CONGRATULATIONS: Dr. Man Minh Tan Publishes in Leading International Journal, Journal of Materials Chemistry A

TDTU, 13/05/2026

The Institute For Advanced Study in Technology (IAST), Ton Duc Thang University is proud to extend its warmest congratulations to Dr. Man Minh Tan for his recently published research in the prestigious journal, Journal of Materials Chemistry A (IF: 9.5). This is one of the top-tier journals dedicated to materials chemistry, energy materials, and functional materials.

The paper is titled: “Interfacial electronic modulation in Au–tungstic acid for enhanced PEC performance”

In this study, the research team successfully developed an Au–H₂WO₄ photoelectrochemical (PEC) system by integrating gold (Au) nanoparticles into a tungstic acid (H₂WO₄) matrix. This novel approach simultaneously exploits the plasmonic effects of Au and the characteristic proton-buffering capability of H₂WO₄. This synergy enhances light absorption, facilitates charge separation, and improves interfacial charge transfer at the metal-semiconductor interface.

The experimental results demonstrate that the Au–H₂WO₄ system significantly outperforms pristine H₂WO₄:

  • Photocurrent density increased nearly 25-fold.
  • Charge-transfer resistance was reduced by over 60%.
  • Approximately 92% of pollutants were removed within just 90 minutes, with a reaction rate nearly 6 times faster.

Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the presence of Au restructures the electronic distribution at the Au/H₂WO₄ interface, inducing a Fermi level shift and enhancing orbital coupling. These factors effectively drive electron separation and transfer while inhibiting electron-hole recombination.

Beyond performance enhancement, this work proposes a strategic material design combining proton-active lattices with plasmonic metallic nanostructures. This strategy stabilizes photogenerated hole accumulation and accelerates surface reaction kinetics, opening new possibilities for energy conversion, photoelectrochemistry, and sustainable environmental treatment.

This success significantly contributes to elevating the international research profile of IAST and Ton Duc Thang University.

Once again, we congratulate the research team and wish them continued breakthroughs and success in their scientific journey.

Created by: GPAI