Research

Physical Sciences

Title :

External magnetic field-assisted electrochemical water splitting reactor using a flexible electrode of Mo2TiC2Tx and WO3 nanorod heterostructures

Area of research :

Physical Sciences

Focus area :

Nanoscience

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Nagamony Ponpandian, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2027

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

The research aims to develop a highly efficient electrochemical water-splitting reactor using nanoscale materials deposited on working electrodes and an external magnetic field. Electrochemical water splitting is a critical step towards fulfilling future energy demands while ensuring the safety of the planet from the adverse effects of fossil fuels. Among various techniques, electrochemical water splitting using nanoscale materials has been widely studied to minimize the energy required for water splitting, which is 1.23 eV, by employing nanomaterials with superior catalytic activity and redox capability. The current process requires substantial energy input, and the proposed design seeks to reduce this energy requirement while enhancing the overall efficiency of water splitting. Recently, the use of Mxenes has dominated various applications, including water splitting. Mxenes are two-dimensional materials with excellent structural properties, including high conductivity, high surface area, and unique surface chemistry. From literature surveys, we have found that Mo2TiC2Tx Mxene is at the forefront in terms of its low overpotential for water splitting and moderate durability compared to other Mxene family members. The hypothesis is that incorporating WO3 nanorods into the Mo2TiC2Tx Mxene structure will improve its stability, and further coating the electrocatalyst onto a flexible carbon cloth will enhance its electrochemical performance for water splitting. Additionally, the use of an external magnetic field, specifically a Helmholtz coil, will further increase the efficiency of the water splitting process. The primary experiments include synthesizing and characterizing the CC@Mo2TiC2Tx or WO3 working electrodes, testing their electrochemical performance for water splitting with the aid of an external magnetic field, and constructing an electrochemical water-splitting reactor with inbuilt magnetic field coils. If successful, the research will significantly contribute to the fundamental understanding of electrochemical water splitting and the practical application of this technology. The use of nanoscale materials and an external magnetic field in the water-splitting process could revolutionize the energy industry by reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and promoting the production of green hydrogen. The dissemination and patenting of the design to potential stakeholders could facilitate the commercialization of this technology and accelerate its adoption in various industrial and domestic settings.

Co-PI:

Dr. Viswanathan Chinnuswamy, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Total Budget (INR):

44,76,516

Organizations involved