FURI | Fall 2018

Developments of Low-Temperature Ionic Liquid-Molecular Solvent Electrolyte Systems for a MET Seismometer

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The project aims to develop a low-temperature electrolyte and involves investigations on effects of acetonitrile, propylene carbonate, and gamma-butyrolactone as cosolvents in imidazolium-based ionic liquid systems. The first phase of the project will be optimizing the physicochemical properties of the solutions. Differential scanning calorimetry and rheometer are employed to the solutions to evaluate their thermal behaviors and viscosity, respectively. Next, the electrochemical properties of the systems will be characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Developed formulations should work as advanced electrolyte systems for other electrochemical applications at low temperatures, with conducted research as references for solution behaviors.

Student researcher

Shaun MacDonald

Chemical engineering

Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona

Graduation date: Spring 2020