Soutenance publique de thèse de doctorat en Sciences chimiques - Younes BOURENANE CHERIF

Elaboration of composite materials based on conducting polymers and their application in energy conversion: thermoelectricity

Jury

• Prof. Guillaume BERIONNI (UNamur), président
• Prof. Zineb MEKHALIF (UNamur), secrétaire
• Prof. Catherine MICHAUX (UNamur)
• Prof. Noureddine NASRALLAH (Université des Sciences et Technologies - Houari Boumediene)
• Prof. Nacira NAAR (Université des Sciences et Technologies - Houari Boumediene)

Résumé

 

The increasing in global energy demand and environmental concerns related to traditional energy sources necessitate the exploration of sustainable alternatives. This thesis investigates the potential of thermoelectric (TE) energy conversion using conducting polymer-based composites. Traditional TE materials, while efficient, face challenges such as toxicity and limited availability. Conducting polymers offer a promising solution due to their flexibility, processability, and tunable properties. By forming composites with materials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene, their TE performance can be significantly enhanced. Surface treatment and functionalization are crucial for optimizing these composites and improving their efficiency.

The thesis reviews the principles of thermoelectricity, including the Seebeck and Peltier effects, and the limitations of traditional TE materials, setting the stage for investigating conducting polymers as alternatives.

The research methodology involves synthesizing and characterizing conducting polymer-based composites, focusing on surface treatment and functionalization techniques to enhance TE performance. Various composites incorporating graphene, CNTs, and metal oxide nanoparticles (bismuth oxide or nickel oxide) are synthesized and evaluated for their TE properties. The influence of surface modifications on composite morphology, charge transport, and TE parameters is systematically studied.

The findings reveal significant improvements in TE efficiency through surface treatment and composite formation. Functionalization of graphene and CNTs enhances their compatibility with polymer matrices, improving dispersion and interfacial bonding, leading to higher electrical conductivity, reduced thermal conductivity, and ultimately, greater TE efficiency. Incorporating metal oxide nanoparticles further enhances the power factor, demonstrating the potential of hybrid composites in TE applications.

 

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