Nanofluid Based on Carbon Dots Functionalized with Ionic Liquids for Energy Applications

The development of materials that can help overcome the current limitations in energy storage and consumption is a pressing need. Recently, we developed non-Newtonian nanofluids based on non-toxic, carbon nanoparticles (NPs), carbon dots (Cdots) functionalized with ionic liquids. Here, we wanted to prove that these new nanofluids are, not only interesting as possible electrolytes, but also as new organic/inorganic hybrid separators. As such, we developed an entrapment method using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Indeed, the highly conductive Cdots were successfully retained inside the membrane even upon the application of several wetting/drying cycles. Moreover, the morphological characteristics did not change upon wetting/drying cycles and remained constant for more than four months. These nanofluids could be an interesting approach to tackle some of the current problems in the fields of solid-state batteries, and energy storage, among others.