Hierarchical DSSC structures based on single walled TiO2 nanotube arrays reach back-side illumination solar light conversion efficiency of 8%

In the present work we introduce a path to the controlled construction of DSSCs based on hierarchically structured single walled, self-organized TiO2 layers. In a first step we describe a simple approach to selectively remove the inner detrimental shell of anodic TiO2 nanotubes (NTs). This then allows controlled well-defined layer-by-layer decoration of these TiO2-NT walls with TiO2 nanoparticles (this in contrast to conventional TiO2 nanotubes). We show that such defined multiple layered decoration can be optimized to build dye sensitized solar cells that (under back-side illumination conditions) can yield solar light conversion efficiencies in the range of 8 %. The beneficial effects observed can be ascribed to a combination of three factors : 1) improved electronic properties of the single walled tubes themselves, 2) a further improvement of the electronic properties by the defined TiCl4 treatment, and 3) a higher specific dye loading that becomes possible for the layer-by-layer decorated single walled tubes.Comment: arXiv admin note: text overlap with arXiv:1610.0643

Shedding Their Refugee Skin: Construqtions ofWomen Refugees and International Aid Regimes

This paper explores the development establishment as an instutional network, a main actor in producing social constructions of women refugees. These knowledge products are particularly rooted in Western culture. The central questions asked here first, how does knowledge produced within the development establishment affect women refugees and second, are the voices of women refugees incorporated into the knowledge production process?Cet article examine l'élite du développement en tant que réseau institutionnel, et en tant qu'acteur majeur dans la production de la construction sociale des femmes réfugiées. Les questions centrales posées ici sont: d'abord, comment la connaissance produite au sein de l'élite du développement affecte-t-elle les femmes réfugiées, et ensuite, la voix des femmes réfugiées est elle entendue et intégrée dans ce processus de production de la connaissance

Aligned metal oxide nanotube arrays: key-aspects of anodic TiO2 nanotube formation and properties

Over the past ten years, self-aligned TiO2 nanotubes have attracted tremendous scientific and technological interest due to their anticipated impact on energy conversion, environment remediation and biocompatibility. In the present manuscript, we review fundamental principles that govern the self-organized initiation of anodic TiO2 nanotubes. We start with the fundamental question: Why is self-organization taking place? We illustrate the inherent key mechanistic aspects that lead to tube growth in various different morphologies, such as rippled-walled tubes, smooth tubes, stacks and bamboo-type tubes, and importantly the formation of double-walled TiO2 nanotubes versus single-walled tubes, and the drastic difference in their physical and chemical properties. We show how both double- and single-walled tube layers can be detached from the metallic substrate and exploited for the preparation of robust self-standing membranes. Finally, we show how by selecting the right growth approach to TiO2 nanotubes specific functional features can be significantly improved, e.g., an enhanced electron mobility, intrinsic doping, or crystallization into pure anatase at extremely high temperatures can be achieved. This in turn can be exploited in constructing high performance devices based on anodic TiO2 in a wide range of applications.Comment: from Nanoscale Horiz., 2016, Advance Articl

Aminated TiO2 nanotube as a Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting photoanode

The present work reports on the enhancement of TiO2 nanotubes photoelectrochemical water splitting rate by decorating the nanostructure with an amine layer in a hydrothermal process using diethylenetriamine (DETA). The aminate coated TiO2 tubes show a stable improvement of the photoresponse in both UV and visible light spectrum and under hydrothermal conditions, 4-fold increase of the photoelectrochemical water splitting rate is observed. From intensity modulated photocurrent spectroscopy (IMPS) measurements significantly faster electron transport times are observed indicating a surface passivating effect of the N-decoration.Comment: In Catalysis Today, Available online 21 July 201

Human Rights: Setting the Stage for Protecting Refugee Women

This paper explores the social construction of women refugees from the perspective of the human rights regime with an eye to revealing whether the voices of refugee women are reflected. To this end the paper examines the development of women refugees as a category within human rights discourse and how this category has been bolstered by the concept of women's human rights within the last decade.Cet article explore la construction sociale des femmes réfugiées dans la perspective du régime des droits humains avec une attention particulière portée sur la question de savoir si la voix des femmes réfugiées y est entendue. A cette fin l'article examine l'évolution de la notion de femme réfugiée comme catégorie au sein du discours sur les droits humains, et comment cette catégorie a été supportée par Ie concept de droits humains féminins dans la dernière décennie

The Moth Project

The Moth Project Assistant Prof. Jeff Schmuki (Georgia Southern) and Associate Professor Wendy DesChene (Auburn University) The ArtLab is an off-grid, solar powered 10-foot trailer that houses a mobile art space/laboratory or ArtLab. The ArtLab provides the stage for native plant gardens and solar powered light tents that attract moths and other insects for a non-destructive survey. The Moth Project shares the importance of pollinators in the environment through a hands-on community/citizen science and art experience. Research was compiled into a free downloadable field guide of the local moths found on the Georgia Southern campus that will interest in sustainability while promote simple actions that assist our declining pollinators and encourage backyard naturalism