Dr. Maria Manuela Silva

Abstract:

Fossil fuel energy supply limitations and environmental impacts are causing critical problems to the planet. In this context, researchers have urged to develop, storage, and apply renewable energy as an alternative source to fossil fuel. The commonly used renewable energy sources are the most diverse from biomasses, solar, and wind power. However, all these alternative renewable energy sources require efficient energy storage devices and the developed electrochemical energy storage devices are supercapacitors, fuel cells, and lithium-ion battery. With the growing demand for energy solutions, researchers and companies are continuously exploring new materials and technologies to enhance devices performance, durability, and safety. Nowadays, it is the pursuit of the materials science community to implement sustainable materials in all fields of applications. It is expected that materials encompass properties like high abundance in nature; low cost; eco-friendliness; recyclability and suitable properties for the envisaged application. In this sense, we propose herein the development of novel electrolytes for electrochemical devices, based on a natural polymer [1], doped with green ionic liquids (ILs) or/and different salts. These electrolytes may assume a multifunctional role as separator, adhesive and cell sealant in electrochemical devices. The results emphasize the huge potential of the developed green electrolytes in technological applications, as diverse as batteries [2].

The UN introduced 17 Goals for 2030 that intend to be a foundation for a better and more sustainable future. Out of these, Goals 7, 11, and 13, it will hopefully help to achieve a more sustainable energy future in the cities, the storage systems, and a better lifestyle.