Special Seminar: Dr Alex Ganin (University of Glasgow) Application of metallic 2D chalcogenides in energy conversion and storage applications

Application of metallic 2D chalcogenides in energy conversion and storage applications

Abstract: What if we could catalyse game-changing advances in renewable energy with just single layers of atoms? Metallic two-dimensional (2D) chalcogenides offer thrilling potential to make this vision a reality. Some of them have burst onto the scene as promising hydrogen evolution catalysts for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers when tested in idealised conditions. But how will they perform in real-world conditions? Exemplified by full-scale electrolyser tests in archetypal MoTe2 I will reveal that passivating tellurium layers could limit their performance below expectations. What does this teach us about the need to evaluate emerging catalysts beyond the lab? And can we overcome this challenge to enable robust, scalable hydrogen production?

Beyond electrolysers, metallic dichalcogenides also showcase untapped opportunities for rapid energy storage. Taking CrSe2 as an example, I will demonstrate how 2D materials could deliver remarkably high capacitance exceeding carbon materials. Its innate metallic conductivity confers clear advantages – but how far can we optimise these atomically thin structures to maximise power density? With electronic, optical and electrochemical properties, metallic CrSe2 inspires tantalising possibilities across renewable energy technologies. How can we harness its potential for batteries, and beyond?

I will be charting the path forward by critically assessing 2D materials in energy applications. As we stand at a crossroads with these promising 2D chalcogenides — will their limitations outweigh their possibilities, or can we capture their full disruptive potential?

This event is open to staff, PhD students, MSc students and final year undergraduate project students in the School of Chemistry. Please note that this seminar will not count for PG seminar credits.