Contact Information

Dr. Madhu Menon
Department of Physics
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40506
Phone: (859) 257-8737
E-mail: madhu@ccs.uky.edu

Theoretical Approach to the Utilization of the Solar Energy in Electrical Power Generation

Using quantum tight-binding molecular dynamics and density functional theory (DFT) methods we will investigate both electronic and optical properties as a function of wire shape, size and orientation. The goal is to find nanowires with direct band gaps in the range 1.5-3 eV.

We will also explore other avenues for obtaining direct band gap materials with gaps in the visible region. In particular, we will investigate III-V compound semiconductors as well as transition metal oxides. While possessing direct band gaps, most of them have values $>$3 eV, making them inefficient light-emitters. This can, however, be rectified by suitably alloying them with other materials. In addition to III-V compound semiconductors we will also consider doping of transition metal oxides to achieve direct band gaps in the visible region.