Research lines

Integration of CO₂ mixtures with bio-based solvents as natural working fluids for wet compression refrigeration cycles with absorption. This line of research aims to address the problem that arises in the near future, as there is currently no clear alternative to current refrigeration fluids and systems that is safe, efficient and environmentally friendly. This will respond to challenges related to: (1) renewable energies, (2) minimization of the carbon footprint, (3) modernization of the economy, (4) development of sustainable vehicles in urban and rural mobility, (5) implementation of eco-efficient technologies, (6) decarbonization, and (7) zero consumption building.

1) Experimental study of associated mixtures. Fundamentally, of molecules containing the functional groups -O- and -OH: Mixtures of alcohols + ethers, and mixtures of hydroxyethers (mainly alkoxyethanols) with hydrocarbons, alcohols and ethers. Also, mixtures of molecules containing the functional groups -NH and -OH: mixtures of amines + alcohols, etc.

2) Experimental study of mixtures with pure dipolar interactions. Fundamentally, of molecules formed by the functional groups -O- and -CO-: Mixtures of ketones + ethers; alkyl carbonates + hydrocarbons, ethers and ketones, and mixtures of organic anhydrides with hydrocarbons. Also, mixtures of amides, nitriles, etc., with hydrocarbons, etc.

3) Experimental and theoretical study of mixtures whose excess heat capacity at constant pressure has a double minimum in its dependence on concentration (i.e., systems whose C_p^E is W-shaped).

4) Use of theories based on the Functional Group Contribution Method to characterize the thermodynamic properties of mixtures and alloys. Specifically, systematic application of the DISQUAC model to justify all types of mixtures and equilibria between phases, and comparison of its performance with UNIFAC models, etc.

5) Study of theories based on the random mixing hypothesis, such as the Flory model.

6) Use of association theories to justify the thermodynamic properties and phase equilibria of the associated mixtures. Systematic application of the ERAS model. Study of the Flory model with a view to improving the ERAS model.

7) Application of theories of concentration fluctuations to the study of orientational and structural effects in mixtures. In particular, the Kirkwood-Buff formalism following the Ben Naim method and the Bhatia-Thornton formalism.