Message from Division Chair
The Applied Physics Division has long served as a premier forum for device physicists, engineers, material scientists, technologists, and surface analysts working at the forefront of renewable energy and storage technology, nano-engineered materials, quantum technologies, biomedical devices, and high-frequency communications. Research topics encompass material synthesis, device engineering, surface/interface characterization, modeling, and system-level integration. The Applied Physics Division invites original research contributions spanning advanced materials, device physics, and emerging engineering technologies. The division’s scope includes the following topics:
– Solar Cells, Batteries, Thermoelectric Devices, and Supercapacitors
– Catalysis, Fuel Cells, and Water Splitting
– Bio-batteries, Bio-solar Cells, and Microbial Fuel Cells
– Nanomaterial Synthesis, 2D Materials, and Related Devices
– Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Transistors
– Materials for Quantum Information Science
– Biomedical Devices and Wearables
– Antenna, Amplifiers, and Passive Devices for High-Speed Communication
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Conference Timeline
Invited Speaker
Development of Perovskite Solar Cells
Lead-halide compounds of perovskite structure have emerged as a new class of photovoltaic materials, achieving high power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of over 26% in an unprecedented short period. Despite the startling device efficiency, an unavoidable PCE down over time is a major hurdle for real-world operation. Many studies have shown that the degradation of the device is triggered by many external and internal factors. Especially, the accelerated PCE loss caused by simultaneous thermal and light stress is critical. Developing effective countermeasures based on the analysis of this loss mechanism is essential.
We addressed these challenges through chemical and electronic investigations. The buried interface analysis between the perovskite layer and interfacing materials using Hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the chemical decomposition of the MAPbI3 perovskite is interface dependent. In fact, the development of new interface materials conducted in parallel to the mechanism investigations, we realized that sputter-deposited NiOx (sp-NiOx) layers were effective to slow down the device degradation. Being robust inorganic interface material and processible at room temperatures, the sp-NiOx could be an ideal material for the practical applications. Another issue is the mobile ions in lead-halide perovskites, which are mixed conductors. The ionic charge accumulates at the perovskite near the interfacing materials, affecting the change injection/extraction efficiencies, and thus short-term as well as long-term device performances. Analysis on the dynamic ion species through an operand HAXPES study and interface material design highlight an intrinsic factor essential for enhancing the long-term stability of perovskite solar cells. Similarly, we will discuss that further investigations on the interface materials and the treatments of the perovskite surfaces resulted in the improvement of the device performance.
Invited Speaker
Scalable 2D Materials for Ultrafast and Energy-Efficient Optoelectronic Devices
2D materials have emerged as a powerful platform for next-generation optoelectronic technologies due to their unique electronic structure, strong light matter interaction, and ultrafast carrier dynamics. Their atomic thickness, mechanical flexibility, and compatibility with diverse substrates make them particularly attractive for scalable and energy efficient device integration
This talk will present recent advances in the synthesis and engineering of 2D materials, with emphasis on phase, defect, and nanoscale structural control for optoelectronic applications. The impact of geometry and interfaces on charge transport and photoresponse will be discussed using insights from optical spectroscopy, scanning probe measurements, and device characterization. Finally, key challenges and prospects for integrating 2D materials into scalable ultrafast optoelectronic platforms will be outlined.
Division Schedule
Please look below for detailed schedule.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0001 Presenting Author: Yasuhiro Shirai (Invited) Co-Authors: nan Presenter's Affiliation: Photovoltaic Materials Group, Research Center for Energy and Environmental Materials (GREEN), National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) Title: Development Of Perovskite Solar Cells Location: In-Person Presentation, CDP Show/Hide Abstract Lead-halide compounds of perovskite structure have emerged as a new class of photovoltaic materials, achieving high power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of over 26% in an unprecedented short period. Despite the startling device efficiency, an unavoidable PCE down over time is a major hurdle for real-world operation. Many studies have shown that the degradation of the device is triggered by many external and internal factors. Especially, the accelerated PCE loss caused by simultaneous thermal and light stress is critical. Developing effective countermeasures based on the analysis of this loss mechanism is essential.
We addressed these challenges through chemical and electronic investigations. The buried interface analysis between the perovskite layer and interfacing materials using Hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the chemical decomposition of the MAPbI3 perovskite is interface dependent.1 In fact, the development of new interface materials conducted in parallel to the mechanism investigations, we realized that sputter-deposited NiOx (sp-NiOx) layers were effective to slow down the device degradation.2 Being robust inorganic interface material and processible at room temperatures, the sp-NiOx could be an ideal material for the practical applications. Another issue is the mobile ions in lead-halide perovskites, which are mixed conductors. The ionic charge accumulates at the perovskite near the interfacing materials, affecting the change injection/extraction efficiencies, and thus short-term as well as long-term device performances. Analysis on the dynamic ion species through an operand HAXPES study and interface material design highlight an intrinsic factor essential for enhancing the long-term stability of perovskite solar cells.3 Similarly, we will discuss that further investigations on the interface materials and the treatments of the perovskite surfaces resulted in the improvement of the device performance.4
References:
1. Gueye, I. et.al. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces 2021, 13 (42), 50481-50490.
2. Islam, M.B. et.al. ACS Omega 2017, 2, 2291; Sol. Energy Mater. Sol. Cells 2019, 195, 323.
3. Gueye, I. et.al. Chemistry of Materials 2023, 35 (5), 1948.
4. Khadka, D.B. et.al. Nat. Commun. 2024, 15 (1), 882.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0005 Presenting Author: Sandesh Rai Co-Authors: 1Sandesh Rai; 1Surendra Hangsarumba; 1,2Santosh Kumar Das, 1Kishori Yadav, 1Suresh Prasad Gupta, 3Bishnu Neupane, 3Deepak Deuja, 1,2*Saddam Husain Dhobi Presenter's Affiliation: Department of Physics, Patan Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Patandhoka, Nepal Title: Trapa Natans: A Natural Antioxidant And Adsorbent For Health And Water Treatment Applications Location: In-Person Presentation, CDP Show/Hide Abstract Trapa natans (water chestnut) is a seasonal aquatic plant commonly found in ponds and lakes, including polluted water bodies, and widely used by local communities for food and traditional medicinal purposes. This study investigates the effects of the edible part of Trapa natans on salt and sugar solutions along with its health-related properties. The edible portion (156 g) was separated, ground, and mixed with 250 mL deionized water at 40 °C for 2 hours using a magnetic stirrer. The mixture was filtered to obtain liquid and solid fractions. The dried solid was characterized using XRD and FTIR, while UV–visible spectroscopy was used to analyze salt, sugar, antioxidant (DPPH), and heavy metal absorption properties. Results indicate the presence of multiple crystalline and functional groups, confirming complex chemical composition. The study reveals that Trapa natans exhibits significant heavy metal adsorption, increasing absorption with higher concentrations in salt and sugar solutions, along with notable antioxidant activity. Further research is recommended to identify active compounds, assess safety, and explore applications in water purification and nutraceutical development.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0004 Presenting Author: Susmita Kafle Co-Authors: Susmita Kafle1, Surendra Hangsarumba1, Saddam Husain Dhobi1,2*, Santosh Kumar Das1,2 Presenter's Affiliation: Department of Physics, Patan Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Patandhoka, Nepal Title: Exploring Light-Assisted Hydrogen Production with Novel Photoelectrodes Location: In-Person Presentation, CDP Show/Hide Abstract Hydrogen has recently emerged as alternative energy resources due to its suitability for next-generation energy systems, sustainability, economic feasibility, and high energy efficiency. The global commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by the 2045–2050 timeframe, hydrogen is widely recognized as a climate-neutral energy carrier. Among the various production pathways, photoelectrochemical water splitting is considered one of the most environmentally friendly methods. This research aim is to prepared a photoelectrode for green hydrogen production. The electrode was prepared by depositing a different mixture ratio of CuSO?·5H?O, FeCl?, and CoCl?·2H?O onto a copper substrate using a dip-coating technique with a 5-minute immersion time. Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the successful deposition of Cu, Fe, and Co crystalline phases on the copper surface. The prepared electrode (2×1cm) was tested for hydrogen production under different conditions: dark, room light, sunlight, and filament bulb illumination at applied voltage 2 V, 2.5 V and 5 V. Electrolysis was employed for hydrogen generation, and the evolved hydrogen was measured using the downward displacement of water method. The results showed that hydrogen production was significantly higher under sunlight and filament light compared to dark and normal room conditions. These findings indicate that light intensity plays a crucial role in enhancing hydrogen generation, demonstrating the potential for cost-effective and efficient green hydrogen production.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0002 Presenting Author: Ganesh Ghimire (Invited) Co-Authors: nan Presenter's Affiliation: Technical University of Denmark Title: Scalable 2D Materials for Ultrafast and Energy-Efficient Optoelectronic Devices Location: Virtual Presentation Show/Hide Abstract 2D materials have emerged as a powerful platform for next-generation optoelectronic technologies due to their unique electronic structure, strong light matter interaction, and ultrafast carrier dynamics. Their atomic thickness, mechanical flexibility, and compatibility with diverse substrates make them particularly attractive for scalable and energy efficient device integrationThis talk will present recent advances in the synthesis and engineering of 2D materials, with emphasis on phase, defect, and nanoscale structural control for optoelectronic applications. The impact of geometry and interfaces on charge transport and photoresponse will be discussed using insights from optical spectroscopy, scanning probe measurements, and device characterization. Finally, key challenges and prospects for integrating 2D materials into scalable ultrafast optoelectronic platforms will be outlined.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0003 Presenting Author: Ishwor Bahadur Khadka Co-Authors: Sheik Adur Rahman; jeong-Sik Jo; Madhav Prasad Ghimire; Bakhtiar Ul Haq; Woo Young Kim; Se-Hun Kim; Jae-Won Jang Presenter's Affiliation: Dongguk Univeristy, South Korea Title: Highly Sensitive Non-contact Humidity Sensing Using Gold Nano-urchin Decorated Quasi-freestanding Graphene Location: Virtual Presentation Show/Hide Abstract Two-dimensional materials such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides have attracted considerable attention for sensing applications because of their high electrical conductivity and strong surface sensitivity. In particular, the incorporation of plasmonic nanoparticles can modify the local electronic environment, induce strain, break hexagonal symmetry, and enhance surface reactivity, thereby improving sensing performance. In this study, we developed a highly sensitive humidity sensor based on quasi-freestanding graphene (QFSG) epitaxially grown on vicinal silicon carbide by thermal annealing and subsequently decorated with hydrophilic gold nano-urchins (AuNUs). The AuNUs/QFSG hybrid device exhibited excellent non-contact humidity sensing performance suitable for real-time monitoring of breathing and skin moisture. At 1 kHz, the sensor showed a non-linear impedance response of approximately 119.98% over a wide relative humidity range of 4–96%, significantly outperforming the QFSG-only device, which showed a response of approximately 11.92% over 22–84% relative humidity. This nearly tenfold enhancement in humidity response, together with the broader detection range, is attributed to the combined hydrophilicity and plasmonic effects of the AuNUs. In addition, the sensor demonstrated fast transient behavior, with response and recovery times of 4.5 s and 3.0 s, respectively, low hysteresis of 3.6%, and stable operation over 25 days. These results highlight the strong potential of the AuNUs/QFSG platform for high-performance humidity sensing and practical wearable or non-contact healthcare monitoring applications.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0006 Presenting Author: Umesh Lawaju Co-Authors: Mim Lal Nakarmi Presenter's Affiliation: Department of Physics, Brooklyn College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York Title: Carrier dynamics during bandgap renormalization in mesoscopic zinc oxide particles probed by time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy Location: Virtual Presentation Show/Hide Abstract Deep UV photoluminescence (PL) measurement on mesoscopic zinc oxide (ZnO) particles at 10 K showed excitonic emission peaks at 3.375 eV and 3.363 eV due to free exciton (FX) and donor bound exciton (DoX), respectively. The dominant emission peak associated to the recombination of free electrons and holes bound to neutral acceptors (FA) was observed at 3.308 eV. As the excitation laser power was increased, bandgap renormalization was observed with a significant redshift of the FX and DoX emission peaks, while FA remained stable. To study the underlying recombination dynamics, time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) measurements were performed using a Hamamatsu streak camera to capture temporal response of the emissions from the sample. The transient decay profiles fit a biexponential decay function yielding fast (?f) and a slow (?s) time constant indicating two recombination pathways with different decay time. At the excitation power of 5 mW, ?f and ?s were found to be about 60 and 250 ps for FX, 90 and 290 ps for DoX, and 150 and 600 ps for FA, respectively. With the Increasing excitation laser power from 5 to 80 mW, both time constants for the FA transition were decreased, whereas there was no significant change in the lifetimes for FX and DoX transition. The reduced lifetime of FA indicates an increased concentration of holes bound to neutral acceptors during bandgap renormalization thereby increasing the probability of FA transitions which is consistent with the enhanced intensity of FA compared to excitonic emissions in the PL spectra. In this talk, we will discuss the effect of high carrier concentrations on optical properties along with carrier dynamics.
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Abstract Number: ANPA2026N0007 Presenting Author: Jittin Varghese Thomas Co-Authors: Mackenzie Songsart-Power; Tej Bahadur Limbu Presenter's Affiliation: Department of Mathematical, Applied, and Physical Sciences, University of Houston-clear Lake, Houston, TX, 77058, USA Title: Ti3C2Tx Mxene/polyimide Nanocomposites with Enhanced Performance for Aerospace Shielding Technologies Location: Virtual Presentation Show/Hide Abstract Polyimide (PI)–MXene nanocomposites offer a lightweight strategy for integrating structural durability with electromagnetic shielding for aerospace applications. In this work, PI–Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposites were fabricated with varying filler loadings and subsequently annealed in an argon atmosphere to improve MXene stability and interfacial bonding. The resulting hybrid material combines the thermal stability and mechanical strength of PI with the high electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties of Ti3C2Tx MXene. Four-probe measurements show a significantly reduced resistivity of 9.7 × 10?7 ?·m for the composite. Ongoing studies will further evaluate its tensile strength, as well as electrostatic and EMI shielding performance. The fabricated PI–Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposite is expected to deliver the robustness and multifunctionality required for next-generation aerospace structural materials.
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