From energy storage to electrochemical synthesis – Electrochemical Research at BASF

Energy Futures Lab is delighted to be hosting Dr. Sigmar Bräuninger, Senior Research Manager Electrochemical Processes and Energy from BASF SE

Abstract

BASF has a broad portfolio of electrochemical techniques covering materials synthesis and characterization for lithium ion batteries, electroanalytical tools, electrochemical separation technologies, electroplating and electrosynthesis of organic compounds. One part of our research is associated with the transition to an energy system which is based on renewables.

Grid scale electricity storage is expected to become a billion Euro market in the future which requires reliable, safe and cost-efficient solutions. We develop a new type of sodium-sulfur battery that can meet these requirements and we investigate new types of efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction for PEM water electrolysis. Another pillar of our research group is electrochemical synthesis.

Anodic substitution is an important electrochemical process at BASF that has been transferred to production scale already in the 1980s. Based on this process BASF produces fragrances as well as fungicides and UV-B absorbers.

Even though the process has been optimized in the past we have been able to broaden the scope of accessible compounds by applying different combinations of electrodes and electrolytes. The presentation will give an insight into our current research projects.

Venue

The seminar will be held in room 408 in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (building 16 on the campus map). The simplest route is to enter the campus from Exhibition Road via the main entrance (by building 36 on the map) and continue through the lobby out to Dalby Court. The Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering is straight in front of you and the room in on the 4th floor.