Electrochemistry

The presented work on the synthesis and functionalization of mesoporous carbon, as well as the preparation of anodic catalysts for direct ethanol fuel cells, has an essential connection with the principles of green chemistry. The synthesis of mesoporous carbon from a resorcinol-formaldehyde resin represents a sustainable approach, as it enables the design of materials with specific properties through controlled processes that maximize the use of available resources.

Addressing the growing energy demand in a sustainable manner is one of the most pressing global challenges today. Achieving this requires optimizing the efficiency of energy storage and conversion systems while aligning with green chemistry principles to minimize environmental impact. In this context, this work explores both theoretically and experimentally how the structure of porous carbon materials, synthesized from renewable or low-impact precursors, and used as electrodes in metal-air batteries (e.g., Na-air, Li-air), affects the physicochemical properties of confined electrolytes.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in textile production and, consequently, in the generation of waste. In Brazil alone, approximately 175,000 tons of this type of waste are generated, of which only 36,000 tons are reused. In this context, this work aimed to use textile waste as a base for conversion into conductive materials, adding value to a discarded material.

The widespread use of synthetic dyes has led to the release of substantial amounts of dye-contaminated wastewater, posing significant environmental and health concerns. This study focuses on the use of anodic and electrochemically activated persulfate oxidation for the degradation of organic contaminants. Specifically, the structural variations of nine dyes in the indigoid and azo families, and their impact on the efficiency of electrochemical oxidation were analyzed. An in situ continuous monitoring apparatus with a UV-visible detector was employed to collect data in real-time.

The innovation in this study lies in enhancing conventional sensors through the integration of advanced materials such as graphene and its derivatives. These materials, derived from carbon, a widely abundant, renewable, and sustainable element, exhibit exceptional properties, including high molecular adsorption capacity, superior electrical conductivity, and remarkable mechanical strength. Their multifunctionality not only enhances sensor performance but also promotes material efficiency by significantly reducing the resources required for production.

CO2 electrolyzers have gained significant attention as a viable technology to convert CO2 to multi-carbon products, thus helping mitigate carbon emissions and promote carbon circularity.  To be competitive with current chemicals manufacturing, the selectivity of multi-carbon products and the process energy efficiency in CO2 electrolyzers needs yet to be improved. This work aims to address these challenges and make this reaction more sustainable by enhancing ethylene selectivity and improving reactor energy efficiency.