Preface
-
Published:20 Dec 2024
-
Special Collection: 2024 eBook Collection
Transition Metal-based Nanofoams for Electrochemical Systems
Download citation file:
Metal nanoforms are an extraordinary class of inorganic materials with a variety of different chemical compositions that combine the intrinsic physical and mechanical properties of metals with a highly porous nanoarchitecture. As a result, they have a seemingly never-ending set of possible applications. This book covers different aspects regarding metal foams, namely, the synthetic and functionalization methodologies, types of metal foams, the most important characterization techniques and their application in electrochemical systems.
In Chapter 1, the most promising energy and conversion devices are introduced along with the current state-of-the-art materials. Metal foams are also introduced as emerging candidates for these energy devices. In Chapter 2, several preparation routes for metal foams are presented; in particular, templating synthesis, dealloying, electrodeposition, compaction/sintering by combustion, and industrial methods and their key features are discussed. In Chapter 3, the strategies for the functionalization of metal foams to create novel electrode architectures – exploring the advantages of the unique 3D properties of these structures – are summarized. In Chapter 4, a comprehensive review of the key properties of 3D metal foams is provided, including surface area, porosity, roughness, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity and mechanical stability. A brief description of the techniques used to characterize them is also presented. In Chapter 5, the electrochemical behaviour of metal foam-based electrodes for supercapacitor applications and their most important features are described and analysed. In Chapter 6, an overview of the most recent trends in the application of metallic foams in the development of electrodes for modern batteries is provided. The latest advances are discussed, and their advantages highlighted. In Chapter 7, an overview of the recent progress in metal-based foams for energy-related reactions such as the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is provided. The current challenges and future perspectives to further advance the rational design of high-performance transition metal-based foam electrocatalysts are also discussed. In Chapter 8, the current challenges of metal foams, namely, regarding the manufacturing, characterization, and application are summarized and the future directions discussed.
Maria de Fátima Montemor
Diana M. Fernandes
Alberto Adan-Mas
Ana Catarina Alves
Gabriel Garcia Carvalho
Inês S. Marques