Search Results (40)

The large-scale integration of volatile and intermittent renewables necessitates greater flexibility in the power system. Improving this flexibility is key to achieving a high proportion of renewable energy consumption. In this context, the scientific selection of energy storage technology is of great significance for the construction of new power systems. From the perspective of life cycle cost analysis, this paper conducts an economic evaluation of four mainstream energy storage technologies: lithium iron phosphate battery, pumped storage, compressed air energy storage, and hydrogen energy storage, and quantifies and compares the life cycle cost of multiple energy storage technologies. On this basis, a three-dimensional multi-energy storage comprehensive evaluation indicator system covering economy, technology, and environment is constructed. The improved grade one method and entropy weight method are used to determine the comprehensive performance, and the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is used to carry out multi-attribute decision-making on the multi-energy storage technology in the source, network, and load scenarios. The results show that pumped storage and compressed air energy storage have significant economic advantages in long-term and large-scale application scenarios. With its fast response ability and excellent economic and technical characteristics, the lithium iron phosphate battery has the smallest score change rate (15.2%) in various scenarios, showing high adaptability. However, hydrogen energy storage technology still lacks economic and technological maturity, and breakthrough progress is still needed for its wide application in various application scenarios in the future. Full article

This paper explores the implementation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in underground mining operations, focusing on their benefits, challenges, and safety considerations. The study examines the shift from traditional diesel-powered machinery to BEVs in response to increasing environmental concerns and stricter emission regulations. It discusses various lithium-ion battery chemistries used in BEVs, particularly lithium–iron–phosphate (LFP) and nickel–manganese–cobalt (NMC), comparing their performance, safety, and suitability for underground mining applications. The research highlights the significant benefits of BEVs, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality in confined spaces, and potential ventilation cost savings. However, it also addresses critical safety concerns, such as fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the emission of toxic gases during thermal runaway events. The manuscript emphasises the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation strategies when introducing BEVs to underground mining environments. It concludes that while BEVs offer promising solutions for more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining operations, further research is needed to ensure their safe integration into underground mining practices. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discussion on the future of mining technology and its environmental impact. Full article

The development of efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective catalysts is crucial for energy storage technologies, such as zinc–air batteries (ZABs). These batteries require bifunctional catalysts capable of efficiently and selectively catalyzing oxygen redox reactions. However, the high cost and low selectivity of conventional catalysts hinder the large-scale integration of ZABs into the electric grid. This study presents binder-free Fe-based bifunctional electrocatalysts synthesized via a sol–gel method, followed by thermal treatment under ammonia flow. Supported on nickel foam, the catalyst exhibits enhanced activity for both the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), essential for ZAB operation. This work addresses two critical challenges in the development of ZABs: first, the replacement of costly cobalt or platinum-group-metal (PGM)-based catalysts with an efficient alternative; second, the achievement of prolonged battery performance under real conditions without passivation. Structural analysis confirms the integration of iron nitrides, oxides, and carbon, resulting in high conductivity and catalytic stability without relying on precious or cobalt-based metals. Electrochemical tests reveal that the catalyst calcined at 800 °C delivers superior performance, achieving a four-electron ORR mechanism and prolonged operational life compared to its 900 °C counterpart. Both catalysts outperform conventional Pt/C-RuO₂ systems in stability and selective bifunctionality, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative. The innovative combination of nitrogen, carbon, and iron compounds overcomes limitations associated with traditional materials, paving the way for scalable, high-performance applications in renewable energy storage. This work underscores the potential of transition metal-based catalysts in advancing the commercial viability of ZABs. Full article

Three partly coupled integrated nuclear energy systems are described. These enable base-load nuclear reactors to provide fully dispatchable electricity without greenhouse-gas emissions, thus replacing gas turbines burning natural gas and batteries storing electricity. These hybrid systems link the industrial sector to the electricity sector. Firstly, electricity-to-high-temperature (1800 °C) gigawatt-hour firebrick heat storage converts low-price electricity to high-temperature stored heat to provide dispatchable heat for industry and power generation. Secondly, Nuclear Air-Brayton Combined Cycles (NACC) with thermodynamic topping cycles using high-temperature stored heat or combustible fuel to provide dispatchable electricity. Peak power output can be two to five times the base-load electricity production. The heat-to-electricity efficiency of the thermodynamic topping cycles exceeds 70%. Thirdly, nuclear hydrogen production for industrial markets enables the production of dispatchable electricity where hydrogen is used for energy storage but not to produce heat and electricity. Base-load nuclear reactors send electricity to the grid and/or electrolyzers for hydrogen production depending upon electricity prices. Low-cost hydrogen storage enables us to meet steady-state industrial hydrogen demands, even though hydrogen and grid electricity production is varied. Hydrogen production for industrial uses (ammonia fertilizer, direct reduction of iron ore to iron replacing coke, cellulosic liquid hydrocarbon biofuels replacing crude oil) may exceed 20% of total energy demand and may be a massive source of dispatchable electricity. The biofuels provide storable energy when heat storage is depleted. Full article

Metal–air batteries represent a category of energy storage system that leverages the reaction between metal and oxygen from the atmosphere to produce electricity. These batteries, known for their high energy density, have attracted considerable attention as potential solutions for extending the range of electric vehicles. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of metal-air batteries as range extenders is crucial for advancing electric vehicle technology, as these batteries could offer the additional energy needed to overcome current range limitations. This review paper provides a detailed overview of various metal-air battery technologies, delving into their design, functionality, and inherent challenges. By analyzing key theoretical and practical parameters, the study highlights how these factors influence overall battery performance. Additionally, the review addresses critical cost considerations, particularly the relationship between vehicle cost and driving range, uncovering the significant trade-offs involved in adopting metal-air batteries. Through an examination of nearly all the existing metal-air batteries, this paper sheds light on their potential to serve as effective range extenders, thereby facilitating the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation landscape. Full article

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one of the most critical reactions in energy conversion systems, and it facilitates the efficient conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy, which is necessary for modern technology. Developing efficient and cost-effective catalysts for ORRs is crucial for advancing and effectively applying renewable energy technologies such as fuel cells, metal–air batteries, and electrochemical sensors. In recent years, iron porphyrin-based composites have emerged as ideal catalysts for facilitating effective ORRs due to their unique structural characteristics, abundance, advances in synthesis, and excellent catalytic properties, which mimic natural enzymatic systems. However, many articles have focused on reviewing porphyrin-based frameworks or metalloporphyrins in general, necessitating research specifically addressing iron porphyrin. This review discusses iron porphyrin as an effective catalyst in ORRs. It provides a comprehensive knowledge of the application of iron porphyrin-based composites for electrocatalytic ORRs, focusing on their properties, synthesis, structural integration with conductive supports, catalytic mechanism, and efficacy. This review also discusses the challenges of applying iron porphyrin-based composites and provides recommendations to address these challenges. Full article

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are employed in a range of devices due to their high energy and power density. However, the increased power density of LIBs raises concerns regarding their safety when subjected to external abuse. The thermal behavior is influenced by a number of factors, i.e., the state of charge (SoC), the cell chemistry and the abuse conditions. In this study, three distinct cylindrical Li-ion cells, i.e., lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), lithium titanate oxide (LTO), and lithium iron phosphate (LFP), were subjected to thermal abuse (heating rate of 5 °C/min) in an air flow reactor, with 100% SoC. Venting and thermal runaway (TR) were recorded in terms of temperature and pressure, while the emitted products (gas, solid, and liquid) were subjected to analysis by FT-IR and ICP-OES. The concentrations of the toxic gases (HF, CO) are significantly in excess of the Immediate Danger to Life or Health Limit (IDLH). Furthermore, it is observed that the solid particles are the result of electrode degradation (metallic nature), whereas the liquid aerosol is derived from the electrolyte solvent. It is therefore evident that in the event of a LIB fire, in order to enhance the safety of the emergency responders, it is necessary to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in order to minimize exposure to toxic substances, i.e., particles and aerosol. Full article

The rapid development of new energy vehicles and Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs) has significantly mitigated urban air pollution. However, the disposal of spent LIBs presents a considerable threat to the environment. Recycling these waste LIBs not only addresses the environmental issues but also compensates for resource shortages and generates substantial economic benefits. Current recycling processes primarily focus on the extraction of valuable metals, often overlooking the treatment of residual waste post-extraction. This project targets the iron phosphate (FePO₄) derived from waste lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery materials, proposing a direct acid leaching purification process to obtain high-purity iron phosphate. This purified iron phosphate can then be used for the preparation of new LFP battery materials, aiming to establish a complete regeneration cycle that recovers lithium carbonate and iron phosphate from waste LFP materials for the production of LFP. The study investigates process parameters such as acid types and concentrations, leaching time, and the number of leaching cycles. The results demonstrate that, after purification, the levels of impurity metals decrease while the iron content increases correspondingly. Under optimized experimental conditions, the dilute sulfuric acid leaching rates of Al, Cu, Ca, and Ni reached 36.0%, 51.4%, 89.5%, and 90.9%, respectively. Furthermore, hydrothermal treatment in dilute phosphoric acid achieved leaching rates of 87.9%, 85.8%, 98.4%, and 99.1% for Al, Ca, Cu, and Ni, respectively. The microstructure characterization revealed significant changes in phase and grain morphology during the leaching process in dilute phosphoric acid, which are likely associated with the liberation of impurity atoms from the lattice. These findings indicate that acid leaching is highly effective in removing impurities from the iron phosphate recycled from waste LIBs. Full article

In response to the global pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions, the electrification of agricultural machinery is becoming a significant research and development trend. This study introduces the overall design of a 4 kW air compressor aimed at achieving a green vision for agricultural machinery. The design focuses on providing continuous and stable power and air output using a lithium-ion battery. Durability and cost-effectiveness are prioritized, with a particular emphasis on the Arduino system for integrating battery and motor systems to withstand harsh conditions and ensure ease of maintenance. A permanent magnet brushless motor was selected as the power source, paired with an optimized pulley to supply the proper torque to the air compressor. The system employs an Arduino-based feedback control sensor for air pressure regulation, ensuring energy efficiency. The primary energy source is a 48 V lithium iron phosphate battery, known for its high energy density and safety. The battery design focuses on system integration, addressing specific environmental discharge requirements. The embedded battery management system provides thermal and lifecycle parameter estimation, guaranteeing long-duration power supply and safe operation under various conditions. Unlike traditional fuel-driven systems, lithium iron phosphate batteries do not emit harmful gases, aligning with environmental standards. System integration testing demonstrated that the air pressure feedback control effectively meets the energy-saving requirements by digitally reducing power output as air accumulates in the chamber. Bench testing confirmed that the system performs as designed, achieving the desired results and advancing the goal of sustainable agricultural machinery. Full article

A Fe-Co dual-metal co-doped N containing the carbon composite (FeCo-HNC) was prepared by adjusting the ratio of iron to cobalt as well as the pyrolysis temperature with the assistance of functionalized silica template. Fe₁Co-HNC, which was formed with 1D carbon nanotubes and 2D carbon nanosheets including a rich mesoporous structure, exhibited outstanding oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalytic activities. The ORR half-wave potential is 0.86 V (vs. reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE), and the OER overpotential is 0.76 V at 10 mA cm⁻² with the Fe₁Co-HNC catalyst. It also displayed superior performance in zinc–air batteries. This method provides a promising strategy for the fabrication of efficient transition metal-based carbon catalysts. Full article

The synthesis of novel catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction, by means of a fast one-pot microwave-assisted procedure, is reported herein and deeply explained. In particular, the important role of doping atoms, like sulfur and nitrogen, in Fe₂O₃-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites is described to address the modification of catalytic performance. The presence of dopants is confirmed by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy analysis, while the integration of iron oxide nanoparticles, by means of decoration of the graphene structure, is corroborated by electron microscopy, which also confirms that there is no damage to the graphene sheets induced by the synthesis procedure. The electrochemical characterizations put in evidence the synergistic catalysis effects of dopant atoms with Fe₂O₃ and, in particular, the importance of sulfur introduction into the graphene lattice. Catalytic performance of as-prepared materials toward oxygen reduction shows values close to the Pt/C reference material, commonly used for fuel cell and metal–air battery applications. Full article

A Zn–air battery serves as an energy storage solution to address fossil energy and environmental concerns. However, sluggish kinetics in oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) and oxygen evolution reactions (OERs) demand innovative, cost-effective, and stable bifunctional catalysts to replace precious metal catalysts. In this study, an FeCo-CNTs/KB catalyst was synthesized by pyrolyzing NH₂-MIL-101(Fe) coated with glu-Co and conductive carbon (KB). This hierarchical structure comprises carbon nanotubes (CNTs) grafted onto a carbon matrix, housing abundant FeCo nanoparticles within the nanotubes or matrix. KB introduction enhances FeCo nanoparticle dispersion and fosters uniform CNT formation with smaller diameters, thus exposing active sites. Consequently, the FeCo-CNTs/KB catalyst exhibits remarkable bifunctional electrocatalytic activity: an ORR half-wave potential of 0.84 V and an OER overpotential of 0.45 V (10 mA cm⁻²). Furthermore, the FeCo-CNTs/KB catalyst in a secondary Zn–air battery showcases enduring charge–discharge performance (≥300 h). Full article

High-entropy materials (HEMs) constitute a revolutionary class of materials that have garnered significant attention in the field of materials science, exhibiting extraordinary properties in the realm of energy storage. These equimolar multielemental compounds have demonstrated increased charge capacities, enhanced ionic conductivities, and a prolonged cycle life, attributed to their structural stability. In the anode, transitioning from the traditional graphite (372 mAh g⁻¹) to an HEM anode can increase capacity and enhance cycling stability. For cathodes, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) can be replaced with new cathodes made from HEMs, leading to greater energy storage. HEMs play a significant role in electrolytes, where they can be utilized as solid electrolytes, such as in ceramics and polymers, or as new high-entropy liquid electrolytes, resulting in longer cycling life, higher ionic conductivities, and stability over wide temperature ranges. The incorporation of HEMs in metal–air batteries offers methods to mitigate the formation of unwanted byproducts, such as Zn(OH)₄ and Li₂CO₃, when used with atmospheric air, resulting in improved cycling life and electrochemical stability. This review examines the basic characteristics of HEMs, with a focus on the various applications of HEMs for use as different components in lithium-ion batteries. The electrochemical performance of these materials is examined, highlighting improvements such as specific capacity, stability, and a longer cycle life. The utilization of HEMs in new anodes, cathodes, separators, and electrolytes offers a promising path towards future energy storage solutions with higher energy densities, improved safety, and a longer cycling life. Full article

In the context of an insulated area with a subtropical climate, such as La Réunion island, it is crucial to reduce the energy consumption of buildings and develop local renewable energy sources to achieve energy autonomy. Direct current (DC) nanogrids could facilitate this by reducing the energy conversion steps, especially for solar energy. This article presents the deployment and efficiency evaluation of a 48 VDC low-voltage direct current (LVDC) nanogrid, from conception to real-world installation within a company. The nanogrid consists of a photovoltaic power plant, a lithium–iron–phosphate (LFP) battery, and DC end-use equipment, such as LED lighting and DC fans, for two individual offices. For identical test conditions, which are at an equivalent cabling distance and with the same final power demand, the total power consumed by the installation is measured for several stages from 50 to 400 W, according to a 100% DC configuration or a conventional DC/AC/DC PV configuration incorporating an inverter and AC/DC converter. The methodology used enables a critical view to be taken of the installation, assessing both its efficiency and its limitations. Energy savings of between 23% and 40% are measured in DC for a power limit identified at 150 W for a distance of 25 m. These results show that it is possible to supply 48 VDC in an innovative way to terminal equipment consuming no more than 100 W, such as lighting and air fans, using the IEEE 802.3 bt power over ethernet (PoE) protocol, while at the same time saving energy. The nanogrid hardware and software infrastructure, the methodology employed for efficiency quantification, and the measurement results are described in the paper. Full article

Recent advancements in energy conversion and storage systems have placed a spotlight on the role of multi-functional electrodes employing conductive substrates. These substrates, however, often face obstacles due to intricate and expensive production methods, as well as limitations in thickness. This research introduces a novel, economical approach using graphite felt as a versatile electrode. A method to enhance the typically low conductivity of graphite felt was devised, incorporating interfacial chemical tuning and the electrodeposition of a highly conductive nickel layer. This technique facilitates the integration of diverse transition metal-based active sites, aiming to refine the catalytic activity for specific electrochemical reactions. A key finding is that a combination of a nickel-rich cathode and an iron-rich anode can effectively optimize alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production at the ampere scale. Furthermore, the addition of sulfur improves the bi-functional oxygen-related redox reactions, rendering it ideal for air cathodes in solid-state zinc–air batteries. The assembled battery exhibits impressive performance, including a peak power density of 62.9 mW cm⁻², a minimal voltage gap in discharge–charge polarization, and a lifecycle surpassing 70 h. This advancement in electrode technology signifies a significant leap in energy storage and conversion, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for future energy systems. Full article