Author
Lucking, Michael C.
Other Contributors
Zhang, Shengbai; Terrones, H. (Humberto); Meunier, Vincent; Koratkar, Nikhil A. A.;
Date Issued
2015-12
Subject
Physics
Degree
PhD;
Terms of Use
This electronic version is a licensed copy owned by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY. Copyright of original work retained by author.;
Abstract
Modern technology depends on the interfaces between materials. Nanomaterials and 2D systems are also promising for future energy and electronics applications. The much larger surface to volume ration of these systems compared to their bulk counterparts makes the interface properties even more important. Understanding the properties of interfaces is vital for technological advancement. First-principles calculations utilizing Density Functional Theory (DFT) can be applied to interfaces and nanostructures to improve the understanding of these systems. I have used these methods to investigate several systems with energy and electronics applications. Several aspects of solar water splitting have been examined, leading to a method of calculating redox levels as well as alignments for amorphous materials. A derailed understanding of the hole transfer reaction on surfaces has also been developed, as well as an understanding of band edge engineering in the promising photocatalyst CoO. In the field if electronics, edge engineering possibilities have been discovered in MoS2, also leading to a general electron counting method that is widely applicable. The nature of the insulating state as well as a model for the transition to the superconducting state has been proposed in (Li,Fe)OHFeSe. The interface between STO and FeSe has also been investigated and the issues are discussed.;
Description
December 2015; School of Science
Department
Dept. of Physics, Applied Physics, and Astronomy;
Publisher
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY
Relationships
Rensselaer Theses and Dissertations Online Collection;
Access
Restricted to current Rensselaer faculty, staff and students. Access inquiries may be directed to the Rensselaer Libraries.;