Low band gap nanostructures for electrocatalysis

Chalcogenide-based materials have been recognized as promising candidates for the design of next-generation devices for energy conversion and photovoltaics, in virtue of their attractive electronic properties. In this view, this thesis is focused on the synthesis and the characterization of novel selenium-based nanomaterials, proposing suitable strategies for controlling the morphology and the efficiency in electrocatalytic applications such as water splitting and supercapacitors. Therefore, the research activity has been devoted to the synthesis, extensive characterization and testing of the nanomaterials in electrocatalytic applications. In addition, in order to increase their efficiency in water splitting and as supercapacitors, the research has focused on the optimization of the synthesis protocols for suitable structural modification.