Modified electrodes for mixing entropy batteries

• Grant number: 14/19393-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2014
• End date: October 31, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Fritz Cavalcante Huguenin
• Grantee: Cainã de Oliveira
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto (FFCLRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This project involves studies directed to mixing entropy batteries, aiming to produce electrical work from the increased entropy produced by mixing solutions with different salt concentrations. Considering the extensive coastal region and the volume of fluvial water, Brazil has a huge energy reservoir that can be converted into chemical energy. Alkali ions host matrices can be used in the recovery of entropic energy of mixing water from the seas and rivers. The natural water transposition cycle and the low environmental impact generated in this process allow the use of these clean energy sources for sustainable growth. Moreover, this technology can be exploited in wastewater treatment in industries and sewage substations.Electrodes based on polycyanometalates with sodium ions storage properties will be synthesized and investigated for application as positive electrode in mixing entropy batteries. Structural changes in Prussian blue are necessary for enhancement of the storage capacity, insertion rate, and stability in different chemical environments. The materials will be investigated from cyclic voltammetry, chronopotentiometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electrochemical microbalance quartz crystal, and scanning electron microscopy.