The Hwang Group...
The Hwang group has a well-balanced emphasis on fundamentals and applications.
Using atomic-level simulations we focus on developing a quantitative understanding of fundamental properties and processes. By incorporating the fundamental understanding and data into larger scale simulations, we also devote our effort to addressing engineering problems encountered in the fabrication of nanoscale electronic, photonic and energy devices.
Our Current Research...
Our current research concerns developing theoretical foundations for:
- Rational design and synthesis of new high performance nanocatalysts based on less expensive non-precious metals;
- Development of highly efficient supercapacitors using carbon-based electrode materials and organic/ionic liquid electrolytes;
- Identification of new high-capacity silicon-based anode materials for Li-ion batteries;
- Atomic-level control of surface chemistry, electrical, optical and thermal transport properties of semiconductor and oxide nanomaterials through impurity doping as well as strain and defect engineering with applications to future electronic, optoelectronic, chemical, and biological devices;
- Controlled synthesis and structure of oxide-embedded semiconductor and metal nanocrystals and nanowires for future electronic and optoelectronic devices; and
- Electrochemical and plasma-assisted nanopatterning of semiconductor and metal surfaces.
To this end, our effort is focused on developing: (1) strategies for predictive multiscale, multiphysics computational models by integrating various state-of-the art theoretical methods at different length and time scales and (2) a quantitative understanding of the relationship between synthesis, structure, and properties of nanostructured materials and systems.
