Abstract: In this presentation, I'll first introduce our recent effort in developing multiscale methods bridging length-scales from quantum mechanics for electrons to continuum mechanics for finite elements. I will then focus on two materials problems where multiscale modeling plays a crucial role. The first problem has to do with charge carrier mobility and exciton dynamics in disordered semiconductors for organic solar cells. The second problem underlies stress-controlled catalysis of core/shell nanoparticles in fuel cells. If time allows, I'll touch upon our recent progress in modeling surface-plasmon enhanced photocatalysis (water-splitting) on oxide surfaces.

 

About the Speaker: Prof. Gang Lu received his Ph. D from Chinese Academy of Sciences although most of his Ph. D research was carried out in California State University Northridge (CSUN). Prof. Lu performed his postdoc research at Harvard University before returning to CSUN as a faculty member. Dr. Lu is a Professor of Physics and the Director of NSF-funded Center for Emergent Materials and founding Director of Institute for Materials Innovation at CSUN. Prof. Lu's group is specialized in quantum mechanics based multiscale modeling of materials and has developed several multiscale modeling packages. Currently, his group is focusing on fundamental materials problems to alleviate our dependence on fossil fuels. The research topics include organic and dye-sensitized solar cells, photocatalysis and fuel cells, mechanical properties of lightweight metallic alloys, and plasmonics.

  

Date&Time: July 2, 2013 (Tuesday), 16:00 - 17:00
Location: 606 Conference Room