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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

viologen oxidation properties, low cost energy sources, fossil fuels

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Chemical Engineering

Abstract

The world always stands in need of a more efficient and low cost energy sources. Fuel cells present an environmentally friendly source of energy that could potentially replace the current fossil fuels that are now used. In addition fuel cells are normally light weight and have the ability to work in isolated regions where power is not easily accessible. Fuel cells have shown great potential but as of yet are not an economically favorable energy source due to high cost. One of the main reasons for this is the high cost of platinum which is commonly used as a catalyst. In recent studies, however, low cost organic catalysts (Viologens) have been discovered to produce a higher conversion rate. By determining which derivatives of these organic catalysts have the greatest conversion, we can then optimize the amount of catalyst needed in each fuel cell. This will then lower costs in possible future production, allowing fuel cells to become a more viable energy source.

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