Conducting ITO Nanoparticle-Based Aerogels—Nonaqueous One-Pot Synthesis vs. Particle Assembly Routes

Indium tin oxide (ITO) aerogels offer a combination of high surface area, porosity and conductive properties and could therefore be a promising material for electrodes in the fields of batteries, solar cells and fuel cells, as well as for optoelectronic applications. In this study, ITO aerogels were synthesized via two different approaches, followed by critical point drying (CPD) with liquid CO2. During the nonaqueous one-pot sol–gel synthesis in benzylamine (BnNH2), the ITO nanoparticles arranged to form a gel, which could be directly processed into an aerogel via solvent exchange, followed by CPD. Alternatively, for the analogous nonaqueous sol–gel synthesis in benzyl alcohol (BnOH), ITO nanoparticles were obtained and assembled into macroscopic aerogels with centimeter dimensions by controlled destabilization of a concentrated dispersion and CPD. As-synthesized ITO aerogels showed low electrical conductivities, but an improvement of two to three orders of magnitude was achieved by annealing, resulting in an electrical resistivity of 64.5–1.6 kΩ·cm. Annealing in a N2 atmosphere led to an even lower resistivity of 0.2–0.6 kΩ·cm. Concurrently, the BET surface area decreased from 106.2 to 55.6 m2/g with increasing annealing temperature. In essence, both synthesis strategies resulted in aerogels with attractive properties, showing great potential for many applications in energy storage and for optoelectronic devices.ISSN:2310-286

Step‐by‐step monitoring of a magnetic and SERS‐active immunosensor assembly for purification and detection of tau protein

We report a bottom‐up synthesis of iron oxide and gold nanoparticles, which are functionalized and combined to form a nanohybrid serving as an immune sensor, which selectively binds to tau protein, a biomarker for diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Detection of the target analyte is achieved by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering originating from the diagnostic part of the nanohybrid that was prepared from Au nanoparticles functionalized with 5,5′‐dithiobis‐(2‐nitrobenzoic acid) as a Raman reporter and monoclonal anti‐tau antibody. The magnetic part consists of FeₓOy nanoparticles functionalized with polyclonal anti‐tau antibody and is capable to separate tau protein from a complex matrix such as cerebrospinal fluid. We further identified and validated a set of analytical tools that allow monitoring the success of both nanoparticle preparation and each functionalization step performed during the assembly of the two binding sites by an immune reaction. By applying UV/Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential measurements, X‐ray diffraction, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, and transmission electron microscopy, we demonstrate a proof‐of‐concept for a controlled and step‐by‐step traceable synthesis of a tau protein‐specific immune sensor

Development and Environmental Assessment of a Phase Change Material Based Thermal Management System for Na/NiCl₂ Batteries

The sodium/nickel chloride battery (Na/NiCl2) is considered an eco-friendly, long-term stable and safe alternative to other secondary battery technologies. The overall system efficiency of this high-temperature battery can be increased by optimizing the thermal management system. This paper addresses the integration of a phase change material (PCM) into the battery modules and evaluates the thermal performance and environmental impact of such a design. The module layout with PCM and heat transfer elements (HTEs) was selected based on 2D FEM simulation results and verified in a prototype Na/NiCl2 module. It was shown that the module temperatures could be kept within the operating limits during operation by the HTEs and the PCM even at high current rates. Since no critical temperature limits were reached, the usable battery capacity was higher compared to results of a reference module without PCM or HTEs. In addition, the PCM prolonged the cooling down process after discharge. In parallel with the experimental studies, the environmental performance of the battery was evaluated using a life cycle assessment (LCA). Amongst other things, it was found that the application of PCM is also beneficial from an ecological point of view

Comminution and Classification as Important Processes for the Circular Production of Lithium Batteries

   This presentation explores the pivotal role of comminution and classification processes in fostering the circular production of lithium batteries. Beginning with an overview of the sustainability challenges within lithium-ion battery (LiB) production, it delves into the sustainable production of electrodes and cells. Key topics include the integration of comminution and classification processes into electrode material synthesis, mechanochemical synthesis for solid electrolytes, and the importance of dispersion in enhancing battery performance. Additionally, it highlights advancements in recycling processes for production scrap and end-of-life batteries. The presentation concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the future of milling and classification processes in shaping the energy storage materials industry.</p