High Entropy Metal Chalcogenides as Air Breathing Cathodes in Reversible Zinc Air Batteries (HEMZAB)

ongoing

The growing concern regarding non-renewable fossil fuels and their adverse environmental impact has spurred the increasing exploration and utilization of renewable energy sources and the increasing development of energy storage devices. Within the energy storage systems, reversible batteries are the most performant in chemical-to-electrical energy transformation and vice versa. Currently, Li-ion batteries are dominating the energy storage market, though limited supply, high cost and safety concerns of the key material i.e. Li, is pushing the search for alternatives. In this regard, Zn-air batteries are the rising star of the future for Li-ion replacement. Yet there are two major challenges in the widespread adoption of Zn-air batteries: (i) sluggish oxygen redox (ORR/OER) reactions and (ii) instability of cathodic materials. This proposal will develop multi-component high entropy metal chalcogenides as bifunctional air cathodes having multiple active sites with tunable oxygen adsorption energies. Such a configuration will enable the facilitation of both ORR and OER effectively. In addition, it will enhance the stability of the cathodic catalysts. So the main goal of the project is to “Build a better Battery” by developing cost-effective, non-toxic and efficient catalysts that can boost the energy and power density of Zn-air batteries and enhance the stability of air cathodes. HEMZAB’s achievements will make advancements in cutting-edge Zn-air batteries that are pivotal to reaching the EU’s environmental targets for a reliable and green energy transition at a low cost.