The aim is to store energy in individual microgels that are based on core-shell structures and have different electroactive groups in the various microgel domains. The core and shell consist of thermoresponsive polymers that collapse when the temperature rises and swell when the temperature falls below the transition temperature. It is assumed that the charge exchange in the collapsed state is restricted due to the limited network dynamics, while in the swollen state the energy release is more favourable. The release of energy could thus be controlled by selectively varying the temperature. The energy release is initially measured in the form of heat.

In a first step, the same electroactive groups as in the microgels are embedded in polymers with different architectures. The heat release during electron exchange between two oppositely charged electroactive groups is measured using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC).