Optical Absorber Materials for Energy Harvesting and Thermal Sensing

The field of optical superabsorbers for energy harvesting and optical sensors has been a subject of interest for many research groups since its first conceptualization in the late 1990’s. Since then, significant progress has been made on the production of such nano-structured materials, including the emergence of some commercial products. However, the lack of ability to “tune” the optical properties of these superabsorbers has been a significant challenge, limiting their potential for widespread use in diverse applications. Recent theoretical studies have shown promising results in being able to decipher the mechanisms that lead to such high levels of optical absorption. However, despite these advancements, there is still little understanding on how to implement wavelength-selective absorptive properties. As such, there is a need for better investigation into the factors affecting the spectral properties for efficient energy harvesting capabilities of these materials before viable devices can be produced.The main aim of this Research Topic is to understand the mechanisms that lead to strong optical absorption, and this way, be able to develop new nanostructures that will be able to enhance and expand the spectral range of operation of the nanostructured absorbers. This way, research groups will be able to enhance the performance of the nanostructured optical materials in energy harvesting and thermal sensing. This involves investigating the light-matter interaction process and history in the development of strong optical absorbers, understanding the physics governing absorption, and exploring new methods that suit designs required for various applications. The goal is to bring more attention to the research and development of absorbers and to explore the potential for commercial and industrial use of these in the near future.To gather further insights into the physical processes of nanostructured optical absorbers in relation to their material properties and nanostructure, and optimize their potential for energy harvesting and sensing. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- The influence of nanostructure and material selection on the spectral absorptivity and reflectivity of nano-absorbers.- The properties and potential applications of new classes of strong and wavelength-selectable optical absorbers, such as sensing and energy harvesting.- The implementation of strong optical absorbers into specialized optical systems such as space-born telescopes.- Novel hybrid materials in response to temperature, light irradiation and electric field- The enhancement of the temperature–voltage response of pyroelectric sensors through laser processing. Topic editors: Jose Virgilio Anguita, Zongtao Zhang, Sunday EKPO Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78093/optical-absorber-materials-for-energy-harvesting-and-thermal-sensing