【Suzhou】Functionalized Hydrogel for Efficient Energy Conversion and Environmental Treatment

Environmental pollution and energy crisis are two unavoidable problems that hinder the sustainable development of human society. Photocatalytic technology can degrade organic pollutants in water into water and carbon dioxide, etc., through redox reaction under sunlight irradiation. It is essential to develop new visible light-responsive catalysts and explore modification strategies to improve their photocatalytic activity.

Students will composite biomass hydrogel and copper nanoparticles to prepare stable and efficient composite flexible photocatalytic materials by utilizing the advantages of both.

I gained a deeper understanding of hydrogels and photocatalysis, making me more familiar with laboratory procedures. I also learned about various new experimental instruments and techniques. The experiment on hydrogel fabrication was fascinating, as it introduced me to new reagents and their functions. I have learned two hydrogel production methods and compared their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, I learned about experimental design, error reduction, and the ability to summarize experimental reports. This experience has furthered my interest in materials chemistry and enriched my knowledge in the field, which will benefit my future academic pursuits and professional applications.
—— Suzhou Foreign Language School, Student Ge
In this research activity, I learned about the principles and applications of semiconductor photocatalysts in photocatalysis and the preparation of composite products formed with gels. I further understood various reactions involved during the experimental process, such as cross-linking reactions and band theory. This more profound knowledge has provided me with a clearer understanding of materials and polymer chemistry, helping me better position myself for future academic and career pursuits in these areas.
—— High School Attached to Shandong Normal University, Student Li
This activity taught me how to collaborate effectively within a team and handle, analyze, and adequately use laboratory equipment. It allowed me to understand the content and direction of my prospective study abroad major and helped me apply to my desired university significantly. It exposed me to many things I wouldn't have had the opportunity to learn about otherwise. It allowed me to enter a completely new environment for learning and exploration. Additionally, it provided me with a new way to understand hydrogels and experience the allure of experiments.
—— Kang Chiao International School of Hefei, Student Li
The greatest takeaway from this activity is becoming familiar with using professional laboratory equipment and mastering data analysis methods. In daily life, it's rare to have access to high-precision instruments for measurement and process. This activity acquainted me with instruments like the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) reader, pipettes, and magnetic stirrers, providing the necessary professional background for future university applications and coursework prerequisites. Additionally, we learned how to use drawing tools to assist in processing data from Excel, allowing us to organize instrument-generated data into graphs for convenient presentation of results. Finally, the most significant aspect of the experience was the discussions with the teachers during the experimental process, whose rich professional knowledge enriched my understanding of the project and my ability to think rigorously.
—— Suzhou Foreign Language School, Student Li