Energy conversion based on bio-inspired superwetting interfaces
File(s)Matter-perspective-final.docx (5.29 MB)
Accepted version
Author(s)
Li, Ming
Li, Chang
Blackman, Bamber RK
Saiz, Eduardo
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Bio-inspired superwetting interfaces can realize rapid transfer of liquid mass or momentum due to their unique surface structure and wetting characteristics. Combined with a suitably electrified material, these special interfaces can further promote the generation or transmission of electrons. Herein, we summarize the latest developments in water-energy collection technologies based on these interfaces, such as piezoelectric/triboelectric/pyroelectric nanogenerators. When it comes to harvesting energy generated by salinity gradients, reverse electrodialysis based on ion channels is now being widely investigated. We review the concept of “quantum-confined superfluids” on superwetting interfaces, and the conditions required to form a superfluid in molecular and ion channels. The applications of the superfluids in energy conversion are discussed, including the charging and discharging process of lithium batteries and harvesting salinity-gradient energy. This perspective identifies advantages, current challenges, and future directions in the development of energy-conversion devices using superwetting interfaces that could open the door to their broader application.
Date Issued
2021-11
Date Acceptance
2021-09-15
Citation
Matter, 2021, 4 (11), pp.3400-3414
ISSN
2590-2385
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Start Page
3400
End Page
3414
Journal / Book Title
Matter
Volume
4
Issue
11
Copyright Statement
© 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. This manuscript is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Licence http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Sponsor
Engineering & Physical Science Research Council (E
Identifier
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S259023852100463X?via%3Dihub
Grant Number
146280 MAPP - EP/P006566/1
Subjects
Science & Technology
Technology
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Materials Science
ION INTERCALATION
PERFORMANCE
WATER
CONDENSATION
TRANSPORT
MEMBRANES
SURFACES
CATHODE
Publication Status
Published
Date Publish Online
2021-11-03