No abstract

Basic scientific interest in using a semiconducting electrode in molecule‐based electronics arises from the rich electrostatic landscape presented by semiconductor interfaces. Technological interest rests on the promise that combining existing semiconductor (primarily Si) electronics with (mostly organic) molecules will result in a whole that is larger than the sum of its parts. Such a hybrid approach appears presently particularly relevant for sensors and photovoltaics. Semiconductors, especially Si, present an important experimental test‐bed for assessing electronic transport behavior of molecules, because they allow varying the critical interface energetics without, to a first approximation, altering the interfacial chemistry. To investigate semiconductor‐molecule electronics we need reproducible, high‐yield preparations of samples that allow reliable and reproducible data collection. Only in that way can we explore how the molecule/electrode interfaces affect or even dictate charge transport, which may then provide a basis for models with predictive power. To consider these issues and questions we will, in this Progress Report, review junctions based on direct bonding of molecules to oxide‐free Si. describe the possible charge transport mechanisms across such interfaces and evaluate in how far they can be quantified. investigate to what extent imperfections in the monolayer are important for transport across the monolayer. revisit the concept of energy levels in such hybrid systems.

In The Netherlands, as well as in a large number of other countries around the world, photovoltaics is regarded as one of the most promising options for future power production, although bulk photovoltaic (PV) power now is still more than five times more expensive than grid power. The commercialization of PV will run from small ‘niche’ markets to large‐scale power plants integrated into the utility network. This does not mean, however, that PV R,D&D should concentrate on niche market applications only. Tomorrow's introduction of large‐scale PV power plants can only be achieved successfully if effort is put into the development and demonstration of large‐scale PV technology today. The Nieuw Sloten 250‐kWp project (Amsterdam) and the Nieuwland 1‐MW project (Amersfoort) in The Netherlands are examples of the commitment on the national and on the European level to take up this R,D&D effort seriously (both projects are supported by Novem and THERMIE). The Netherlands ‘learning programme’ for PV aims at the successful introduction of large‐scale, dispersed photovoltaics in the next century. The key issue of the programme, as well as of the aforementioned projects, is to establish a firm cooperation with builders, because future large‐scale photovoltaics in The Netherlands will undoubtedly be realized on the roofs of buildings. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

No abstract

Wood is an increasingly demanded renewable resource and an important raw material for construction and materials. Demands are rising, with a growing attention for re-use and upcycling. This opens opportunities for new business models, empowered by the use of digital design and technologies. A KPI-framework has thus been developed to assess the impact of waste wood upcycling, to provide new business perspectives. It is conceived as a tool to enable circular businesses to select the most appropriate circular wood applications for their portfolio. The framework currently consists of eight indicators addressing circularity, environment, society and economics. This paper presents these indicators and shares insights for further development and enhancement of the framework.