M Tech EST-2021-SEM II

The students are introduced into basic principles of functioning of devices for electrochemical conversion and storage. They are acquainted with physical-chemical mechanisms that are exploited by such devices during their operation. They learn about the relationship between the structure, morphology, composition and functionality of materials constituting such devices. They are acquainted with additional effects occurring upon integration of active materials into electrode composites. They are introduced into techniques for investigation of individual components (active material, additives, supports) and interaction between these components. They get acquainted with the most important existing problems and drawbacks found in the novel energy devices and measures for their further improvements. Finally, they learn about wider aspects concerning the introduction of novel devices (impact on environment and sustainable development, safety aspects, price-performance, development of relevant infrastructure etc.

This course is intended as a review of the challenges facing materials scientists working in renewable energy and sustainability science and technology. It aims to give the student a birds-eye view of the current topics in energy harvesting and storage materials. The potential of various energy harvesting approaches will be discussed in the context of energy needs facing the world. This will be done with particular focus on materials innovations required to improve the state of the art. After this thorough introduction, the course will discuss solar power and electrochemical energy storage in more depth.