The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $575,000 Project Grant under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program to Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). The funding supports research by Professor Stefan Bernhard to develop data-driven, automated methodologies for understanding and controlling light-driven catalytic processes. Key goals include photogeneration of hydrogen from bio-based precursors like glycerol, sugars, and cellulose, as well as establishing a fundamental understanding of water oxidation processes for hydrogen and oxygen production. The project leverages advanced techniques like 3D printing, laser cutting, and machine learning to enable high-throughput screening and optimization of these photochemical reactions. The proposed work aims to accelerate scientific progress in transforming sunlight into storable, carbon-neutral fuels, while also training diverse teams of students in critical multidisciplinary research areas.
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