Article
Chemistry, Physical
Sara Paydar, Kuno Kooser, Priit Moller, Olga Volobujeva, Sari Granroth, Enn Lust, Gunnar Nurk
Summary: Development of active ceramic hydrogen electrodes with high stability is crucial for the advancement of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). In this study, a series of cubic perovskite-type La/Ca/Fe-doped strontium titanates (LSCTF) were synthesized and evaluated for their crystallographic and electrical properties, catalytic activity, stability, and performance as fuel electrodes in SOFC. The results showed that LSCTF materials behave like semiconductors, and the conductivity, catalytic activity, and stability of the electrodes are significantly influenced by the Ca concentration in the A-site. The optimal composition of La0.2Sr0.35Ca0.35Ti0.95Fe0.05O3-delta fuel electrode exhibited a low polarization resistance value and the fuel cell with a 50 wt % La0.2Sr0.35Ca0.35Ti0.95Fe0.05O3-delta + 50 wt % Ce0.9Gd0.1O2-delta anode demonstrated high power density.
ACS APPLIED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Materials Science, Ceramics
Anjana P. Anantharaman, Hari Prasad Dasari
Summary: Pyrochlore structure materials have unique crystal structure, electrical properties, and thermal stability, making them widely applicable in catalysis, nuclear waste encapsulation, sensors, and electronic devices. The ionic/electronic conductivity of these materials is crucial for their performance in solid oxide fuel cells, where factors like cation radius ratio, oxygen migration, vacancy formation, and dopant addition play significant roles in enhancing the conductivity. Research has shown that controlling these factors can improve the ion and electron transport properties of pyrochlore materials, ultimately leading to better performance in various applications.
CERAMICS INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Electrochemistry
Fuqiang An, Weinan Zhou, Ping Li
Summary: Design and optimization of the microstructure of the lithium-ion cell electrode is crucial for improving rate capability. The particle packing model shows better agreement with experimental tests compared to the widely-utilized P2D electrochemical model, especially at high discharge rates. Investigation into parameters like tortuosity plays a significant role in improving the accuracy of the P2D model.
ELECTROCHIMICA ACTA
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Chih-Chun Chang, Chih-Che Chueh
Summary: In this study, three-dimensional microstructures of sintered core-shell spheres with different shell thicknesses and degrees of densification were generated using a drop-and-roll algorithm and a newly developed core-shell generation method. The effective conductivity of each microstructure was obtained using open-source software and compared with existing models. The results showed underprediction at core-shell volume fractions ϕ = 0.6-0.75 and overprediction at ϕ>0.85. Additionally, unique conductive ring and straight line patterns were observed in the heat flux calculation, indicating the presence of inhomogeneity in core-shell structures.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Rui Zhang, Gang Chen, Zhuo Chen, Ruixin Dai, Xiaohong Lv, Taiping Lou, Ying Li, Shujiang Geng
Summary: The sudden drop in ionic conductivity of GDC electrolyte at low temperatures in ceramic fuel cells with NCAL as electrode was attributed to the solidification of LiOH/Li2CO3 and other compounds from the NCAL anode below 419 degrees C, leading to a significant decrease in peak power density. This change was found to be the direct result of the rapid decrease in ionic conductivity caused by the solidification of LiOH/Li2CO3 and other substances at lower temperatures.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Marc Schumann, Carsten Cosse, Daniel Becker, Daniela Vorwerk, Detlef Schulz
Summary: This study explores the integration of fuel cells into grids or on-board power supplies to replace conventional energy producers. By implementing electric field modifier electrodes, the output voltage can be controlled to minimize subsequent power conditioning systems, improving efficiency.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Andraz Gnidovec, Anze Bozic, Simon Copar
Summary: Packing problems are common in nature and have been extensively studied through experiments and numerical models. This study focuses on the packing of ellipsoidal particles on a curved surface and finds that closed curved surfaces can introduce disorder, which is crucial for studying monodispersed random packings.
Article
Thermodynamics
Tiancheng Ouyang, Xiaoyi Hu, Xiaomin Shi, Wenjun Liu, Jie Lu, Wenhao Li
Summary: This paper proposes an innovative numerical model of microfluidic microbial fuel cell and investigates the effects of pH, dissolved oxygen, and electrode porosity on its performance and microbial distribution. The results show that pH gradient inhibits bacterial growth, higher electrode porosity enhances substrate transport, and higher dissolved oxygen concentration improves performance.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
L. Vichard, N. Yousfi Steiner, N. Zerhouni, D. Hissel
Summary: The paper aims to critically review existing methods to model all elements of a hybrid fuel cell system according to operating conditions and degradation. Interactions and major degradation mechanisms occurring at all components are presented and physics-based models, data-driven and hybrid models of these components are reviewed. Finally, methods are discussed, and advantages and drawbacks are summarized.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kazuhiko Omote, Tomoyuki Iwata, Katsuyoshi Kakinuma
Summary: A 3D structural model for a fuel cell catalysis system consisting of Pt and CeO2 nanoparticles was constructed using reverse Monte-Carlo method. The comparison of observed SAXS patterns and pore size distributions revealed the non-uniform distribution of Pt particles in the catalysis system.
ADVANCED THEORY AND SIMULATIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tatyana Reshetenko, Madeleine Odgaard, Guenter Randolf, Kenta K. Ohtaki, John P. Bradley, Barr Zulevi, Xiang Lyu, David A. Cullen, Charl J. Jafta, Alexey Serov, Andrei Kulikovsky
Summary: In this study, a cathodic catalysts layer (CCL) design was achieved using a catalyst coated membrane approach with Platinum Group Metal-free (PGM-free) electrocatalysts. Three different Fe-Mn-N-C compounds were synthesized and characterized, and their electrochemical properties were evaluated. It was found that the CCLs exhibited high proton conductivity and predominantly exhibited a 4e- oxygen reduction reaction mechanism.
APPLIED CATALYSIS B-ENVIRONMENTAL
(2022)
Article
Physics, Fluids & Plasmas
F. M. L. Pimentel, N. De La Cruz Felix, L. S. Ramirez, A. J. Ramirez-Pastor
Summary: Numerical simulations and finite-size scaling analysis were conducted to study the problem of inverse percolation by removing semirigid rods from a square lattice. The results show that the jamming coverage exhibits an increasing dependence on the size k, while the inverse percolation threshold is a decreasing function of k.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
S. H. Chu, W. L. Lam, L. Li, Chi Sun Poon
Summary: The particle packing of cementitious materials is crucial for the performance of paste, especially in 3D printable concrete and ultra-high performance concrete. However, the scientific understanding of particle packing in these materials is insufficient. This study used the wet packing method to measure the wet packing density of ternary particle systems and determined the optimum system. Comparison with existing models showed the limitations of the current model. A design approach based on packing density will advance particle packing-oriented cement and concrete science for sustainable design.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Zhenglong Lei, Shibo Wu, Meng Jiang, Jingwei Liang, Bingwei Li, Yanbin Chen
Summary: This study combines experiments and simulation to systematically investigate powder spreading dynamics, introducing an experimental calibration method for powder layer height and blade geometry. The study identifies the contributions to packing density fluctuations from various factors and establishes the importance of long-duration jamming events for the formation of empty patches. The results provide insights for optimizing particle packing and support subsequent modeling of laser-material interaction and melt pool dynamics.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
R. Angayarkanni, Aristatil Ganesan, M. Dhelipan, S. Karthikeyan, N. Mani, P. Thiyagarajan
Summary: The fuel cell operated successfully without external humidification support by utilizing a novel silica composite layer, showing improved performance compared to a commercial catalyst MEA. The silica layer provided a well-humidified environment for proton transfer, demonstrating excellent electrochemical stability and durability in both dry and humidified gas conditions.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
Zengjia Guo, Qidong Xu, Meng Ni
Summary: Battery aging significantly affects the thermal characteristics and electrochemical performance of electric vehicle batteries. This research develops a realistic and generic model for the design of battery thermal management systems (BTMS) to ensure efficient and durable operation of batteries. The study shows that BTMS provides effective cooling to batteries in their initial working cycles but fails to control the battery temperature after aging. Furthermore, BTMS with Y direction mini-channels provides more effective cooling and achieves good electrochemical performance.
APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Jie Yu, Zheng Li, Tong Liu, Siyuan Zhao, Daqin Guan, Daifen Chen, Zongping Shao, Meng Ni
Summary: This article summarizes recent efforts and progress in regulating the electronic and morphological structures of CoxAy (A = P, S, Se)-based materials for the optimization of their catalytic performance. Methods such as phase control, defect engineering, nanostructure construction, heteroatom doping, and composite engineering are introduced to optimize the electronic configurations, increase active sites, and enhance the conductivity, etc. Furthermore, the underlying activity-structure relationships behind the boosted catalytic behavior of these materials are discussed in detail. Lastly, a perspective on the future exploration of CoxAy (A = P, S, Se)-based electrocatalysts is presented. This review provides valuable insights into the investigation of emerging materials in energy chemistry.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Zengjia Guo, Qidong Xu, Yang Wang, Tianshou Zhao, Meng Ni
Summary: This paper develops a realistic and generic model combining electrochemical reactions, capacity decay, and heat transfer for the design of battery thermal management system (BTMS). The multiphysics behaviors of HP-BTMS and MHP-BTMS under different working cycles are analyzed and compared. It is found that HP-BTMS and MHP-BTMS can provide good thermal management for batteries for only several working cycles. The optimized MHP-BTMS with X direction MHP, non-equidistant arrangements, and cold plates effectively controls the battery temperature even after 1250 cycles, preventing SEI formation and capacity decay.
Article
Thermodynamics
Zheng Li, Qijiao He, Chen Wang, Na Yu, Idris Temitope Bello, Meiting Guo, Meng Ni
Summary: Protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) were studied to investigate the effects of structural parameters on cogeneration performance. Increasing cell length and electrochemical reaction section (ERS) enhance the ethylene yield. The highest ethylene yield of 44% was obtained in a 10 cm PCFC at 973 K. By decreasing the ERS ratio, the current density can be enhanced up to 14% and reaches the highest value of 2235 A m(-2) in an 8 cm PCFC with a 30% ERS ratio. This model provides insights into the relationship between structural parameters and cogeneration performance in PCFC and can be applied to other hydrocarbon fuels.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yi Sun, Tang Qian, Jingdong Zhu, Nan Zheng, Yu Han, Gang Xiao, Meng Ni, Haoran Xu
Summary: In this study, a reversible solid oxide cell (rSOC) was used to flexibly switch between the electrolysis mode and the fuel cell mode for electrical energy storage and power generation. By using steam as anode sweeping gas and solar photovoltaic as the power supply, the overall efficiency, H2 production, power generation, and power density of the system were significantly improved. This study provides guidance for the optimization of practical rSOC application under dynamic operating conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Yu Han, Meiting Guo, Anwei Sun, Hongwei Liu, Gang Xiao, Yi Sun, Meng Ni, Haoran Xu
Summary: The use of metal foam can significantly enhance the heat transfer process and achieve an even temperature distribution in the CA-SOEC, thus reducing thermal stress. The results provide useful information for the structure optimization of solid oxide cells using carbon fuels.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuan Zhang, Junbiao Li, Heping Xie, Zhipeng Liu, Suling Shen, Ying Teng, Daqin Guan, Shuo Zhai, Yufei Song, Wei Zhou, Bin Chen, Meng Ni, Zongping Shao
Summary: By utilizing a CO2-induced reconstruction strategy, a BaCO3 shell with both oxygen incorporative and robust properties was successfully built on a self-assembled composite cathode made of BaFeO3-delta perovskite. The resulting cathode exhibited enhanced ORR activity, durability, and thermomechanical compatibility.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ping He, Jin Xue, Geoffrey Qiping Shen, Meng Ni, Shengwei Wang, Han Wang, Lijie Huang
Summary: Under the context of climate change, there is a call for a paradigm shift towards environmentally sensitive urban design. This study examines the impact of neighborhood layout heterogeneity on carbon emissions, considering five indicators and different renewable energy application ratios. Through multiple linear regression analysis, it is found that building density and shape heterogeneity significantly influence neighborhood carbon emissions. The heterogeneity of building height hinders carbon reduction efforts, while the heterogeneity of building shape improves carbon reduction through facade solar energy collection. However, there is a trade-off in decision-making when designing low-carbon neighborhoods due to the opposite effects of layout heterogeneity on solar energy collection and building energy consumption.
ENERGY AND BUILDINGS
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Tonghui Cui, Jianzhong Zhu, Zewei Lyu, Han Minfang, Kaihua Sun, Yang Liu, Meng Ni
Summary: Coupling external heat sources effectively reduces energy consumption and improves the efficiency of the solid oxide electrolysis (SOEC) system. Three coupling scenarios are defined based on the internal heat demand and the temperature of external heat sources. The study analyzes the influence of critical parameters on system efficiency and provides insights for selecting optimal working conditions and guiding online control during system operation.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhaojian Liang, Jingyi Wang, Yang Wang, Meng Ni, Mengying Li
Summary: This study proposes a high-resolution, 3D, transient numerical model and an adaptive time-stepping strategy to investigate the transient characteristics of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC) under different power-supply conditions. The results show that fast voltage changes can lead to electrical undershoots or overshoots, reflecting the disparities between the steady and transient current-voltage characteristics. The study also reveals that the cell structure, such as the rib and channel length, has significant impacts on the electrical responses in the functional layer.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Zengjia Guo, Yang Wang, Siyuan Zhao, Tianshou Zhao, Meng Ni
Summary: A multi-physics model is developed for micro heat pipe battery thermal management system (MHP-BTMS) considering battery aging effect. A novel multi-variables global optimization framework is established for optimizing the structural parameters of MHP-BTMS to improve battery thermal management and electrochemical performance simultaneously. The research finds that MHP-BTMS fails to control the temperature of aged battery pack due to the higher heat generation caused by solid electrolyte interphase formation. Additionally, the study shows that battery electrochemical performance is highly related to battery thermal behaviors.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Yunhong Jiang, Heping Xie, Lu Han, Yuan Zhang, Yanhuai Ding, Suling Shen, Bin Chen, Meng Ni
Summary: As the lightest member of the transition metal disulfides family, TiS2 has attracted increasing attention due to its large specific surface area, adjustable band gap, good visible light absorption, and good charge transport properties. This review summarizes the recent advances in the syntheses and applications of TiS2 in energy storage, electronic devices, and catalysis. The synthesis of TiS2 can be divided into solid phase, liquid phase, and gas phase. Its applications include energy storage, electronic devices, and catalysis, with potential for future development.
PROGRESS IN NATURAL SCIENCE-MATERIALS INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Siyuan Wang, Miao Wang, Yunze Zhang, Hongsheng Wang, Hao Fei, Ruoqi Liu, Hui Kong, Ruijie Gao, Siyuan Zhao, Tong Liu, Yuhao Wang, Meng Ni, Francesco Ciucci, Jian Wang
Summary: The sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) limits the large-scale application of electrochemical energy devices. Metal oxide-supported metal catalysts (MOSMCs) are gaining interest due to their unique electronic configuration and corrosion resistance. MOSMCs can be modulated by engineering the metal oxide substrate and supported metal. This review comprehensively discusses the characterization, modulation strategies, and status of MOSMCs for ORR, and promotes rational design for electrochemical energy devices.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Siyuan Zhao, Tong Liu, Yayu Zuo, Manhui Wei, Jian Wang, Zongping Shao, Dennis Y. C. Leung, Tianshou Zhao, Meng Ni
Summary: To achieve long-duration energy storage, a technological and economical battery technology is crucial. This study presents an all-around zinc-air flow battery that utilizes a decoupled acid-alkaline electrolyte to elevate the discharge voltage and a reaction modifier KI to lower the charging voltage. This battery exhibits long discharge duration, high power density, unprecedented energy efficiency, and outstanding fast charging ability, making it a promising option for long-duration energy storage and a catalyst for the development of other systems.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Qijiao He, Zheng Li, Dongqi Zhao, Jie Yu, Peng Tan, Meiting Guo, Tianjun Liao, Tianshou Zhao, Meng Ni
Summary: A 3D numerical model was developed to study the impact of practical operating temperature on the performance of vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). The results showed that the operating temperature significantly influenced the optimal design of VRFBs. Increasing the inlet flow rate and state of charge, decreasing the electrode porosity and fiber diameter all improved battery performance, with the improvement being more pronounced at higher temperatures.
