Energy

Using friction experiments at PETRA IV, researchers can analyse how fine dust particles are released from a car tyre in contact with the road surface and how they disperse into the environment. Innovative materials could reduce the emission of nanoparticles from this abrasion in the future and thus lessen the potential danger from fine dust.

The finest abrasion, which is inhaled and enters the body as fine dust, is harmful to health. But abrasion causes even more damage: In industry, machines wear out due to abrasion, resulting in high maintenance costs. For the sake of people and the environment, researchers worldwide are therefore developing high-tech materials that are better protected against wear. To study these in detail, PETRA IV will provide sharp images of the friction process.

The high image contrast will make the abrasion visible during its formation. This is not possible with conventional imaging.

The X-rays from PETRA IV will reveal how the nanostructures inside batteries change while they are in operation. For example, tiny metallic deposits form on the electrodes over time. These dendrites can grow and lead to defects. At PETRA IV, such details can be studied and used to develop functional materials for better batteries.

Solar cells and nanomaterials

Tailor-made materials can not only serve as a possible wear-free machine base, they can also be important building blocks for the energy transition or environmental protection. Findings from research with X-rays help to develop artificial leaves or nanosponges – for example, ultrathin solar cells and electricity-producing layers.