Search Results (545)

Pseudo-persistent organic pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products (PPCPs), and organic dyes, are a major issue in current environmental engineering. Considering the limitations of traditional wastewater treatment plant methods and degradation technologies for organic pollutants, the search for new technologies more suitable for treating these new types of pollutants has become a research hotspot in recent years. Membrane filtration, adsorption, advanced oxidation, and electrochemical advanced oxidation technologies can effectively treat new organic pollutants. The electro-advanced oxidation process based on sulfate radicals is renowned for its non-selectivity, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness, and it can improve the dewatering performance of sludge after wastewater treatment. Therefore, in this study, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC) was selected as the target pollutant. A new type of electrochemical filtration device based on the advanced oxidation process of sulfate radicals was designed, and a new type of modified carbon nanotube material electrode was synthesized to enhance its degradation effect. In a mixed system of water and acetonitrile, the efficiency of the electrochemical filtration device loaded with the modified electrode for degrading OMC is 1.54 times that at room temperature. The experimental results confirmed the superiority and application prospects of the self-designed treatment scheme for organic pollutants, providing experience and a reference for the future treatment of PPCP pollution. Full article

This study developed a two-dimensional multiphysics-coupled model for co-electrolysis of CO₂ and H₂O in solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) using COMSOL Multiphysics, systematically investigating the influence mechanisms of key operating parameters including temperature, voltage, feed ratio, and flow configuration on co-electrolysis performance. The results demonstrate that increasing temperature significantly enhances CO₂ electrolysis, with the current density increasing over 12-fold when temperature rises from 923 K to 1423 K. However, the H₂O electrolysis reaction slows beyond 1173 K due to kinetic limitations, leading to reduced H₂ selectivity. Higher voltages simultaneously accelerate all electrochemical reactions, with CO and H₂ production at 1.5 V increasing by 15-fold and 13-fold, respectively, compared to 0.8 V, while the water–gas shift reaction rate rises to 6.59 mol/m³·s. Feed ratio experiments show that increasing CO₂ concentration boosts CO yield by 5.7 times but suppresses H₂ generation. Notably, counter-current operation optimizes reactant concentration distribution, increasing H₂ and CO production by 2.49% and 2.3%, respectively, compared to co-current mode, providing critical guidance for reactor design. This multiscale simulation reveals the complex coupling mechanisms in SOEC co-electrolysis, offering theoretical foundations for developing efficient carbon-neutral technologies. Full article

Energy storage plays an essential role in stabilizing fluctuations in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, enabling surplus electricity retention, and delivering dynamic frequency regulation. However, relying solely on a single form of storage often proves insufficient due to constraints in performance, capacity, and cost-effectiveness. To tackle frequency regulation challenges in remote desert-based renewable energy hubs—where traditional power infrastructure is unavailable—this study introduces a planning framework for an electro-hydrogen energy storage system with grid-forming capabilities, designed to supply both inertia and frequency response. At the system design stage, a direct current (DC) transmission network is modeled, integrating battery and hydrogen storage technologies. Using this configuration, the capacity settings for both grid-forming batteries and hydrogen units are optimized. This study then explores how hydrogen systems—comprising electrolyzers, storage tanks, and fuel cells—and grid-forming batteries contribute to inertial support. Virtual inertia models are established for each technology, enabling precise estimation of the total synthetic inertia provided. At the operational level, this study addresses stability concerns stemming from renewable generation variability by introducing three security indices. A joint optimization is performed for virtual inertia constants, which define the virtual inertia provided by energy storage systems to assist in frequency regulation, and primary frequency response parameters within the proposed storage scheme are optimized in this model. This enhances the frequency modulation potential of both systems and confirms the robustness of the proposed approach. Lastly, a real-world case study involving a 13 GW renewable energy base in Northwest China, connected via a ±10 GW HVDC export corridor, demonstrates the practical effectiveness of the optimization strategy and system configuration. Full article

The dry conversion of CO₂ into CO and O₂ provides an attractive path for CO₂ utilization which allows for the use of the CO produced for the synthesis of valuable hydrocarbons. In the following work, the CO₂ conversion is driven by an arc discharge at atmospheric pressure, producing hot plasma. This study presents a series of experiments aiming to optimize the process. The results obtained include the energy efficiency and the conversion rate of the process, as well as the electrical parameters of the discharge (current and voltage signals). In addition, optical emission spectroscopy diagnostics based on an analysis of C₂’s Swan bands are used to determine the gas temperature in the discharge. The data is analyzed according to several aspects—an analysis of the arc’s motion based on the electrical signals; an analysis of the effect of the gas flow and the discharge current on the discharge performance for CO₂ conversion; and an analysis of the vibrational and rotational temperatures of the arc channel. The results show significant improvements over previous studies. Relatively high gas conversion and energy efficiency are achieved due to the arc acceleration caused by the Lorentz force. The rotational (gas) temperatures are in the order of 5500–6000 K. Full article

To enhance the specific energy and rate performance of lithium primary batteries, the development of advanced cathode materials with superior electrochemical properties is essential. Fluorides, composed of light fluorine elements and multivalent cations, exhibit multi-electron reaction characteristics, possess a high theoretical voltage, and demonstrate high discharge-specific energy. However, owing to fluorine’s high electronegativity, which leads to the formation of strong ionic bonds with other elements, most fluorides exhibit poor electronic conductivity, thereby constraining their electrochemical performance when used as cathode materials. Copper fluoride (CuF₂) exhibits a high theoretical specific capacity and discharge voltage but is constrained by its large bandgap, poor electronic conductivity, and difficulties in synthesizing anhydrous CuF₂ materials, which significantly limit its electrochemical activity. In this study, zinc (Zn) was chosen as a dopant for copper fluoride. By combining theoretical calculations with experimental validation, the impacts of Zn doping on the structural stability and electrochemical performance of copper fluoride were comprehensively analyzed. The resultant highly active Zn-doped copper fluoride achieved a discharge specific capacity of 528.6 mAh/g at 0.1 C and 489.1 mAh/g at 1 C, showcasing superior discharge-specific energy and good rate performance. This material holds great potential as a promising cathode candidate for lithium batteries, providing both high specific energy and power density. Full article

Electric vehicles (EVs) play a critical role in the transition to transportation electrification and are important for achieving carbon neutrality in this sector. China currently leads the world in EV ownership; however, the energy regulation potential of in-use batteries remains largely untapped in the context of an increasingly saturated EV stock. This study systematically evaluates the long-term benefits of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) applications based on EV sales projections and advancements in battery technology. The results indicate that, without compromising daily travel requirements, V2X applications could enable 109.50–422.37 TWh of annual electricity dispatch by 2030, achieving an estimated economic benefit of 198.92–767.25 billion CNY, and reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by 45.01–173.60 Mt. By 2060, these figures are projected to increase significantly, with annual dispatchable electricity reaching 4217.39–21,689.43 TWh, generating an economic value of 10.82–55.66 trillion CNY, and reducing CO₂ emissions by 118.09–607.30 Mt. Furthermore, V2X applications could substantially contribute to achieving the emission reduction targets outlined in China’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These findings highlight that V2X applications, as a transformative solution that promotes deep integration between the transportation and power sectors, enhance cross-sectoral emission reduction synergies and support the realization of carbon neutrality goals. Full article

The design, synthesis, and application of composite materials based on manganese dioxide (MnO₂) for energy storage are pivotal in advancing efficient, sustainable, and high-performance energy storage systems. The MnO₂ is widely recognized for its abundance, low cost, environmental friendliness, and excellent electrochemical properties, making it a promising candidate for use in supercapacitors, batteries, fuel cells, and other energy storage systems. This study offers a comprehensive overview of how various materials influence the performance of MnO₂ as an energy storage medium. Specifically, the design of composite materials is examined with respect to morphological control, integration with conductive additives, doping strategies, and structural engineering, all of which impact the final material properties. Additionally, the influence of diverse synthetic techniques—including hydrothermal synthesis, electrochemical deposition, sol–gel processing, co-precipitation, and templating methods—is evaluated. The latest attempts through which the developed composites showcase improved structural stability, inherent conductivity, and electron mobility compared to the original first material are presented in this review article. The presented results have been quite promising for the synthesis of great-performing materials with improved electrochemical data compared to that of MnO₂ alone, competing with other significant energy storage materials. This review highlights future prospects for the development of state-of-the-art devices, large-scale production applications, and the use of environmentally friendly materials and methods. It is anticipated that this research will provide valuable insights to facilitate further improvements in performance and broaden the scope of practical applications in this rapidly evolving field of composite materials. Full article

In this study, we systematically analyzed selective lithium plating on graphite (Gr)–silicon (Si) composite anodes for lithium-ion batteries during fast charging, using electrochemical techniques. To achieve this, half-cells were first constructed with single Gr and Si electrodes, and lithium plating on each electrode was examined at different charging rates. It was observed that lithium plating on both electrodes began at a lower state of charge (SoC) as the charge rate increased. Furthermore, at a given charge rate, lithium plating occurred on the Si electrode at a lower SoC than on the Gr electrode. Based on the experimental findings, the lithium plating behavior of Gr and Si as a function of the charge rate was formulated to investigate the plating behavior of hypothetical composite electrodes with varying Gr–Si ratios. The lithium plating behavior observed on the actual composite electrode was consistent with that predicted from the hypothetical composite electrode, which was simulated using the same Gr–Si ratio based on the behaviors of the individual electrodes. By comparing the results from the single and composite electrodes, it is proposed that lithium plating occurs first on Si and then on Gr at low charge rates, whereas, at high charge rates, it proceeds first on Gr and then on Si. We discuss how to extrapolate the preferential plating signals—namely, plating onto Si at low charge rates and onto Gr at high charge rates—that are not directly evident in the signal from the actual composite electrode. Full article

The rapid growth of the private space industry has intensified the demand for lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective photovoltaic technologies. Metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) offer high power conversion efficiency (PCE), mechanical flexibility, and low-temperature solution processability, making them strong candidates for next-generation space power systems. However, exposure to extreme thermal cycling, high-energy radiation, vacuum, and ultraviolet light in space leads to severe degradation. This study addresses these challenges by introducing three key design strategies: self-healing perovskite compositions that recover from radiation-induced damage, gradient buffer layers that mitigate mechanical stress caused by thermal expansion mismatch, and advanced encapsulation that serves as a multifunctional barrier against space environmental stressors. These approaches enhance device resilience and operational stability in space. The design strategies discussed in this review are expected to support long-term power generation for low-cost satellites, high-altitude platforms, and deep-space missions. Additionally, insights gained from this research are applicable to terrestrial environments with high radiation or temperature extremes. Perovskite solar cells represent a transformative solution for space photovoltaics, offering a pathway toward scalable, flexible, and radiation-tolerant energy systems. Full article

High-temperature fuel cells and electrolyzers, particularly molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) and Molten Carbonate Electrolyzers (MCEs), are expected to play a critical role in clean power generation, hydrogen production, and integrated CO₂ separation. Unfortunately, despite their potential, these technologies have not yet reached full commercialization. The main reason for this is material degradation. In particular, the corrosion of metallic components continues to be a leading cause of performance loss and system failure. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of degradation mechanisms in MCFC and MCE systems. It examines key metallic components, such as current collectors and bipolar plates, focusing on the performance of commonly used materials, including stainless steels and advanced alloys, under prolonged exposure to corrosive environments. To address degradation issues, this review evaluates current mitigation strategies and discusses material selection, protective coatings application, and the optimization of operational parameters. Advances in alloy development, coatings, surface treatments, and process controls have been compared in terms of effectiveness, scalability, and long-term stability. The review concludes with a synthesis of current best practices and future directions, emphasizing the need for integrated, multi-functional solutions to achieve the lifetimes required for full commercialization. By linking materials science, electrochemistry, and systems engineering, this review offers directions for the development of corrosion-resistant MCFC and MCE technologies in support of a hydrogen-based, carbon-neutral energy future. Full article

In this study, the lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery type, which has a high-power density and utilizes lithium as the primary conductive terminal, has been employed. Within the scope of this research, a one-dimensional isothermal Li-ion battery model has been investigated under various electrolyte (both liquid and solid) and electrode materials using the COMSOL Multiphysics software. The obtained simulation results have been corroborated with information sourced from the literature and establish a foundational framework for future studies. The average range of electrolyte salt concentration in battery components is slightly higher for batteries utilizing polymer electrolytes compared to those with liquid electrolytes. During discharge at five different C-rates, Li-ion batteries with liquid electrolytes displayed higher voltage than those with polymer electrolytes. On the other hand, the one with the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) positive electrode exhibits the greatest variation in lithium concentration at the surface of the positive electrode at the end of discharge. Conversely, the battery using a LiNiO₂ cathode shows the smallest surface lithium concentration variation during the same period. This pattern is similarly observed for the lithium concentration at the center of the electrode particles. The presented model can be used to explore innovative electrolyte and electrode materials to improve the design of Li-ion batteries. Full article

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are a clean energy technology with wide application in transportation and stationary energy systems. Due to the problem of voltage degradation under long-term dynamic loads, predicting their performance degradation trend is of great significance for extending the life of proton exchange membrane fuel cells and improving system reliability. This study adopts a data-driven approach to construct a degradation prediction model. In view of the problem of many input parameters and complex distribution of degradation features, a neural network model based on a multi-head attention mechanism and class token is first proposed to analyze the impact of different operating parameters on the output voltage prediction. The importance of each input variable is quantified by the attention weight matrix to assist feature screening. Subsequently, a prediction model is constructed based on Transformer to characterize the voltage degradation trend of fuel cells under dynamic conditions. The experimental results show that the root mean square error and mean absolute error of the model in the test phase are 0.008954 and 0.006590, showing strong prediction performance. Based on the importance evaluation provided by the first model, 11 key parameters were selected as inputs. After this input simplification, the model still maintained a prediction accuracy comparable to that of the full-feature model. This result verifies the effectiveness of the feature screening strategy and demonstrates its contribution to improved generalization and robustness. Full article

Microbial electrochemical technologies (METs), such as microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), show promise for sustainable energy generation from biomass waste and wastewater. However, further work is necessary for their practical use. In particular, it has been argued that process performances, such as those for organics removal and energy generation, should be substantially improved to catch up with those of existing processes, such as anaerobic digesters. Recent work has reported that bioaugmentation (BA) with electroactive microbes (EAMs) can significantly improve the performance of MFCs and MECs, while previous reports have also documented BA cases with limited impacts. In this article, after summarizing EAMs that have been isolated and characterized as possible BA agents, we comparatively analyze past BA trials for MET processes. Based on the information thus obtained, key factors that should be considered for successful BA are suggested. Full article

Slurry-cast (SLC) electrode manufacturing faces problems such as thickness limitation and material stratification, which are caused by applying toxic organic solvents. Solvent-free electrode technology, as a sustainable alternative, could get rid of issues generated by solvents. In this study, dual-layer NCM811 solvent-free electrodes (DLEs) are fabricated via an electrostatic powder deposition method with an active material-rich upper layer to provide high energy output, while the more binder–conductor content base layer improves conductivity and contact with current collectors. The dual-layered structure overwhelms the single-layer electrode (SE) with stable cycling performance caused by more regulated pore structures. DLE maintains 74% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.3 C, while the SLC shows only 60% capacity retention. Additionally, DLE shows excellent rate performance at various rates, with 207.3 mAh g⁻¹, 193.9 mAh g⁻¹, 173.9 mAh g⁻¹, 157.3 mAh g⁻¹, and 120.4 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 C, 0.2 C, 0.5 C, 1.0 C, and 2.0 C, respectively. The well-designed DLE cathodes exhibit superior discharge-specific capacities, rate performance, and improved cycling stability than traditional SLC cathodes. It enlightens the path toward new structure innovations of solvent-free electrodes. Full article

The article describes a mathematical model of methanol steam reforming taking place at the anode of a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC). An artificial neural network with an appropriate structure was subjected to a learning process on the data obtained during an experiment on the laboratory stand for testing high-temperature fuel cells located at the Institute of Heat Engineering of the Warsaw University of Technology. The backpropagation of error method was used to train the neural network. The training data included the results of methanol steam reforming in the fuel cell for steam-to-carbon ratios of 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1. The artificial neural network was then asked to generate results for other steam-to-carbon ratios. As a result, the artificial neural network predicted that the highest power density for a molten carbonate fuel cell working on methanol would be obtained with a steam-to-carbon ratio of 2.8:1. The article’s key achievement is the application of artificial intelligence to calculate an unusual steam-to-carbon ratio for the methanol steam reforming process occurring directly at the anode of an MCFC fuel cell. The solution proposed in the article contributed to reducing the number of experimental studies. Full article