Materiais renováveis obtidos a partir da biomassa para as tecnologias de armazenamento e conversão de energia eletroquímica

BioEESC main goal is the development of innovative, highly cost-effective, safe biopolymer electrolytes for solid-state sodium batteries and PEMFCs. Both EESC technologies show promise, but addressing limitations related with high cost and poor durability of the key performance components, such as the electrolyte. To achieve this goal, several aspects need to be considered including material innovations, sustainable electrolyte and cell manufacturing, improved characterisation and understanding of the electrochemical processes. BioEESC has the ambitious and realistic goal to tackle these challenges and has formulated the following objectives (see project overview in Fig 1): • valorization of natural resources by the recovery of bioactive compounds and natural host-polymers utilizing renewable biomass feedstocks (codfish skin, wood, shrimp shells, chicken feathers, silkworm cocoon, and macroalgae) (TRL1) • develop new and sustainable chemical routes to produce a new generation of nanostructured eco-friendly materials: - synthesis of bio-ionic liquids as the foundational building blocks of polymerized ionic liquid block copolymers (PIL-BC) (TRL1) - novel eco-friendly and sustainable electrolytes exhibiting high proton and sodium conduction (TRL1); • improved integration of components for simple sodium coin cell format and fuel cell prototypes (TRL2-3) • analytical and experimental critical function/validation of the components in laboratory environment (TRL4-7). The evaluation of the environmental (LCA) and economic performance (TEA) of the electrolytes produced will be implemented throughout the project: • to identify hotspots and improvement opportunities. • to compare their performance with that of traditional electrolytes to ensure that they are sustainable. The integration of sodium solid-state batteries and PEMFCs in this research project stands at the forefront of green energy solutions. The synergy between these technologies represents a holistic strategy towards achieving sustainability goals, as they provide reliable and low-cost alternatives while minimizing reliance on scarce resources. In the medium and long term, BioEESC aims to promote bio-based industries in the North and Central regions of Portugal. This involves discussing successful strategies for developing the bio-based sector in regions with high bioeconomy potential. Additionally, the project focuses on engaging primary producers, exploring ways to enhance their involvement in the bio-based sector. Another objective is the development of skills for the bio-based sector by defining future skills and identifying existing gaps. The project also seeks to engage stakeholders interested in joining BioEESC in the future. Furthermore, BioEES aims to establish an unparalleled educational and training setting, empowering research professionals to pursue rewarding careers and attain global recognition. This initiative seeks to foster the integration of young individuals into the job market, particularly in fields associated with EESC technologies.