Synthesis of Graphene Aerogel Composite Materials to Address Key Challenges in Sustainable Energy

Abstract

This work presents an exploratory investigation into the synthesis and use of graphene aerogel-metal composite materials from an egg-white precursor for sustainable energy challenges. I successfully synthesized an Au-Graphene Aerogel composite and attempted to use it for Li+ filtration to improve battery recycling processes. I additionally attempted the synthesis of an Ni-GA composite material for use in electrocatalysis of the two half-reactions in water electrolysis. I found that without an adequate driving force, the Au-GA composite fails to filter Li+ Ions from solution. Based on apparatus and time constraints, I was also unable to fully synthesize an Ni-GA composite or attempt water electrolysis. Despite these setbacks, this research provides an interesting first step into the use of egg-white based graphene aerogels for electrocatalytic and targeted ion filtration applications.