Providing cost-effective and efficient sources of clean energy is becoming more critical, especially in areas of the world where conventional electricity is not available. Nanostructured materials are promising for clean energy solutions as they can be engineered to absorb light from the sun and efficiently convert it into thermal energy. CuFeS2 nanocrystals were investigated for steam generation because of their broadband light-harvesting capabilities. While water on its own will be naturally heated when exposed to sunlight, the addition of these nanomaterials enhances and localizes the steam production beyond what could naturally occur, as only the interface between the foam and the water is heated rather than the entire bulk fluid. In order to take advantage of these unique characteristics, CuFeS2 nanocrystals were incorporated into another readily available, non-toxic material: polyurethane foam. These foams allow for an easily reusable and transportable system as opposed to a one-time-use solution of nanocrystals in the liquid. The nanocrystals soaked into the foam and adhered to its surface without the need for ligand exchange, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. When exposed to a solar simulator and tested in direct natural sunlight, steam was efficiently produced. Steam production was evaluated by monitoring changes in the mass of liquid water remaining as a function of time. On a larger scale, this steam production method could be used for sterilization of medical equipment without the use of electricity.

Using CuFeS2 nanocrystals for solar-to-steam energy conversion

255th National Meeting (2018)

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