Chemistry of Renewable Energy: Hydrogen, Solar, Biofuels

Chemistry of Renewable Energy: Hydrogen, Solar, Biofuels is a comprehensive guide to the chemical principles and applications that underpin modern renewable energy technologies. The book explores how fundamental chemistry drives innovation in hydrogen fuel, solar energy conversion, and biofuel production, emphasizing sustainable and environmentally responsible energy solutions. It bridges the gap between theoretical chemistry and practical applications, offering readers a thorough understanding of both mechanisms and emerging trends.
The first part of the book focuses on hydrogen energy, examining various production methods such as electrolysis, photochemical water splitting, and thermochemical processes. It addresses storage challenges, fuel cell technologies, and the role of catalysts, providing readers with a detailed view of hydrogen’s potential as a clean, versatile energy carrier. The second part delves into solar energy, highlighting the chemistry of semiconductors, photovoltaic materials, and light-to-energy conversion processes. The book also explores advancements in solar technologies, including thin-film and perovskite solar cells, linking chemical properties to efficiency improvements. In the final section, the book examines biofuels, detailing the chemical transformation of biomass into bioethanol, biodiesel, and next-generation fuels. It discusses catalytic and enzymatic pathways, emphasizing green chemistry approaches and sustainability considerations. Each chapter integrates current research, practical examples, and case studies to ensure that readers can connect chemical principles to real-world energy challenges.
This book is intended for students, educators, and researchers in chemistry, chemical engineering, and renewable energy disciplines, as well as professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of sustainable energy technologies. By providing a detailed and application-focused exploration of hydrogen, solar, and biofuel chemistry, the book equips readers with the knowledge necessary to contribute meaningfully to the global energy transition.