The growing concern of climate change and global warming has in turn given rise to a thriving research field dedicated to finding solutions. One particular area which has received considerable attention is the lowering of carbon dioxide emissions from large-scale sources, that is, fossil fuel power. This paper focuses on ionic liquids being used as novel media for CO2capture. In particular, solubility data and experimental techniques are used at a laboratory scale. Cited CO2absorption data for imidazolium-, pyrrolidinium-, pyridinium-, quaternary-ammonium-, and tetra-alkyl-phosphonium-based ionic liquids is reviewed, expressed as mole fractions (X) of CO2to ionic liquid. The following experimental techniques are featured: gravimetric analysis, the pressure drop method, and the view-cell method.

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In dye-sensitised solar cells developed to-date, ultraviolet blocking layers (UV-BL) is employed to avoid photocatalysis effects on the dye and consequent reduction in PV energy output over time due to UV exposure in outdoor conditions. Use of a UV-BL increases stability but, power conversion efficiency decreases as incident UV photons are not converted. The organolanthanide complex Eu(tta) 3 phen is examined for inclusion in large Stokes shift downshifting (LSS DS) layers. It is shown that such LSS DS layers can be used as a UV blocking layer in DSSCs. A ray-trace numerical model is used to optimise the thickness and concentration of the LSS DS layers for the specific N719 DSSC. EQE is significantly increased in the UV spectral region compared to DSSCs utilizing a passive, non-luminescent, UV-BL. High Eu(tta) 3 phen film transparency in the visible range minimises DSSC EQE losses at visible wavelengths. The photostability of the blended LSS DS polymer films is not sufficient to be useful for medium-long term outdoor PV applications. However, the results demonstrate that significant efficiency enhancement can be realized. Short circuit current enhancement due to downshifting is demonstrated (~1%) in small scale LSS DS polymer films prepared and attached to DSSC devices, where the specific geometry limits the photon collection efficiency and overall enhancement. Model predictions indicate that 2-3% enhancement is realizable in DSSC minimodules, compared to minimodules using passive, non-luminescent, UV-BL. Predicted enhancement in energy produced in outdoor conditions is 3-5%.

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This paper presents the results from the workshop organized by the NEXTOWER project aimed at creating a cluster and exchange forum for projects and research activities in the area of Concentrated Solar Power. Synergies and experiences were shared, common difficulties, specially when dealing with innovative materials were found and discussed and new collaboration opportunities where presented.