CX-100939 Platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) integrated tandem junction photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting devices

Platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) integrated tandem junction photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting devices
Award Number: DE-EE0008083
CX(s) Applied: A9, B3.6, B3.15
Fuel Cells Technologies Office
Location(s):  NJ
Office(s): Golden Field Office

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is proposing to provide federal funding to Rutgers University to work towards the development of platinum group metal-free devices for the splitting of water into its elements. Rutgers University would examine the optimal pairing of previously developed low cost catalyst materials with established (high performance) and emerging (low cost) photoabsorbers. Project work would occur within existing laboratory facilities at Rutgers University in Piscataway, NJ and collaboration is expected to occur with the HydroGEN Energy Materials Network National Laboratory consortium. This is a three-year research project that includes three budget periods. Only Budget Period 1 (BP1) is being negotiated at this time so this NEPA review is for BP1 activities only. Additional NEPA review will be required if DOE proposes to continue funding the project into subsequent budget periods.

Project work would occur in existing laboratories designed for this type of work that would utilize standard laboratory equipment; therefore no modifications, new permits, additional licenses and/or authorizations would be necessary. No ground disturbing activities, no changes in operation of existing facilities, and no installation of equipment outdoors would occur for project activities. The project would involve the use and handling of various hazardous materials, including inorganic solids and industrial solvents. All such handling would occur in-lab, using safety protocols established by and overseen by the Rutgers Environmental, Health & Safety Office to ensure project activities that involve these materials would pose no risk to the public. All hazardous materials would be managed in accordance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. Catalysts to be synthesized during the project may be prepared in a range of particle sizes from nanometer to micrometer sized. These solid materials would be prepared in sub-gram quantities, contained in sealed vessels, and transferred in secure environments such as a fume hood or glove box. DOE does not anticipate any impacts to resources of concern due to the proposed activities of the project.