Mixed-Phase Perovskite Materials for H2 Generation and Hybrid Charge Storage

Perovskite (ABO₃) materials have applications both in fuel production and energy storage. Although mixed metal oxide-based systems have been thoroughly investigated, the information available on the use of perovskite for H₂ generation is extremely meagre. In this study, Mn and Ti- based perovskite materials (as mixed phase) were synthesized using surfactant templating assisted sol-gel technique, which were analyzed using powder x-ray diffraction, BET, SEM/EDX, and utilized for thermochemical water-splitting process for H₂ generation. This material was loaded inside Inconel reactor and multiple thermochemical cycles were performed. H₂ generation was continuously monitored using online H₂ sensor and GC. As calcined perovskite materials in the form of mixed phase were utilized to fabricate supercapacitors, which were characterized for their gravimetric capacitance. In addition, supercapacitors were also fabricated using carbon electrode made from the HTL derived biochar. The cyclic voltammetry curves obtained at 5 V and 2 A were used to determine the specific capacitance and compared with commercial supercapacitors.