Battery Applications Research Articles

Multi-objective Optimization of Fractional-Slot Surface-Mounted Permanent Magnet Motor for Flywheel Battery

Background: With the continuous development of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM) and the increasing demand for the application of flywheel battery, the requirements for PMSMs are also increasing. Methods: A multi-objective genetic algorithm is used to solve the optimal design solution Results: Multi-objective genetic algorithm is fast and accurate in calculation results, and it is easy to obtain the optimal solution. The results show that the cogging torque is reduced by 23.6%, the torque ripple is reduced by 25%, and the average torque is increased by 1.2%. Conclusion: A multi-objective optimization design was conducted on a surface-mounted PMSM. Firstly, the sensitivity of different optimization variables was calculated. The high-sensitivity parameters were selected as the final optimization variables. The response surface between the optimization variables and the optimization objectives was calculated. The genetic algorithm was used to solve the optimal design solution. The effectiveness of the optimization results was verified by the combination of finite element simulation and experimental tests.

Poly(p-Phenylene Benzobisoxazole) Nanofiber: A Promising Nanoscale Building Block Toward Extremely Harsh Conditions.

Since the invention and commercialization of poly(p-phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) fibers, numerous breakthroughs in applications have been realized both in the military and aerospace industries, attributed to its superb properties. Particularly, PBO nanofibers (PNFs) not only retain the high performance of PBO fiber but also exhibit impressive nanofeatures and desirable processability, which have been extensively applied in extreme scenarios. However, no review has yet comprehensively summarized the preparation, applications, and prospective challenges of PNFs to the best of our knowledge. Herein, the two fabrication pathways to acquire PNFs from bottom-up to top-down approaches are critically overviewed; the significant advantages and the problem caused simultaneously of the protonation approach compared with other methods are revealed. Besides, the construction strategies of multidimensional PNF-based advanced composites, including 1D fiber, 2D film/nanopaper, and 3D gel, are discussed. Moreover, the outstanding mechanical, insulating, and thermal stability properties of PNFs facilitate their extensive applications in thermal protection, electrical insulation, batteries, and flexible wearable devices, which are further comprehensively introduced. Finally, the perspective and challenges of the fabrication and application of PNFs are highlighted. It demonstrates that the PNFs as one of the promising high-performance nanoscale building blocks can be fully competent using extremely harsh conditions.

Empirical Optimization of Biomass-Derived Hard Carbon Anode for Efficient Sodium Storage

Hard carbon is widely recognized as the most promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Hard carbon is a non-graphitizable carbon characterized by a turbostratic structure with disordered stacking of carbon layers, each consisting of a few nanometer-sized graphene layers. It remains difficult to graphitize even at temperatures above 2500°C. This unique structure, combined with its low cost, high electrical conductivity, low working voltage, and high capacity, allows hard carbon to achieve exceptional sodium ion storage performance. These characteristics make it the most commercially viable anode material. Recent research has also actively explored the use of biomass instead of high-cost inorganic materials, to reduce production costs, minimize pollution from biomass incineration, and reduce the significant amounts of biological waste produced annually. This study investigates the performance of hard carbon anodes derived from lignin, with commercial graphite serving as a control. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) were utilized to analyze their crystallographic structures, microstructures, and surface elemental compositions. Electrochemical performance was evaluated using electrolytes consisting of 1M NaPF6 in EC/DEC (1:1 v/v) with 5 wt% FEC and 1M NaPF6 in DEGDME. By comparing the electrochemical characteristics of hard carbon and graphite under different electrolyte conditions, this study demonstrates the potential of hard carbon as a promising anode material for sodium-ion battery applications.

Electrolyte Decoupling Strategy for Metal Oxide-Based Zinc-Ion Batteries Free of Crosstalk Effect.

The crosstalk of transition metal ions between the metal oxide cathode and Zn anode restricts the practical applications of aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). Herein, we propose a decoupled electrolyte (DCE) consisting of a nonaqueous-phase (N-phase) anolyte and an aqueous-phase (A-phase) catholyte to prevent the crosstalk of Mn2+, thus extending the lifespan of MnO2-based ZIBs. Experimental measurements and theoretical modelling verify that trimethyl phosphate (TMP) not only synergistically works with NH4Cl in the N-phase anolyte to enable fast Zn2+ conduction while blocking Mn2+ diffusion toward anode, but also modifies the Zn2+ solvation structure to suppress the dendrite formation and corrosion on Zn anode. Meanwhile, the A-phase catholyte effectively accelerates the cathode reaction kinetics. The as-developed Zn|DCE|MnO2 cell delivers 80.13 % capacity retention after 900 cycles at 0.5 A g-1. This approach is applicable for other metal oxide cathode-based ZIBs, thereby opening a new avenue for developing ultrastable ZIBs.

A 3D four-fold interpenetrated conductive metal-organic framework for fast and robust sodium-ion storage.

Two-dimensional conductive metal-organic frameworks (2D c-MOFs) with high electrical conductivity and tunable structures hold significant promise for applications in metal-ion batteries. However, the construction of 3D interpenetrated c-MOFs for applications in metal-ion batteries is rarely reported. Herein, a 3D four-fold interpenetrated c-MOF (Cu-DBC) constructed by conjugated and contorted dibenzo[g,p]chrysene-2,3,6,7,10,11,14,15-octaol (DBC) ligands is explored as an advanced cathode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) for the first time. Notably, the expanded conjugated and four-fold interpenetrating structure endows Cu-DBC with transmission channels for electrons and sufficient spacing for sodium ion diffusion. As expected, the Cu-DBC cathode showcases higher specific capacity (120.6 mA h g-1, 0.05 A g-1) and robust cycling stability (18.1% capacity fade after 4000 cycles, 2 A g-1). Impressively, the Cu-DBC cathode also exhibits good electrochemical properties at extreme temperatures (-20 °C and 50 °C). A series of in/ex situ characterizations and systematic theoretical calculations further reveal the sodium-ion storage mechanism of Cu-DBC, highlighting a three-electron redox process on the redox-active [CuO4] units. This work provides valuable insights for exploring and enriching the applications of 3D interpenetrated c-MOFs in metal-ion batteries.

What is the potential of walnut shell-derived carbon in battery applications?

The environmental implications of utilizing walnut shells (WSs) as a material for energy storage are complex, balanced between advancing technologies and improving efficiency. This review aims to address, for the first time, environmental concerns and health effects associated with this material by conducting an in-depth analysis of carbon materials derived from waste management systems. Beginning with a reevaluation of the structural characteristics, cellular morphology, and physicochemical properties of WSs, this study explores their potential for the efficient synthesis of carbon. By examining various methods for the production of WS-derived materials such as hard carbon, we demonstrate the multifaceted nature of WS biomass as a resource. Subsequently, we shift our focus to ion storage mechanisms in the carbon source (C-S), including storage sensitivity, ion intercalation in micropores, and layer intercalation. An electrochemical analysis of the carbon source reveals its potential applications in energy storage systems. Furthermore, life cycle analysis was employed to assess the environmental impact and economic viability of WS utilization. The findings of the analysis suggest that one of the most valuable attributes of WSs is their potential for creating more environmentally sustainable materials, encouraging researchers to promote the use of green components in sodium batteries. This review underscores, for the first time, the significance of WSs in the field of carbon energy storage and their potential to enhance future prospects. The substantial opportunities in this area warrant further research and development, highlighting the relevance of WS-derived materials in advancing sustainable energy storage solutions.

Tailoring Electronic Structure of O3-Type Layered Oxide Cathode to Achieve Long-Cycle and High-Rate Sodium-Ion Batteries

Despite the great potential for practical application in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), the O3-type layered oxide cathode is still hindered by rapid capacity decay and poor cycle life, which is primarily...

Bilayer Mn-based Prussian blue cathode with high redox activity for boosting stable cycling in aqueous sodium-ion half/full batteries.

The Mn-based Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) have garnered significant attention due to their high specific capacity, stemming from the unique multi-electron reactions with Na+. However, the structural instability caused by multi-ion insertion impacts the cycle life, thus limiting their further application in aqueous sodium-ion batteries (ASIBs). To address this issue, this work employed an in situ epitaxial solvent deposition method to homogeneously grow Ni hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF) on the surface of MnPBA, which can effectively overcome the de-intercalation instability. The resulting heterostructured MnPBA@NiHCF integrates the multiple redox-active centers of MnPBA with the confinement ability of the outer NiHCF layer, thereby maintaining overall structural stability. As a cathode material for ASIBs, MnPBA@NiHCF achieves a reversible specific capacity of 66.2mAh/g after 200 cycles at 1A/g, significantly outperforming the single-component MnPBA and NiHCF, respectively. Moreover, it demonstrates ultralong cycling stability with only 0.0002% capacity fade per cycle over 20,000 cycles at 10A/g. Extensive kinetic analyses further confirm its superior Na+ diffusion behaviors with disclosed redox mechanism through the comprehensive in situ Raman and ex situ analysis. A full cell built with a polyimide (PI) anode achieved an energy density of up to 59.9Whkg-1, displaying a power output of 1200.4Wkg-1 and exceptional cycle stability. This work provides innovative insights for developing stable PBA cathodes for ASIB applications.

Ambient multivariate synthesis of ZIF-8 nanoparticles: Optimization and application in Li metal batteries

Ambient multivariate synthesis of ZIF-8 nanoparticles: Optimization and application in Li metal batteries

Targeted anchoring of Cu sites in imine-based covalent organic frameworks as catalytic centers for efficient Li-CO2 batteries.

Lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO2) batteries have attracted much attention due to their high theoretical energy density and reversible CO2 reduction/evolution process. However, the wide bandgap insulating discharge product Li2CO3 is difficult to decompose, leading to large polarization or even death of the battery, thus seriously hindering the practical application of Li-CO2 batteries. The properties of covalent organic framework (COF) materials, which can support the construction of multiphase catalytic systems, have great potential in the fields of CO2 enrichment and electrocatalytic reduction. In this paper, the excellent redox properties of transition metal were utilized to introduce Cu metal into an imine-based COF to form Cu-O,N sites as the active sites for CO2 oxidation and reduction. The electrochemical performance of the Cu sites in Li-CO2 batteries was investigated, and the prepared batteries were able to cycle stably at a current density of 200 mA g-1 for more than 1100 h. COF structural sites can be anchored by metal Cu sites to form Cu-O,N active centers for CO2 oxidation and reduction processes. This study provides a new approach for the development of lithium CO2 batteries towards more stable and stable.

Dopamine-modified separator anchoring polysulfides via electrostatic interaction for enhanced Lithium-sulfur batteries

Lithium‑sulfur (LiS) batteries possess high energy density and low cost, which have been considered as the most promising energy storage devices. However, the commercialization of LiS batteries has been impeded by the severe shuttling of soluble polysulfides during the charge-discharge cycling. In this work, we propose a novel strategy to modify polypropylene (PP) separator by grafting dopamine, a compound with phenolic hydroxyl and amino groups, to anchor polysulfides while maintaining the separator's porous structure for efficient lithium ion transport. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that dopamine polymer layer can effectively suppress polysulfides shuttling through electrostatic interaction with lithium atoms in polysulfides. Moreover, dopamine-modified separator enhances the electrolytes affinity and facilitates lithium ion transport. Cyclic voltammetry measurements, a high initial capacity of 1123 mAh·g−1 at 0.5C, lithium metal corrosion resistance, and the morphology of the cycled separators all confirm that dopamine-modified separator effectively mitigates the shuttle effect while maintaining the improved battery performance. This work opens up a new approach for the practical application of LiS batteries.

A phosphite derivative with stronger HF elimination ability as an additive for Li-rich based lithium-ion batteries at elevated temperatures

TMSPi, TMSPE, and TEP are comparatively evaluated as additives for high temperature application of a Li-rich lithium battery under high voltage and TMSPE shows the best electrochemical performance of the three phosphite-based additives.

Nano-confined Si@C composites with excellent lithium-ion storage performance derived from a POSS-based covalent framework and low-temperature reduction method.

Silicon-based anode materials experience significant volume changes and low conductivity during the lithiation process, which severely hinders their successful application in lithium-ion batteries. Reducing the size of silicon particles and effectively combining them with carbon-based materials are considered the main strategies to enhance the lithium-ion storage performance of silicon-based anodes. In this study, we employed a "bottom-up" strategy to synthesize Si@C anode materials by cross-linking octa-aminopropyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (NH2-POSS) with terephthalaldehyde and subsequent high-temperature treatment and low-temperature liquid reduction. The obtained nanospheres consist of ultra-thin silicon stripes embedded in a continuous carbon framework, forming a carbon-protected silicon-based anode material suitable for lithium-ion batteries. The Si@C nanospheres exhibit excellent lithium-ion storage performance. After 1000 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g-1, it retains an impressive capacity of 1363 mA h g-1, which is more than three times the theoretical capacity of graphite and 182% of the first cycle capacity after activation (750 mA h g-1). This work not only provides new possibilities for the application of POSS but also broadens the design and application of advanced silicon-based anode materials in the energy storage field.

Porous carbon nanosheets integrated with graphene-wrapped CoO and CoNx as efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for rechargeable zinc-air batteries.

The development of advanced bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER) is crucial for the practical application of zinc-air batteries (ZABs). Herein, porous carbon nanosheets integrated with abundant graphene-wrapped CoO and CoNx (CoO/CoNx-C) were successfully fabricated through a simple one-step pyrolysis. With convenient porous channel and large accessible surface, abundant CoO/CoNx species and graphene wrapping structure, CoO/CoNx-C exhibited a half-wave potential of 0.844V in ORR and an overpotential of 384mV (@10mA cm-2) in OER in the alkaline environment and presented a negative shift of 9mV in ORR after 8000 cycles and positive shift of 19mV in OER after 2000 cycles. Electrochemical acid-washing and comparison analysis revealed that the ORR activity mainly originated from CoO nanoparticles, while CoNx species were greatly responsible for OER catalysis. Furthermore, the as-prepared CoO/CoNx-C endowed the rechargeable liquid and solid ZABs with superior power density (161 mW cm-2 for liquid ZABs and 137 mW cm-2 for solid ZABs) and long-term stability (stable in 1000h charge/discharge tests) compared to commercial catalysts. This work provides a feasible strategy for cobalt/carbon hybrid materials as advanced bifunctional electrocatalysts for ZABs.

A 3D mixed ion-electron conducting framework for dendrite-free lithium metal anodes.

To enable the practical application of lithium metal batteries, it is crucial to address the challenges of dendrite growth and volume expansion in lithium metal anodes. A 3D framework offers an effective solution to regulate the lithium plating/stripping process. In this work, we present a 3D mixed ion-electron conducting (MIEC) framework as a lithium metal anode, achieved by conformally coating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) onto Li0.5La0.5TiO3 (LLTO) particles. The synergy between LLTO's lithiophilicity and CNTs' high electron conductivity ensures uniform lithium deposition and mitigates volume changes, thereby enhancing the electrochemical performance. As a result, the LLTO@CNT anode demonstrates a high coulombic efficiency of 99.24% for 400 cycles at 1 mA cm-2 in a half-cell, along with excellent cycling stability and prolonged lifespan.

Research progress of SiOx anode materials modification strategy and its industrial application in lithium ion batteries

Research progress of SiOx anode materials modification strategy and its industrial application in lithium ion batteries

Highly stable and conformal Ti-organic thin films from sustainable precursors via atomic/molecular layer deposition towards green energy applications.

Thin-film deposition using sustainable precursors is required for various next-generation green energy applications. Here we report two atomic/molecular layer deposition processes for appreciably stable and conformal Ti-organic thin films and TiO2:organic superlattices with potential in e.g. battery, photocatalysis and thermoelectric applications. These processes are based on the safe and sustainable titanium isopropoxide as the titanium precursor.

Quantification of vehicular versus uncorrelated Li+-solvent transport in highly concentrated electrolytes via solvent-related Onsager coefficients.

Highly concentrated salt solutions are promising electrolytes for battery applications due to their low flammability, their high thermal stability, and their good compatibility with electrode materials. Understanding transport processes in highly concentrated electrolytes is a challenging task, since strong ion-ion and ion-solvent interactions lead to highly correlated movements on the microscopic scale. Here, we use an experimental overdetermination method to obtain accurate Onsager transport coefficients for concentrated binary electrolytes composed of either sulfolane (SL) or dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as solvent and either LiTFSI or LiFSI as salt. NMR-based electrophoretic mobilities demonstrate that volume conservation applies as a governing constraint for the transport. This fact allows to calculate the Onsager coefficients σ+0, σ-0 and σ00 related to the solvent. A parameter γ is then defined, which is a measure for the relevance of a vehicular Li+-solvent transport mechanism. We analyze the influence of the salt anion and of the solvent on dynamic correlations and transport mechanisms. In the case of the sulfolane-based electrolytes, the γ parameter reaches values up to 0.38, indicating that Li+-sulfolane interactions are stronger than Li+-anion interactions and that vehicular Li+-sulfolane transport plays a significant role. In the case of DMC-based electrolytes, the γ parameter is close to zero, suggesting balanced Li+-DMC vs. Li+-anion interactions and virtually uncorrelated movements of Li+ ions and DMC molecules.

Revisiting the Critical Role of Metallic Ash Elements in the Development of Hard Carbon for Advancing Sodium-Ion Battery Applications

Revisiting the Critical Role of Metallic Ash Elements in the Development of Hard Carbon for Advancing Sodium-Ion Battery Applications

In situ gel pyrolysis-derived efficient self-supporting foldable electrodes for zinc-air batteries.

A scalable synthesis method for foldable carbon nanotube-coated cobalt particle electrodes on carbon cloth was established through metal-organic framework gel pyrolysis. These electrodes exhibit excellent bifunctional catalytic activity and enhanced durability, making them highly promising for commercial zinc-air battery applications.