Conductive Regenerated Cellulose Fibers for Multi-Functional Composites: Mechanical and Structural Investigation.

Regenerated cellulose fibers coated with copper via electroless plating process are investigated for their mechanical properties, molecular structure changes, and suitability for use in sensing applications. Mechanical properties are evaluated in terms of tensile stiffness and strength of fiber tows before, during and after the plating process. The effect of the treatment on the molecular structure of fibers is investigated by measuring their thermal stability with differential scanning calorimetry and obtaining Raman spectra of fibers at different stages of the treatment.

Accelerated Stress Test Method for the Assessment of Membrane Lifetime in Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries.

An accelerated stress test (AST) method was developed to estimate the lifetime of ion-exchange membranes in a vanadium redox flow battery. The oxidative VO ions present in the charged positive electrolyte are the predominant stressor causing loss of functional groups and membrane conductivity. Membrane aging was accelerated in ex situ tests by exploiting elevated temperatures and the increased oxidative strength of Ce.