Our group's primary research interests are in the field of synthetic nanochemistry.  Developing new synthetic approaches to novel nanostructures with tunable composition, morphology, architecture and revealing the underlying formation mechanism is one of our ultimate goal. Also, we explore fundamental physicochemical properties of the as-prepared nanomaterials and their potential applications in optoelectronics, catalyst, and solar energy conversion.

1. Synthetic chemistry of colloidal nanostructures

Colloidal nanostructures of semiconductors, including the metal chalcogenides, ternary sulfide, are quite important and useful materials for diverse applications. We focus on the developing novel synthetic strategies to these colloidal nanostructures, with an emphasis on targeting desired morphologies and (metastable) crystal structure not typically observed in bulk systems. 

2. Rational construction of hierarchical heterostructures and their photo-induced charge transfer dynamics

Heterostructures that combine distinct components with different functionalities in one system have attracted great attention due to their fascinating properties and various potential applications. Delicate control of the composition, configuration, spatial arrangements, and interconnection of the components into heterostructures with increased degree of complexity has become the focus of intensive research. We have employed the seeded growth method to synthesize lot of hierarchical heterostructures with complex morphologies. The key to the success is seed engineering of their crystal structures and exposed surfaces, which are used as nucleation and growth sites of the other components relying on epitaxial growth. Furthermore, we have tried to unveil the photo-induced charge transfer dynamics in the heterostructures by transient absorption spectroscopy.

3. Functional nanomaterials for optoelectronics, catalyst, and solar energy conversion application

Nanomaterials possess intriguing optical, electronic, mechanical and chemical properties, which often differ greatly from their bulk counterparts. These properties make them strong candidates for various applications in optoelectronics, catalyst, and solar energy conversion. We have explored the hyperbranched nanowires/nanorods for optoelectronic device and solar energy conversion.