Prof. Saad M. Alshehri

Research Interests:

Prof. Alshehri’s research is primarily focused on the development of advanced nanostructured and organic-inorganic hybrid materials for applications in energy storage, conversion, and environmental sustainability. His key research themes include:

1. Electrocatalysts for Fuel Cells:
   • Synthesis of shape-controlled noble metal nanoparticles (e.g., Pt, Pd) using electrochemical deposition techniques.
   • Investigation of dendritic and flower-like morphologies on carbon-based supports to enhance catalytic activity for methanol/formic acid oxidation and oxygen reduction reactions.
   • Development of template-free Pt and Pd catalysts with superior surface area and electrocatalytic performance.
2. Metal-Free Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR):
   • Exploration of porous carbon materials doped with heteroatoms (e.g., N, S, B) as efficient and durable alternatives to Pt-based catalysts.
   • Development of graphite carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and other non-metal materials as sustainable ORR catalysts for fuel cells and lithium-air batteries.
3. Advanced Materials for Electrochemical Supercapacitors:
   • Fabrication of high-surface-area carbon and metal oxide-based electrodes for supercapacitors.
   • Development of hybrid supercapacitor-battery devices with superior energy storage capabilities.
   • Investigation of energy storage mechanisms using advanced electrochemical testing facilities.
4. Photocatalysis for Energy and Environmental Applications:
   • Design of photocatalysts for hydrogen production, CO2 reduction, and photodegradation of organic pollutants.
   • Integration of photocatalytic oxidation and reduction processes to enhance quantum efficiency and energy utilization.
   • Development of composite catalysts for simultaneous organic pollutant degradation and CO2 reduction.

Prof. Alshehri’s contributions to inorganic chemistry and nanotechnology continue to address pressing global challenges in energy and environmental sustainability through innovative material design and interdisciplinary approaches.