Photonics for Net Zero Enabled by Patternable Boron-Phosphide Polymers

This project will explore the synthesis and development of main-group phosphine-borane-polymers (polyphosphinoboranes) as scalable pre-ceramic precursors to c-BP or h-BP. These polymers will then be integrated with photonic devices, such as solar absorbers and silicon emitters, using thin-film methods and nanolithography techniques. The project will combine the expertise of Andrew Weller in the catalytic synthesis and exploitation of pre-cursor BP-polyphosphinoboranes with expertise in photonic devices of Christina Wang.

Key objectives Catalytic synthesis of targeted polyphopshinoboranes (PPB), with high efficiency and low residual catalyst loading Mechanistic studies into dehydropolymerisation to understand, and then optimise, catalysis Use of lithographic and thin-film techniques in device manufacture containing PPB thin-films

Optimisation of strategies for the production if ceramic PB and then incorporation in devices. Evaluation of any new devices for photocatalysis or in silicon emitters Novelty The deployment of bespoke main group PB-polymers as pre-ceramic materials for use in devices for net-zero applications. Multi-disciplinary approach using chemistry/physics/catalysis/engineering.