Gas Sensors
NASICON-type Na3Fe2(PO4)3 material for an excellent room temperature CO sensor
Welcome to our research hub, where innovation meets excellence. Gas sensing technology plays a critical role in various industries by providing the ability to detect and monitor the presence of gases in the environment. These sensors are vital for ensuring safety, improving air quality, and optimizing industrial processes. The rapid advancement in material science, particularly nanomaterials, has significantly enhanced the performance and capabilities of gas sensors.
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Gas sensors operate by detecting changes in electrical properties, such as resistance, when exposed to specific gases. These changes are translated into measurable signals, which indicate the concentration of the target gas. The sensitivity and selectivity of gas sensors are largely determined by the materials used in their construction.
Our pioneering research focuses on advanced nanomaterials for superior gas detection. We have published impactful articles in reputed journals, showcasing our innovations in this field. The gas sensing performance analysis of Zn1−xMnxSnO3 chemi-resistive sensors with different Mn concentrations towards CO gas displayed enhanced sensing characteristics with respect to pure ZnSnO3 sensors. We reported an ultra-sensitive room temperature carbon monoxide (CO) gas sensor based on Na3Fe2(PO4)3 (NFP, NASICON-type monoclinic structure material) for the first time. Zn1-xNixO nanostructures, ZnSnO3 nanoparticles were revealed as an excellent humidity sensor.
By exploring the unique properties of advanced functional materials, we aim to develop next-generation gas sensors that are more efficient, accurate, and versatile.
W18O49 Nanofibers Functionalized with Graphene as a SelectiveSensing of NO2 Gas at Room Temperature
Enhancement of CO gas sensing performance by Mn-doped porous ZnSnO3 microspheres
Advancing Solar Cell Efficiency and Stability
At AFMRG, IIT Indore, our research enhances the stability and efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs). We employ advanced synthesis approaches, bifacial and interfacial engineering, bandgap tuning, and in-situ monitoring techniques to overcome challenges and ensure long-term, high-performance applications.
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Key Research Areas
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In-Situ Monitoring: Developing techniques to observe real-time degradation mechanisms, informing robust material and device design.
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Material Innovation: Exploring new materials for high efficiency, stability, and environmental safety.
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Interface Engineering: Optimizing interfaces to minimize energy losses and enhance charge transfer.
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Scalability: Maintaining cost-effectiveness and performance in large-scale production.
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Goals
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Reduce production costs with inexpensive materials and simpler fabrication processes.
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Achieve superior performance under low-light conditions for diverse applications.
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Enhance stability under moisture, heat, and UV exposure.
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Improve efficiency while scaling up production.
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Ensure high material quality for lead-free perovskites like Cs₂AgBiBr₆.
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Evaluate and reduce the environmental impact of solar cells over their lifecycle.
Development of Cathode Materials for Sodium-ion Batteries
The Advanced Functional Materials Research Group (AFMRG) at IIT Indore is dedicated to the development of advanced cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Among the promising candidates, sodiated layered metal oxides and NASICON-type polyanionic compounds stand out due to their exceptional electrochemical properties. Sodiated layered metal oxides (SLMOs) are gaining attention because of their structural similarities to lithium-ion battery cathodes. These materials typically consist of transition metals like nickel, cobalt, manganese, or iron combined with sodium and oxygen. The layered structure of SLMOs allows for the reversible intercalation and deintercalation of sodium ions, which results in high energy density and good electrochemical performance. However, challenges such as structural instability during cycling can lead to capacity fading.
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To address these issues, our research at AFMRG focuses on innovative doping strategies, surface modifications, and advanced synthesis techniques to enhance the performance and stability of SLMOs. On the other hand, NASICON-type polyanionic compounds represent another class of promising cathode materials for SIBs. These materials are characterized by a robust 3D framework structure that provides excellent structural stability and ionic conductivity. The strong covalent bonds within the polyanionic framework contribute to high thermal and chemical stability, making these materials suitable for high-power applications. Despite their advantages, optimizing the electronic conductivity and addressing voltage hysteresis remain key challenges. Our team is actively exploring approaches such as carbon coating, nano-structuring, and ion substitution to improve the electrochemical performance of NASICON-type cathodes.
At AFMRG, IIT Indore, our research is committed to overcoming the current limitations of these cathode materials through innovative material synthesis, thorough characterization, and comprehensive performance evaluation. By leveraging advanced techniques and collaborative efforts, we aim to develop high-performance, cost-effective, and sustainable cathode materials for next-generation sodium-ion batteries. For more details on our research projects and publications, please explore through our AFMRG Research Group webpage.