Environment and Energy Research Theme Seminar
Speaker: Prof. Magdalena Titirici, Imperial College London
Title: Towards a more sustainable energy materials future
Abstract: Materials sustainability is particularly important when building future energy storage and conversion technologies. Such energy technologies are crucial to ensure the transition towards a zero emissions society but are relying heavily on materials. We must address the fine balance between the development of emerging energy technologies and the materials we use to build them. Today, scarce metals are the most important components of energy storage and conversion systems. Cobalt and graphite are in the cathodes and anodes of Li-ion batteries. With the accelerated development of Li-ion battery technologies, there is a huge demand not only for Cobalt and graphite but also for Li itself, which is geographically confined to Bolivia Chile and Argentina. Hence, we need innovative energy storage technologies beyond Li. Iridium and Platinum are the catalysts of choice for H2 production from water and its utilization in fuel cells to generate clean electricity. The current available supply for these metals cannot sustain the expansion of such technologies at a global scale. We need alternative electrocatalysts and sources for H2 production and H2 use in fuel cells. Gallium, Tellurium, Indium are used in solar cells and photocatalytic systems for solar fuel production. These materials are scarce, and alternatives must be sought for the next generation of solar panels and photocatalytic systems.
In this talk I will present some of our innovations in the design of sustainable materials alternatives to be efficiently utilized in energy storage and conversion technologies. Examples will range from efficient and sustainable batteries beyond Li to alternative catalysts to Pt for fuel cell’s cathodes as well as alternative biowaste sources to water for the production of affordable and clean H2. A new family of photoactive nanomaterials made from biomass, i.e carbon dots, will also be discussed for potential use in solar H2 production.
Academic Host: Prof. Matthew Rigby