistry,” Joule , (2026).

Research 2026년 04월 09일 목요일

New Study Unveils Mussel-Inspired Coating for Rapid Radioactive Surface Decontamination

Abstract Efficient and rapid decontamination of radioactive elements is important to prevent radioactive exposure. Herein, we develop a strippable catechol-terminated polyurethane (CPU) coating for effective surface decontamination. Our polyurethane coating can be directly applied to contaminated surfaces via simple spraying or solution casting, followed by rapid drying at room temperature. The resulting coating is easily stripped off with sufficient toughness and adhesion strength, showing superior 137Cs removal efficiency on stainless steel (∼94.9%) and rough cement (∼59.1%), in a much shorter time (<3 h) compared to commercial decontamination coatings (∼93.8% on stainless steel and ∼8.4% on cement after 24 h). This performance can be attributed to the strong adhesion and cohesion mediated by catechol moieties. Furthermore, after use, the coating waste is readily dissolvable in acetone, suggesting potential for reducing radioactive waste with the aid of an appropriate separation process, thereby preventing secondary contamination. These results establish CPU as a promising radioactive decontamination strategy. Professor Dong Woog Lee from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at UNIST, in collaboration with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) have unveiled a novel, mussel-inspired polyurethane coating capable of removing over 95% of radioactive cesium from surfaces in just three hours—far faster than existing methods. This breakthrough promises to enhance safety and efficiency in nuclear decontamination efforts. The innovative coating utilizes catechol groups—derived from mussel adhesion proteins—attached to polyurethane polymer chains, creating a highly adhesive surface. Applied onto contaminated surfaces, the coating dries within hours and can be peeled off like tape, effectively removing radioactive particles. Laboratory tests demonstrated a cesium removal efficiency of 94.9% on stainless steel and 13.1% on porous cement surfaces after two applications, outperforming commercial products that typically require 24 hours. Additionally, the coating can be dissolved in acetone post-use, enabling waste separation and reducing secondary contamination. Dr. Heeman Yang, lead researcher from KAERI, stated, “This technology offers a faster, more effective, and environmentally conscious approach to decontamination. Its ability to rapidly remove radioactive materials while facilitating waste management marks a significant advancement in nuclear safety.” This development addresses critical needs in nuclear facility decontamination, emergency response, and waste reduction. By combining speed, efficiency, and eco-friendliness, the coating holds promise for broad application in nuclear safety and environmental management, contributing to safer decommissioning and accident mitigation in the future. The findings of this research have been published online in the March 2026 issue of Materials Horizons. The study has been supported by the Institute of Civil Military Technology cooperation, funded by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE). Journal Reference Jae Seung Lee, Ye-won Jeong, Donghyun Kim, et al., "A strippable catechol-terminated polyurethane coating for large-area radioactive cesium decontamination," Mater. Horiz., (2026).

Research 2026년 03월 27일 금요일

Advanced Interface Engineering for High-Performance Solar Cells and Green Hydrogen

Abstract Self-assembled monolayer (SAM)-based hole-selective layers (HSLs) offer a promising route to defect-passivated and energy-aligned interfaces in perovskite organic tandem solar cells (POTSCs). However, their practical implementation remains hindered by weak anchoring to transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), leading to desorption during perovskite deposition and poor interfacial durability under polar solvent exposure. Here, we present a chemical interfacial stabilization strategy in which potassium carbonate (K2CO3) mediates the controlled deprotonation of [2-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid (2PACz), forming mixed mono- and di-deprotonated species (2PACz-K) that bind strongly to indium tin oxide (ITO). The resulting SAM exhibits superior solvent resistance, improved energy-level alignment, and enhanced buried interface quality. POTSCs incorporating 2PACz-K achieve 25.10% power conversion efficiency (PCE) with a high open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 2.230 V, while retaining 80% of their initial PCE after 220 h of maximum power point (MPP) tracking under simulated 1-sun illumination. Beyond photovoltaics, the robust 2PACz-K interface is further integrated into a perovskite/organic tandem photocathode (POT-PEC), representing the first transparent, metal-free tandem PEC architecture capable of stable operation in aqueous electrolyte, delivering a photovoltage (Vph) of 2.16 V and achieving a solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of 7.7%. This work establishes a versatile interfacial design paradigm that bridges photovoltaic and photoelectrochemical energy conversion. Researchers at UNIST have unveiled a novel interface engineering technique that significantly improves both the performance and durability of perovskite/organic tandem solar cells (POTSCs). Published in the February 2026 issue of Energy & Environmental Science, their study demonstrates how precise control of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) at the molecular level can lead to more stable, high-efficiency solar devices and open new pathways for solar-driven hydrogen production. POTSCs are among the most promising photovoltaic technologies, combining different light-absorbing materials to maximize energy conversion. However, instability at the interface between the transparent electrode and the perovskite layer has long hampered their long-term reliability, especially under operational conditions. Led by Professors Jin-Young Kim and Dong-Seok Kim from the Graduate School of Carbon Neutrality, along with Professor Seung-Jae Shin from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, the team developed a method to chemically stabilize this critical interface. They focused on a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) known as 2PACz, which facilitates hole extraction in solar cells. Figure 1. Schematic illustration of the device structure of POTSCs with 2PACz-K and their performance. By introducing potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃), the team induced a controlled deprotonation of 2PACz molecules—partially removing hydrogen ions from their phosphonic acid groups. This process creates a mixture of mono- and di-deprotonated species (referred to as 2PACz-K), which acquire a negative charge and form stronger, more stable bonds with indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes. This enhanced bonding results in an interface that is more resistant to solvents used during device fabrication, maintaining uniformity and stability. Devices fabricated with this chemically tailored interface demonstrated remarkable performance: perovskite solar cells achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.1% and an open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 2.23 V. Moreover, these cells retained over 80% of their initial efficiency after 220 hours of continuous operation under simulated sunlight, indicating substantial improvements in operational stability. The team also applied this interface engineering approach to photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells designed for water splitting. The resulting tandem PEC device exhibited a high photovoltage of 2.16 V and achieved a solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of 7.7% without the need for external bias—marking a significant step toward practical, solar-driven hydrogen generation. Professor Jin-Young Kim stated, "Controlling the chemical state of interfaces at the molecular level allows us to dramatically improve both the efficiency and long-term stability of solar energy devices. This strategy offers a promising avenue for developing integrated systems that convert sunlight directly into electricity and hydrogen, supporting a sustainable energy future." The study has been supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). Journal Reference Jung Geon Son, Ha-eun Koo, Woojin Lee, et al., "Deprotonated self-assembled molecules as robust hole-selective layers for perovskite/organic tandem solar cells and photocathodes," Energy Environ. Sci., (2026).

Community 2026년 03월 25일 수요일

UNIST Strengthens Laboratory Safety Through Practice-Based Training, Sustaining Zero-Accident Record

On March 24, UNIST School of Energy and Chemical Engineering conducted a joint safety training exercise in collaboration with the Ulsan Fire Headquarters, reinforcing its sustained commitment to a safety-centered research environment. Held at the central plaza between the Main Administration Building and engineering buildings, the program focused on strengthening students’ ability to respond effectively to fire and other emergency situations. The training emphasized repeated, scenario-based exercises designed to build practical skills and reinforce safety awareness. Since 2021, the school has implemented a structured safety improvement plan, placing safety at the forefront of its academic and research activities. As of the training date, it has maintained a continuous zero-accident record for 1,374 days, reflecting the impact of consistent, hands-on training and proactive risk management. The exercise was designed to mirror potential risks encountered in laboratory and everyday settings. Participants rotated through four sessions: evacuation using emergency descent devices and earthquake simulation; fire response using outdoor hydrants and extinguishers; first aid procedures, including the Heimlich maneuver and CPR, and response protocols for fires involving water-reactive substances. New elements were introduced this year to enhance the program’s realism and relevance, including a mobile earthquake simulation unit and specialized training tailored to the handling of water-reactive materials. These additions provided participants with more comprehensive exposure to emergency scenarios aligned with the School’s research environment. Students highlighted the practical value of the training. “Practicing emergency response procedures and learning to use safety equipment directly was highly instructive,” one participant noted. “It reinforced the importance of safety both in the laboratory and in daily life.” In addition to annual training exercises, the School conducts monthly safety inspections and ongoing internal safety education to maintain a comprehensive safety framework. It plans to further expand and refine these programs to support a research environment in which students and faculty can work with confidence. Hyunhyub Ko, Head of the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, emphasized the importance of continued investment in safety education. “We will continue to provide practice-based, tailored training alongside theoretical instruction so that members of our community are prepared to respond effectively in emergency situations.”

Research 2026년 03월 23일 월요일

New Study Unveils Atomic Disorder Strategy to Enhance Stability and Efficiency of High-Capacity Batteries

Abstract Anionic redox in lithium-rich layered oxides (LRLOs) offers a breakthrough to higher energy density but is limited by voltage hysteresis arising from irreversible structural disorder. While enhancing transition metal–oxygen (TM-O) covalency through π-type interaction improves the reversibility of anionic processes, inevitable structural disorder during the first cycle still deteriorates TM-O hybridization. Here, we propose a counterintuitive strategy that embraces pre-synthetic cation disorder to preserve TM-O π-redox. The in-plane disordered arrangement modulates the first-cycle phase evolution, suppressing O3–O1 slab gliding and relaxing localized cationic oxidation at high voltage. This structural control maintains robust TM-O coordination and stabilized oxygen states even under high-voltage operation, yielding markedly reduced voltage hysteresis (0.31 vs 0.62 V) and exceptional long-term stability with minimal voltage decay (−0.04 mV cycle–1) and 98.0% energy retention after 160 cycles. This work establishes structural-disorder-driven phase evolution control as a practical design principle for stabilizing π-redox chemistry, achieving high-energy, structurally resilient LRLOs. Researchers at UNIST, in collaboration with the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory (PAL) and KAIST, have introduced a novel approach to stabilizing high-capacity battery materials. By intentionally inducing atomic-level disorder within lithium-rich layered oxide (LRLO) cathodes, the team has effectively minimized structural degradation and energy losses, paving the way for next-generation batteries with higher energy density and longer lifespan. Lithium-rich layered oxide (LRLO) are among the most promising cathode materials for future energy storage solutions due to their exceptional capacity, which involves not only metal ions but also oxygen participating in electrochemical reactions. However, their practical application has been hindered by structural instability during repeated charge and discharge cycles, leading to capacity fade and voltage degradation. To address this challenge, Professor Hyun-Wook Lee from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at UNIST, along with Dr. Young Hwa Jung from PAL and Professor Dong-Hwa Seo from KAIST, employed an innovative strategy, deliberately designing the atomic structure to be disordered. This controlled atomic disorder prevents the initial phase transition—known as slab gliding—that typically causes irreversible structural damage. Consequently, the material preserves its integrity and electrochemical performance over extended cycling. Figure 1. (Top) Schematic illustration comparing structural evolution pathways and associated TM-O covalency in ordered and pre-disordered Li/TM arrangements. (Bottom) First-principles calculations showing relative O3–O1 stacking preference during Mn migration (left) and schematic illustration of the suppressed O3→O1 slab gliding in the pre-disordered structure (right). Using advanced computational modeling based on density functional theory (DFT) and synchrotron radiation analysis at PAL, the team confirmed that the disordered structure stabilizes the bonds between transition metals and oxygen. Experimental evaluations demonstrated that these disordered cathodes exhibit a voltage difference of only 0.31V between charge and discharge during the first cycle—less than half the 0.62V observed in conventional, ordered materials—and an initial energy loss of merely 0.6%. In comparison, traditional cathodes experienced twice the voltage gap and a 25.8% energy loss. Remarkably, the disordered cathodes maintained their energy capacity with minimal voltage decay—only 0.04 mV per cycle—and retained 98% of their initial energy after 160 cycles. This exceptional stability highlights the potential of atomic-level disorder as a universal design principle for high-performance cathode materials. "By transforming what was once considered a defect—the atomic disarray—into a strategic advantage, we have opened a new pathway for enhancing battery stability," said Myeongjun Choi from UNIST, the study's first author. "This approach is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of lithium-rich layered oxides, beyond specific compositions or structures." Professor Lee added, "While lithium-rich layered oxides possess significant energy potential, their commercialization has been limited by structural issues. Our findings offer a promising route toward more durable, lightweight batteries capable of storing more energy efficiently, which could significantly impact future energy storage technologies." The findings of this research have been published online in ACS Energy Letters on February 3, 2026. This study has been supported by funding from the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), through projects focused on nanomaterials and advanced energy materials. Journal Reference Myeongjun Choi, Jeongwoo Seo, Min-Ho Kim, et al., "Pre-Disordering for Preserving Transition Metal–Oxygen Covalency in Lithium-Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes," ACS Energy Lett., (2026).