Project Overview
Development of Spectroscopy and Microscopy Instrumentation for Studying Fluorescence of Solar Materials and Biological Systems
Department(s)
Chemistry
Abstract
Light-matter interactions provide insight into the properties of materials. The wavelength dependence of these interactions is the basis of spectroscopy, allowing us to probe chemical properties in a wide range of systems, such as solar cell components and proteins. However, most systems are not spatially uniform and static in time. Therefore, we aim to combine spectroscopy with microscopy using a technique called hyperspectral imaging to look at both the spatial and chemical variation of samples. Additionally, we will use transient absorption spectroscopy to look at chemical changes in samples over time. This summer, we will focus on building these instruments from individual components – such as lasers, mirrors, lenses, and cameras – providing opportunities to learn the basics of optics and gain a better understanding of commercial spectrometers. As we begin to collect data, we will also write analysis programs using Matlab, providing the opportunity to learn basic coding skills. Once the instruments are built, we will test and characterize them using dye molecules to measure absorption and fluorescence. By performing measurements on dyes with known responses, we will ensure the instruments and analysis codes work as intended. Finally, with the newly constructed instruments, we will begin to explore the chemical and physical variations in solar cell materials, such as perovskite thin films, and in protein folding using fluorescence.
Student Qualifications
Chem 101 OR Chem 111 OR Phys 131 OR Phys 232
Number of Student Researchers
2 students
Project Length
10 weeks
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