Cost-Effective Materials for The Energy Transition: From Water Splitting Catalysts to Carbon Dioxide Adsorbents

The most plausible solution to satisfy the world’s energy demand following an environmentally friendly approach is the use of renewable energies, such as the energy from the sun, solar energy, or the energy from the fermentation of organic matter under anaerobic conditions, biomass.

On the one hand, the aim is the replacement of fossil fuels by carbon-free solar fuels, i.e., energy-rich chemicals formed with the help of sunlight. Artificial photosynthesis is implemented for this purpose. This work develops the study of working anodes based on Earth abundant metals for the electrocatalytic water oxidation reaction in alkaline media. Firstly, the effect of doping on the electrocatalytic properties of hematite anodes with redox vs. non-redox active species (Ni and Zn). Secondly, the catalytic performance of two series of spinel ferrite anodes: Ni_1–xZn_xFe₂O_n and (Ni_1–xZn_x)₂FeO_n, analysing the effect of their controlled stoichiometry.

On the other hand, biogas, could be another promising renewable energy due to the environmental benefit of using bio-methane as a substitute for fossil fuels. This work will develop and implement a carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technology based on our patented Metal-Organic Framework, TAMOF-1, as an adsorbent material for the separation by physisorption adsorption processes of carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen mixtures, and light hydrocarbons.

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According to the last information received from ICIQ’s safety department about the measures to prevent and contain COVID-19 at ICIQ, a total of 50 people is now the maximum capacity allowed in the Auditorium, so the Thesis Defense will be finally held in the Auditorium as well as through ZOOM platform too.

For those who prefer to follow the ceremony in a virtual format, please remember that you should register here.

If you are interested in attending in the Auditorium, please, fill in this registration form to be sure that we do not exceed the maximum capacity. (It will be assigned on a first-come/first served basis). We will confirm your acceptance through an e-mail as soon as possible after your registration.