Nano-engineered Smart Material Characterization and Optimization Equipment for Efficient, Cost-effective and Sustainable Energy Conversion and Storage Technologies

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Reliable, affordable, and environmentally friendly energy conversion and storage technologies are essential forkeeping pace with the ever-growing need for energy in Canada and elsewhere. Electrochemical power sourcessuch as rechargeable batteries, ultra-capacitors, and fuel cells have been identified as critical enablingtechnologies for advanced, cost-effective and efficient energy conversion and storage.Nano-engineered materials exhibit specific properties that are unique to this class of materials and are based onsurface and quantum effects. One of the first and foremost important steps in synthesis and optimization ofsuch materials is to understand and control how they interact with their immediate environment at themolecular level. Novel, nano-structured electrodes and membranes for use in rechargeable batteries,electrochemical capacitors, bio-reactors and bio-fuel cells will not only enhance their performance and extendtheir useful lifetime, but also will lower their manufacturing and operating costs.The requested laboratory equipment aims to enhanceLambton College's Advanced Nano Engineered MaterialsLaboratory capacity to meet the needs of local and regional SMEs by initiating and conducting highlycollaborative industry-driven applied research projects. The equipment to be purchased with the requestedfunding includes a complete electrochemical test station and an (industrially-oriented surface analyzer withchemisorption capability) to synthesize, characterize, and optimize smart nano-engineered materials for a widerange of industrial applications, including viable energy conversion and storage technologies and devices forthe smart grid and transportation sector. The requested equipment will be initially utilized by nine (9) local andregional companies and will be used by Lambton College researchers through the Lambton Energy ResearchCentre, Centre for Industrial Material Development and Bluewater Technology Access Centre.