Editorial for the Special Issue: Research at the SKKU Institute of Energy Science and Technology (SIEST), Sungkyunkwan University

Abstract

We are delighted to present this special issue of Advanced Energy Materials, which brings together research and progress on future energy conversion, next-generation batteries, and advanced green energy. This issue includes studies on solar cells, lithium batteries, display technologies, microenergy harvesting, and hydrogen production, all performed at the SKKU Institute of Energy Science and Technology (SIEST), Sungkyunkwan University.

SIEST was established on March 1, 2022, to support advanced energy science and technology through collective efforts in energy conversion, storage, and harvesting. Leading-edge scientists in these fields have joined forces to enhance research collaboration and address global energy challenges. As we navigate the complex landscape of energy materials and devices, these studies and review articles offer transformative insights and solutions that push the boundaries of current technology. This issue is a testament to the innovative spirit driving the field forward, showcasing a diverse range of topics from perovskite solar cells to the development of next-generation batteries.

To improve the efficiency and stability of solar cells, particularly perovskite solar cells, optimizing interface chemistry is crucial. Three topics are presented for this purpose, dealing with the interfacial reaction in perovskite solar cells by introducing novel dopants into the hole-transporting molecular layer (article number 2402144), the cation disorder engineering in chalcogenide-based absorber for improving the deposition method (article number 2402099), and carbazole-treated waterproof perovskite films to provide a solution to the perennial problem of moisture sensitivity in perovskites for better durability (article number 2401965).

Cutting-edge lithium battery research is also discussed as part of the special issue. The article entitled “Navigating the carbon maze: A roadmap to effective carbon conductive networks for lithium-ion batteries” (article number 2400499) provides a comprehensive guide to optimizing carbon networks in lithium-ion batteries. The article on dual flame-retardant mechanism is helpful in suppression of thermal runaway in lithium metal batteries (article number 2304366), which can tackle the critical issue of safety, proposing mechanisms to prevent thermal runaway in lithium metal batteries. Strategies to enhance battery performance under constrained electrolyte conditions are discussed in the article entitled “Advancing post-secondary batteries under lean electrolyte conditions through interfacial modification strategies” (article number 2400035).

Advances in blue energy and triboelectric energy harvesting highlight exciting developments in energy harvesting technologies. The article entitled “Advances in blue energy fuels: harvesting energy from ocean for self-powered electrolysis” introduces new methods to harness energy from ocean waves, providing a sustainable approach to hydrogen production (article number 2400563). An integrated system that combines triboelectric energy harvesting with modern communication technologies is discussed to offer potential applications in low-power devices (article number 2400481).

Perovskite quantum dot technologies see rising importance in energy conversion and display-related research fields. Superfluorescence is discussed with metal halide perovskites to offer insights that could lead to highly efficient optoelectronic devices (article number 2400322). The cross-correlation between crystallinity and optoelectronic properties of perovskite thin films is discussed via multiple time-resolved spectroscopy to provide insights into optimizing device performance (article number 2400225). The question how to achieve near-perfect quantum yield in quantum dots can be answered from the article entitled “Unlocking invisible defects of ZnSe alloy shells in giant quantum dots with near unity quantum yield” (article number 2400148).

Research on hydrogen production and electrochemical cells is also prominently featured by two articles. “Interface engineering to operate reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells below 500 °C” (article number 2400124) presents strategies to improve the operation of protonic ceramic electrochemical cells at lower temperatures, and “Computational design of optimized modular photovoltaic electrochemical reactor for energy efficient CO₂-to-C_n reduction reaction with band gap tunable perovskite tandem cells” highlighting the potential of computational design in creating efficient reactors for CO₂ reduction, integrating photovoltaic and electrochemical technologies (article number 2304492).

This is but a small selection of the topics covered and the diverse array of studies in this special issue underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and technological integration in advancing energy materials and devices. From the exploration of new materials and processes to the development of innovative energy conversion systems, the contributions in this special issue pave the way for future research and applications in sustainable energy. We extend our deepest gratitude to the authors for their invaluable contributions and to the reviewers for their critical insights and rigorous evaluations. We hope this special issue inspires continued innovation and collaboration in the field of advanced energy materials.

Nam-Gyu Park and Won-Sub Yoon

Guest Editors

Advanced Energy Materials