Research
Polymers for Energy Storage and Conversion: From nanoscale properties to macroscale performance
The vision of the Paren lab is to develop safe, high-performing polymer electrolytes for electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems, which are critical for the transition to an all-renewable energy grid. Our lab uses an understanding of nanoscale properties to inform rational design of polymer electrolytes for use in electrochemically-active assemblies. Our interdisciplinary team will focus on characterizing and developing polymer electrolytes for technologies that utilize resource-abundant or low-cost materials, such as Na and Mg-based batteries, and anion exchange membrane fuel cells. Common experimental techniques used by our group include X-ray scattering (structural characterization), dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (polymer and ion dynamics), and electrochemical testing. We are always open to considering collaboration (experimental and computational) on both related and unrelated topics, particularly if the research fall under the umbrella of polymer structure and dynamics or materials for energy. Please contact Prof. Paren at bparen@stevens.edu if you would like to learn more about our research or are interested in working together.
Current Research Areas:
Single-ion conducting (SIC) blend and gel polymer electrolytes
Gel and blend single-ion conducting polymer electrolytes (SICs) are a promising solution to polymer electrolytes with low ionic conductivity, σ, by leveraging the ion transport of a mobile liquid or polymer phase with the safety and stability of the SIC. In gel and blend SICs there is still a need for a fundamental understanding of how nanoscale properties connect to electrochemical performance. The growing cost and limited supply of Li also necessitates the development of alternatives such as Na and K-based batteries. In this research area, we are aiming to develop and characterize new blend and gel SICs, and correlate local structure and dynamics with cell performance, in order to establish design rules for the next generation of electrolytes.
Proton and anion exchange membranes (PEM and AEM) for fuel cells and electrolyzers
Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) and electrolyzers (AEMWEs) have recently attracted interest because of their potential of low cost, non-fluorinated membranes, and ability to utilize non-precious metal catalysts, in contrast to proton exchange membranes (PEM). While PEMFCs still require precious metal catalysts, hydrocarbon based PEMs still offer promise of lower cost membranes. We are investigating new relationships between transport mechanisms and nanostructure in hydrocarbon-based PEMs and AEMs and evaluating their performance under different operating conditions. This includes in situ structural and dynamics characterization, in addition to electrochemical testing in lab-scale devices.
