Physics

Energy and Environmental Physics

NTNU Physics Energy TFY4300 Energy and Environmental Physics Autumn 7,5

The energy budget of the earth, the green house effect, radiation, atmospheric changes due to human activities. Methods and the physical basis for exploitation of conventional (fossil fuels and nuclear energy) and renewable energy sources (solar radiation, wind, bio mass, ocean waves, tidal and geothermal energy).

Energy resources

NTNU Physics Energy FY2290 Energy resources Spring 7,5

 

The course will cover energy resources and their role in modern society, with both national and global perspectives. The present and future impacts of nuclear and fossil fuels on the environment will be explored. Energy technologies and use of solar, wind, hydro and biomass energy resources will be introduced, and the relationship between public policy and resource usage will be discussed.

Ab initio modelling of solar cell materials

The course is focused on studying the properties of solar cell materials using computational methods based on density functional theory. The fundamentals of band structure methods along with the topics treated include structural phase stability, bonding, and physical properties (electrical, optical properties) of materials using state of the art ab-initio calculations. Focus is given to the relationship between multifunctional properties with electronic structure in the atomic and nanoscale.

Advanced Characterization methods

The course on advanced characterization methods will include the main techniques relevant for characterization of materials and components for solar cells. Introduction to each technique will be supervised by an expert in this technique. Time allocated for each separate technique will generally be 1 day. The day will start with an introductory lecture giving the basic understanding of the technique and the physical principles it is based on, as well as advantages and limitations.