Sheryl Sanchez

Thesis Topic

High-throughput Automated Exploration of Pb-free Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals as Photocatalysts for CO₂ Reduction

Thesis

Sheryl’s work focuses on advancing photocatalytic technology through the synthesis and analysis of lead-free perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs), specifically Cs₃Sb₂X₉, using a high-throughput, ligand-assisted reprecipitation (LARP) method. This approach addresses the environmental concerns and stability issues associated with lead-based PNCs by exploring bismuth and antimony-based alternatives, which have shown promising photocatalytic activity for CO₂ reduction and organic transformations. The study leverages automated high-throughput synthesis and characterization techniques to optimize the nanocrystals’ size, shape, and optoelectronic properties, aiming to improve their photocatalytic efficiency. By systematically varying ligand ratios, solvent polarities, and precursor concentrations, the research seeks to develop stable, efficient PNCs for green energy applications, highlighting the potential of Pb-free perovskites in sustainable photocatalysis. This comprehensive methodology includes the use of advanced machine learning techniques to analyze synthesis parameters and their impact on photocatalytic performance, demonstrating a modern approach to material discovery and optimization for environmental applications.

Biography

Sheryl Sanchez is currently pursuing her PhD under the guidance of Dr. Ahmadi in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, which she obtained from City College of New York in 2021. Her current research is focused on the high-throughput synthesis of inorganic perovskite nanomaterials, with a special emphasis on their applications in optoelectronics and photocatalysis. Additionally, she is exploring the integration of various machine learning techniques to enhance the understanding and design of these materials.