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B.S. & M.S. Dacca University
Ph.D., Flinders University of South Australia
Our research activities are in the field of electrochemistry with special emphasis on the fundamental solid state and photoelectrochemical aspects of electrode processes. Electrochemistry itself is an interdisciplinary field in the realm of physical chemistry and chemical physics; it deals with such technologically important subjects as catalysis, corrosion, solar energy conversion, and fuel and power generation. With increasing demand for the use of electrochemical methods, basic theoretical and experimental studies of electrode reactions with specific emphasis on electrochemical kinetics and catalysis have become more important.
Our research programs in the field of electrode kinetics involve investigations of electron transfer dynamics for redox reactions at metal and semiconductor electrode-solution interfaces from both theoretical and experimental points of view. We develop theoretical expressions of electron transfer rates (i.e. current density) where various solid state properties of electrode materials, solvents and ions in solution are incorporated. Corresponding experiments are performed in order to verify the theoretical predictions regarding kinetics and activation mechanisms of electrochemical electron transfer reactions.
In the field of photoelectrochemistry, we formulate the expressions of photocurrents for the hydrogen evolution during the splitting of water at semiconductor electrodes under solar light illumination. We also model the photocatalytic effect of small amounts of metal incorporated onto semiconducting surfaces. Experiments are carried out using combinations of semiconductor photoelectrodes theoretically chosen to have efficient conversion of solar light to hydrogen. More recently, we have begun studies on the photocatalytic detoxification of polluted water, electrocatalytic biosensors, electrochemical surface modification and the electrosynthesis of conducting polymers.
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Office Phone:(412) 396-1647
Email: khan@duq.edu |
