An Inorganic Approach to Molecular Solar Thermal Energy Storage

Our Mitacs application is part of a collaborative program of study to develop the chemistry of molecular solar-thermal energy storage (MOST) materials. For the project, we aim to establish Cu(I) ions as components of MOST materials. The Lescop group (France) has longstanding expertise developing inorganic materials based on Cu(I) wherein the metal ions direct electron rich surfaces to participate in face-to-face stacking in the solid state. The MacGillivray group (Canada) has longstanding experience to direct molecules to undergo [2+2] photodimerizations in the solid state. While many organic systems are recognized as promising for MOST applications, there have been no reports using principles of inorganic chemistry based on Cu(I) to be developed into MOST materials. Cu(I)-based molecular materials are characterized by a variety of radiative relaxation pathways that include phosphorescence. Phosphorescent materials based on Cu(I) can be expected to enhance MOST systems by improving energy retention and release dynamics. The flexible coordination environment of Cu(I) can also allow MOST materials to undergo rare single-crystal-to-single (SCSC) reactions. In these transformations, the integrities (e.g. size, morphology) of crystals are preserved and, therefore, attractive for development of device applications.

Faculty Supervisor:

Leonard MacGillivray

Student:

Partner:

Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Clean Technology; Green/Alternative Energy

University:

Université de Sherbrooke

Program: