Research

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Current research focus of the Kortshagen group

Picture of ICP plasma glowing purple-pink with the label "Nanomaterial Synthesis"

Nanomaterial synthesis and processing

The Group specializes in nonthermal plasma synthesis to form nanomaterials with uniquely designed optical, electrical, thermal, and energetic properties. With these techniques, we are able to synthesize a wide variety of materials, from semiconductors, to ceramics, to metals. 

greenhouse

Agrivoltaics

The Group studies agrivoltaic systems that integrate plasma-synthesized nanomaterials as well as other state-of-the-art material alternatives into agricultural applications. Agrivoltaic systems promote dual land use by strategically combining photovoltaics (PV) and agriculture. We have developed models to better understand how innovative materials design can lead to more sustainable greenhouse operations.

Sustainable metallurgy

Green steel and metallurgy

The Group explores the use of atmospheric pressure plasma for green steel production. As traditional steel production is a significant part of global carbon dioxide emissions, we investigate the use of hydrogen plasma to reduce iron ore as well as other metal oxides to the respective metal in an electrified, greener process.

plasmastudies

Basic plasma studies

The Group focuses on the fundamentals of dusty plasmas, or plasmas containing nanometer-sized particles. Intriguing phenomena, such as selective nanoparticle heating and particle dynamics, are investigated to enhance the understanding of plasma environments.