Nanostructured Optoelectronic Materials (NANOPTO)

The mission of this group is to use scientific knowledge to help provide clean energy to all people. Our strategy is to develop materials beyond silicon, to obtain new functionalities, low cost and higher environmental sustainability. In particular, we develop photovoltaic (conversion of light into electricity) and thermoelectric (conversion of residual heat into electricity) technologies using nanostructured semiconductors (organic, inorganic, and hybrid). At the same time, we design and apply photonic and plasmonic architectures that help improve the performance of these devices. The two pillars that underpin the foundations of our experimental research are decades of experience in manufacturing and materials processing, as well as their characterization using advanced spectroscopic techniques, including macroscopic and local measurements of the electrical and thermal behavior. We carry out these activities engaged in national and european projects, and cooperation with companies.