Energy Storage Capability Research Articles

Morphotropic phase boundary evolution with synergistic effect of sintering temperature to improve electrocaloric and energy storage performances of lead-free Ba0.95Ca0.05Sn0.09Ti0.91O3 (BCST) ceramic

The designing of lead-free ferroelectric ceramics for application in environment-friendly efficient electrocaloric cooling and energy storage devices is still challenging and need to be considered. A major challenge, however, is how to simultaneously achieve higher polarization and low hysteresis loss at low applied electric field. In this perspective, we comprehensively investigated sol-gel derived Ba0.95Ca0.05Sn0.09Ti0.91O3 (BCST) ceramics by varying the sintering temperature to explore its electrocaloric and energy storage capabilities. The excellent ∆T ∼ 1.03 K, ∆S ∼ 1.32 J/kg.K and high electrocaloric responsivity ΔT/ΔE ∼ 0.34 K.mm/kV at very low applied electric field of 30 kV/cm are obtained for pristine BCST sample sintered at 1400 °C. Additionally, we observed Wrec ∼ 136.18 mJ/cm3 and giant energy conversion efficiency η ∼ 94.29 % under very low applied electric field of 30 kV/cm for the same BCST sample. Our results reveal that control of sintering temperature contributes to a favorable and stable microstructure, including R-O-T phase coexistence and substitutional heterogeneity-induced nano-polar regions (PNRs) which strengthens the Polarization and supports the thin hysteresis loop. Thus all these factors simultaneously contributing to make BCST ceramic as a potential material for applications in advanced electrocaloric cooling and energy storage capacitors.

Novel design of Sn4P3@NxC electrodes and their electrochemical properties

Tin phosphide (SnxPy) is recognized as one of the most promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to its exceptionally high theoretical capacity. However, its application is hampered by significant volume expansion during charge-discharge cycles and inferior electrical conductivity. Proper structural design plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges, paving the way for high-performance anode materials. This study introduces a nitrogen-doped carbon-coated Sn4P3 nanosphere with a core-shell structure, employing dopamine as the nitrogen source. This innovative approach, utilizing template removal and solid-phase phosphorization, results in both the core and shell acting as active materials, thereby enhancing the volumetric energy density of the electrode. The internal voids within the shell layer mitigate volume expansion during charge-discharge cycles, while the presence of the nitrogen-doped carbon layer maintains the material's stability throughout cycling and improves its electrical conductivity. Electrochemical performance tests confirm this material's outstanding energy storage capability, with an initial Coulombic efficiency reaching up to 73.6 %. Furthermore, it maintains a stable capacity of 585 mAh g−1 after 1200 cycles at a current density of 2 A g−1. This research offers a design paradigm for developing novel energy storage materials.

Evaluating the energy storage performance of polymer blends by phase-field simulation

Polymer blends are regarded as a straightforward and effective method to enhance the energy storage performance of dielectric film capacitors. However, how the components and structures within the blend systems affect the energy density and efficiency remains insufficiently explored in-depth. In this discourse, employing a polymer blend of ferroelectric and linear dielectric phases as a paradigm, we perform phase-field simulations to elucidate the effects of ferroelectric phase volume fractions, geometrical dimensions, and the dielectric constant of the linear phase on the energy storage capabilities. Concurrently, we have devised six divergent blending microstructures to probe the ramifications of structural variances on the overarching performance metrics. We also analyze the domain configurations and switching dynamics under varying electric fields to understand the performance variations and delineate the determinants conducive to superior energy density and efficiency. This paper theoretically establishes the component–content–structure–performance relationships of different polymer blend systems, which is expected to better guide the innovative design of new polymer blend dielectrics.

Synergistic effects of haematite/hausmannite anchored graphene hybrids in high-energy density asymmetric supercapacitors

Addressing the critical demand for advanced energy storage systems (ESSs) amid escalating global energy needs and population growth, this study pioneers the synthesis of graphene-supported haematite and hausmannite (Gr@Mn3O4@Fe2O3/NF) ternary composite cathodes. These cathodes are tailored for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs), leveraging an economically viable process of fabrication. This innovation represents a significant leap forward, employing cost-effective techniques without compromising efficiency. Synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analysis reveals a distinct blend of Fe and Mn valences, confirming the composite's unique structure. Electrochemical assessment underscores the superior capability of the electrodes, registering an unprecedented specific capacitance of ∼854 F/g in aqueous electrolytes, far surpassing traditional electrodes. Additionally, the composite electrodes maintain ∼70 % capacitance retention and about ∼94 % coulombic efficiency under a high current density of 4 A/g. In an ASC configuration, pairing the Gr@Mn3O4@Fe2O3/NF cathode with an anode made of AC, the ASC achieves the highest capacitance of ∼139 F/g, an energy density of ∼156.3 Wh/kg at a power density of ∼1439 W/kg, coupled with outstanding cyclability in a 1.5 V. This research delineates a scalable pathway for fabricating cost-efficient, high-energy density SCs, heralding a new era of portable electronic devices with enhanced energy storage capabilities.

Optimizing Electrodeposition of Polyaniline on Various Woven Steel Mesh Sizes for Enhanced Supercapacitor Performance.

The development of efficient supercapacitors hinges on the innovation of superior electrodes, which are pivotal in augmenting their energy storage capabilities. Supercapacitors, recognized for their high-power density and extended cycle life, play a crucial role as sustainable solutions in addressing energy storage challenges. A fundamental aspect of supercapacitor functionality involves the electrode material, which works in concert with other key components such as the current collector, separator, and electrolyte. This study focuses on evaluating the impact of the current collector material on the performance of symmetric supercapacitors. We investigated the electropolymerization of polyaniline on woven steel mesh current collectors of varying mesh sizes, ranging from 20 to 200 mesh per inch, using assorted deposition conditions. The electrochemically modified woven steel meshes were utilized to construct symmetric supercapacitors. The electrochemical performance of the assembled supercapacitors, configured in a two-electrode system, was investigated using a variety of electrochemical techniques to better understand the kinetics of electrolyte ion migration. Notably, the 20-mesh size, characterized by the fewest pores per inch, demonstrated superior performance with an optimum capacitance of 4730 mF/cm2, an energy density of 317.8 μWh/cm2, and a power density of 400 μW/cm2 at a current density of 1 mA/cm2.

Sustainable Modification of Naturally Available Resources for Metal-Ion Storage Applications

The adoption of naturally abundant resources for energy storage applications represents a pivotal strategy in advancing large-scale sustainable green energy solutions across diverse sectors. This presentation provides an overview of E2MC's approaches to the green modification of naturally occurring materials at a low cost, focusing on their metal-ion energy storage capabilities. Key natural materials discussed include molybdenum disulfides (MoS2), ilmenite and natural graphite minerals, as well as corn waste. (a) The thermal oxidation of MoS2 is explored as a straightforward and effective method to produce layer-structured molybdenum trioxide (α-MoO3) with crystalline defects, showing enhanced Li-ion storage kinetics. The molten salt treatment of MoS2 produces sodium dimolybdate with improved Li-ion and Na-ion storage performances. Additionally, a hybrid nanostructure comprising metastable monoclinic molybdenum trioxide (β-MoO3), hexagonal MoS2 secondary crystals and graphene nanosheets is produced through mechanochemical-molten salt treatment. This hybrid structure exhibits an interesting Li-ion storage performance. (b) Carbonization of largely available corn lignocellulosic waste in the presence of molten salt is discussed as a facile approach for the preparation of biocarbons with appropriate specific surface area, pore volume, and elemental carbon purity. The partial dissolution of biomass impurities into the molten salt enhances the Li-ion and Na-ion storage performance of the biocarbon. Additionally, the treatment of corn-derived silica with Fe2O3 and graphite-derived graphene nanosheets, leads to the preparation of a nanostructure in which ferric oxide particles are coated with iron silicate, and these hybrid nanostructures are integrated with graphene nanosheets, showcasing an interesting Li-ion storage performance. (c) Efficient exfoliation of naturally available graphite minerals in molten salt is introduced leading to the formation of carbon nanostructures with promising applications in both Li-ion and Na-ion storage. The economic and strategic advantages associated with utilizing such naturally available resources for energy storage applications are also discussed. References W. Zhu, A.R. Kamali*, J. Alloy Compd. 932 (2023) 167724W. Zhu, A.R. Kamali*, J Alloy Compd. 968 (2023) 171823A.R. Kamali*, H. Zhao, J. Alloy Compd. 949 (2023) 169819W. Zhu, A.R. Kamali*, J. Alloy Compd. 831(2020) 154781H. Zhao, A. Rezaei, A.R. Kamali*, J. Electrochem. Soc. 169 (2022) 054512A.R. Kamali*, J. Ye, Miner. Eng. 172 (2021) 107175S. Li, A.R. Kamali*, Chem. Eng. Sci. 265 (2023) 118222S. Li, A.R. Kamali*, Gels 9 (2023) 701S. Li, A.R. Kamali*, Colloids Surf. A 656 (2023) 130275H. Fu, A.R. Kamali* et al, Chem. Eng. J. (2023) 146936W. Zhu, A.R. Kamali*, J. Electrochem. Soc. 168 (2021) 046517

(Nanocarbons Division Poster Award, 3rd Place) Investigating the Impact of Reaction and Carbonization Variables on ZIF-67 and Its Energy Storage Properties

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with their exceptional properties such as high surface area, well-defined pores, and diverse chemical functionalities, have garnered widespread attention in scientific and industrial domains [1-2]. Among these, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), known for their chemical and thermal stability, are extensively explored for applications ranging from catalysis and gas adsorption to electronic devices and sensors.By employing a novel hydrothermal method in aqueous solutions at room temperature, ZIF-67 nanocrystals were successfully synthesized, eliminating the need for toxic organic solvents and reducing overall costs. The resulting materials demonstrated notable efficiency in energy storage. To address the increasing demand for scalable synthesis methods, the study investigated the impact of reaction scale, reaction time, and reaction mixture dilution on the yield, morphology, and molecular structure of ZIF-67. The optimized conditions increased the production yield to 83%, surpassing the reported 75%. The subsequent carbonization process under three different regimes (800 °C, 800 °C with 3h ramp, 900 °C) resulted in materials exhibiting promising energy storage capabilities, with capacitance values reaching 81 F g−1 at a low sweep rate of 5 mV s−1. The carbonization yield showed a decrease with increasing carbonization time and temperature, and capacitance values were influenced by the presence of cobalt in the material.A slightly higher specific surface area of sample C-800 is reflected in the slightly higher capacitance values over all sweep rates indicating that specific surface area plays a role in the behavior of here synthesized materials. Capacitance is invariant at higher sweep rates (above 20mV s-1) which can be an indication that a part of the material surface, at macro- and mesopores, is highly responsive and highly conductive. At lower sweep rates micropores become available, due to prolonged time for ion insertion, which increases the capacitance that is unavailable at higher sweep rates. The highest percentage rise in capacitance is also seen in sample C-800 as its micropore volume, 40% of its total volume, is the highest among the samples investigated.Specifically, considering only the carbon part, the specific capacitance reached 176 F g−1, comparable to literature values for MOF-derived carbons [3]. The study suggests that dissolution of cobalt could enhance the material's capacitance behavior, opening avenues for further improvement in energy storage applications. This transformative approach addresses challenges associated with escalating energy demands and showcases the potential of ZIF-67-derived materials in electrochemical applications.AcknowledgementThis research was supported by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, grant number 7750219, Advanced Conducting Polymer-Based Materials for Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage, Sensors and Environmental Protection-AdConPolyMat (IDEAS programme)

Design and Preparation of One-Dimensional Cathode By Electrophoretic Deposition Method for Flexible Knitted Batteries

Rechargeable batteries are highly promising energy storage systems that can convert and store electrical energy. Effective energy storage systems should have high energy density, high power, safety, environmentally friendliness, and long cycle life. To meet the aforementioned objectives, researchers have attempted to use different morphologies of nanomaterials as electrodes to improve the electrochemical performance of batteries. Among the materials available, one-dimensional structures have unique properties over traditional ones and extensive applications in wearable devices due to their flexibility [1]. Flexible batteries have several advantages such as mechanical flexibility, good energy storage capabilities, affordability, and environmental safety [2]. They knitted or sewed into textiles, folded into random forms, and wrapped around body parts like the neck or wrist [3]. However, there is little research that covers Li-ion batteries that have a one-dimensional flexible structure.Achieving simultaneous high electronic/ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability is difficult in a homogeneous single-component electrode material. Consequently, the development of precisely defined functional one-dimensional (1D) hetero-nanostructures that effectively integrate the advantages and address the limitations of various electrochemically active materials becomes critical [1].The proposed methodology involves the electrophoretic deposition of lithium iron phosphate on conductive nickel wire, providing a one-dimensional cathode structure. As an anode, nickel-tin is deposited on nickel wire by electrochemical deposition. The deposition method allows greater precision and control over the deposition of active material on the current collector and also has possible applications on different structures such as 1D and 3D. Also, the electrolyte was obtained by layer-by-layer method, by dipping the cathode and anode, separately, in polymers to coat the cathode material as an electrolyte-separator film. The full cell was assembled and the better results will be presented in the meeting. Acknowledgments This research was funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant No. АР19679855).

Organic Trimer Molecule Electrode as a High-Performance Next-Generation Supercapacitor Material

As greenhouse gas emissions such as CO2 continue to increase on a global scale, countries around the world are making changes to reduce their net emissions. One of the primary actions being taken is attempting to decarbonize the transportation sector by moving away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles and adopting electric vehicles (EVs). Supercapacitors are electrical energy storage devices similar in concept to batteries, however they achieve a higher power output, faster charge and discharge rates, and greater longevity. These properties make them excellent devices to work in tandem with batteries that advance their collective performance capabilities in EVs. Supercapacitors using inorganic materials such as transition metal oxides have been explored extensively and although there have been advancements in the field, they continue to struggle with limitations such as mechanical degradation during cycling, low conductivity which slows the charging-discharging processes, and the utilization of environmentally toxic metals. On the other hand, quinones are a class of organic materials considered as the most promising candidates for organic electrodes due to their ≥ 2 reversible redox-active carbonyl groups, inexpensiveness, ease of structural modifications, and environmental sustainability. However, like many organic materials, they suffer from low electrical conductivity and dissolution in electrolyte. To minimize dissolution while retaining and improving its advantages, polymerizing quinones has become a popular modification alternative, especially via polyimide and polythioether bonds. However, because polymer chains are so large and inherently have low electronic conductivity, polymerizing quinones inhibits charge transfer throughout a matrix with a carbon substrate (i.e., rGO, CNT, carbon black) due to interference with the conductive network.In this research, a smaller molecule was made from covalently bonding two different quinones via imide bonds to make an organic trimer. This helped reduce dissolution in electrolyte compared to its monomeric components via increasing the molecular weight while also improving the energy storage capabilities as a supercapacitor electrode. This is attributed to this molecule retaining the original redox active sites of its monomers and its conjugated network which allows it to achieve a 6-electron transfer mechanism per molecule. Its smaller size compared to a polymer is also hypothesized to reduce the degree of conductivity interruptions it causes when part of a carbon substrate network. While polymer chains can agglomerate easily, decreasing its available specific surface area, this trimer may be more available to participate in Faradaic processes. This research hereby reports an electrode material with very high capacitance (318 Fg-1 at 5 mVs-1) and good cycling stability utilizing a low-cost carbon black substrate for supercapacitor applications to improve the performance of next-generation EVs.

Balancing the Mechanical and Electrochemical Properties of Multifunctional Composite Electrolyte for Structural Batteries

The pursuit of energy-efficient for electric vehicles and aircraft has driven the exploration of structural batteries. In the material-level design of structural batteries, electrode and electrolyte materials act as both load-bearing structures and energy storage elements. During these developments, carbon fibers with excellent mechanical and electrical conductive properties were used as electroactive materials and current collectors. However, most of these systems are combined with electrolytes without mechanical integrity (such as liquid or gel-type electrolytes), thus limiting the load-carrying performance of the battery. Currently the development of electrolytes for structural batteries remains challenging because the parameters enhancing electrochemical properties are often in contradiction with that for mechanical properties. In response to this challenge, the present study proposes a multifunctional composite electrolyte with balanced mechanical and electrochemical properties, which uses polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as the matrix and metal-organic frameworks (MOF) modified glass fabric (MOF@GF) as the reinforcement. This study systematically investigates the following factors on mechanical and electrochemical properties of the composite electrolytes. Firstly, MOF with high specific surface areas and metal open sites onto the surface of glass fibers establishes a robust ion transporting network. With 20% MOF modified glass fiber and resin content 89%, the electrolyte exhibits high ion conductivity (1.74 × 10-3 S cm−1). In addition, by carefully controlling the resin content, a key parameter for fiber-reinforced composites, a delicate balance between mechanical strength and ionic conductivity can be achieved. Furthermore, interfaces were investigated, including glass fiber-MOF and MOF-PVDF interfaces, revealing the importance of effectively transfers stress and maintains structural integrity. Finally, these findings were combined to create a structural lithium metal battery that utilizes carbon fiber (CF) as the positive electrode and lithium metal as the anode. The resulting battery exhibits ultra-high tensile strength while maintaining a moderate capacity, ensuring normal operation under high voltage stress. This breakthrough discovery not only enhances the understanding of multifunctional composite electrolytes, but is also expected to promote further research and applications in the field of structural batteries. The promise of enhanced system electrolytes opens new avenues for lightweight design, space efficiency and expanded energy storage capabilities in electric vehicles and aircraft. Figure 1 . SEM images of (a) bare glass fiber. (b) MOF grown in-situ on glass fiber. (c) Single fiberglass within polymer matrix. (d) Cross section of the composite polymer electrolyte membrane. Figure 1

Development of Epoxy-Resin Based Solid Electrolytes for Multifunctional Structural Batteries

A structural battery is defined as being multifunctional; it is a load bearing system with some electrochemical energy storing capability. The electrolyte system is the key enabler for a multifunctional structural battery as it must possess sufficient ionic conductivity (~10-4S/cm) and mechanical strength (Youngs’s modulus ~ 600-900 MPa) simultaneously. Polymeric systems offer the best possible scenario for practical realization of multifunctional structural batteries due to a set of favorable properties, such as reasonable ionic conductivity, easy processability etc. In the present work, we focus on the development of a dual-phase structural battery electrolyte to optimize ionic conductivity and mechanical performance simultaneously. An epoxy resin-based system is chosen due to its high mechanical strength and its ability for in-situ polymerization that leads to a unique microstructure promoting multi-functionality. Diglycidyl ether of Bisphenol A (DGEBA) accounts for the epoxy to provide hard segments in the matrix and is cured by an amine compound (Jeffamine T-403). A liquid electrolyte is added to the system for improving ionic conductivity without compromising its mechanical strength substantially. Multiple liquid components consisting of lithium salt and solvents are considered -lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LITFSI) dissolved in a solution of ethylene carbonate (EC) and dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP) and LiTFSI dissolved in 1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMIM-TFSI). Ionic conductivity of the electrolyte systems as a function of temperature is measured utilizing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Uniaxial load tests are performed to evaluate the mechanical properties (e.g., Young’s modulus, Yield strength) of the epoxy-based electrolyte systems with and without the addition of the ion conducting liquids. Comparative data on the epoxy-based systems containing varying amounts of liquid components will be presented.

Enhanced energy storage properties in (Bi0.5Na0.5)0.5Sr0.5TiO3- modified lead-free NaNbO3 antiferroelectric ceramics

The lead-free antiferroelectric material NaNbO3 (NN) is highly regarded for its exceptional breakdown electric field strength (Eb) and substantial recoverable energy storage density (Wrec). However, the significant energy loss of NN reduces its Wrec and η under a strong electric field, constraining its application in energy storage domains. This study explores a novel approach by integrating the relaxation ferroelectric (Bi1/2Na1/2)1/2Sr1/2TiO3 (BNST) into NN to create NN-BNST relaxation anti-ferroelectrics, aiming to enhance their energy storage capabilities. The incorporation of BNST not only effectively reduces the grain size of NN but also disrupts its long-range ordered structure, forming polar nanoregions (PNRs) that mitigate energy density loss. Both Wrec and η of NN ceramic are significantly improved with increasing the concentration of BNST. Optimal results are achieved with the 0.75NN-0.25BNST ceramics, which demonstrate a high energy storage density (Wrec = 3.83 J/cm3) and conversion efficiency (η = 76 %) while achieving an Eb of 236 kV/cm. The analysis of Eb enhancement in NN-BNST ceramics is conducted through considerations of grain size, band-gap width, and activation energy, offering a robust framework for developing new NN-based antiferroelectrics for energy storage applications.

High-temperature capacitive energy storage in polymer nanocomposites through nanoconfinement

Polymeric-based dielectric materials hold great potential as energy storage media in electrostatic capacitors. However, the inferior thermal resistance of polymers leads to severely degraded dielectric energy storage capabilities at elevated temperatures, limiting their applications in harsh environments. Here we present a flexible laminated polymer nanocomposite where the polymer component is confined at the nanoscale, achieving improved thermal-mechanical-electrical stability within the resulting nanocomposite. The nanolaminate, consisting of nanoconfined polyetherimide (PEI) polymer sandwiched between solid Al2O3 layers, exhibits a high energy density of 18.9 J/cm3 with a high energy efficiency of ~ 91% at elevated temperature of 200°C. Our work demonstrates that nanoconfinement of PEI polymer results in reduced diffusion coefficient and constrained thermal dynamics, leading to a remarkable increase of 37°C in glass-transition temperature compared to bulk PEI polymer. The combined effects of nanoconfinement and interfacial trapping within the nanolaminates synergistically contribute to improved electrical breakdown strength and enhanced energy storage performance across temperature range up to 250°C. By utilizing the flexible ultrathin nanolaminate on curved surfaces such as thin metal wires, we introduce an innovative concept that enables the creation of a highly efficient and compact metal-wired capacitor, achieving substantial capacitance despite the minimal device volume.

Recent Advances in Carbon Nanotube Technology: Bridging the Gap from Fundamental Science to Wide Applications

Carbon nanotubes, as carbon allotropes distinguished by their intricate structures and exceptional physicochemical properties, have demonstrated substantial progress in recent years across diverse domains, including energy production, chemical synthesis, and environmental preservation. They exhibit notable attributes such as high thermal stability, superior adsorption capacity, and a substantial specific surface area, rendering them superb catalyst supports. Particularly in electrochemical energy storage, CNTs are extensively employed in supercapacitor electrodes owing to their elevated electrical conductivity, mechanical robustness, and electrocatalytic prowess, which facilitate significant energy storage capabilities. Their intricate pore architecture and reactive sites make functionalized carbon nanotubes well suited for synthesizing composite materials with diverse components, which are ideal for sequestering carbon dioxide from both atmospheric and indoor environments. This review presents a comprehensive examination of carbon nanotube synthesis methodologies, encompassing chemical vapor deposition, arc discharge, and laser ablation, and evaluates their impacts on the structural and functional properties of carbon nanotubes. Furthermore, this article underscores the applications of carbon nanotubes in fields such as fuel cells, photocatalysis, ammonia synthesis, dry methane reforming, Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, and supercapacitors. Despite the considerable potential of carbon nanotubes, their manufacturing processes remain intricate and costly, impeding large-scale industrial production. This review concludes by addressing the challenges in fabricating carbon nanotube composites and outlining future development prospects.

Pseudocapacitive Electrode Based on MnO2 Loaded Activated Charcoal on Graphite Paper for Sustainable Energy Storage

AbstractThe design of high‐performance electrode material without compromising energy and power density is critical for the advancement in hybrid electric vehicle technology. In this perspective, we have fabricated a MnO2 loaded activated charcoal‐based electrode on graphite paper as an endeavour to improve the energy storage capabilities. The electrode material is synthesized by employing a sustainable route and the structural, microstructural, and textural properties have been investigated. The electrochemical performance for energy storage is evaluated and the fabricated electrode on graphite paper exhibits remarkably high‐power density (811 W kg−1) maintaining high energy density (106 Wh kg−1) at the same time, along with high gravimetric specific capacitance value of 768 F g−1 at 2 mA cm−2. The obtained results demonstrate the excellent performance of the electrode material, suggesting MnO2 loaded activated charcoal as a prospective electrode material to meet the demand of hybrid electric vehicles as well as to contribute to our transitioning towards low‐to‐zero carbon emission technology.

ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 nanocomposites: A tailored nanostructure for enhanced supercapacitor, photocatalytic & antimicrobial applications

The present study reported the synthesis of a novel ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 nanocomposite by a two-step method, involving hydrothermal synthesis followed by a co-precipitation method. As synthesized ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 nanocomposite was further used for the supercapacitor study, photocatalytic dye degradation, and antimicrobial applications. It was fairly challenging to enhance the supercapacitor performances of ZnO. Therefore, it was imperative to develop a novel approach utilizing a binary nanostructure composed of ZnO and Ag2ZrO3. This strategy aims to synergistically enhance the energy storage and conversion capabilities of inorganic materials, while simultaneously augmenting the photocatalytic and antimicrobial activity in the synthesized ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 nanocomposites. Among ZnO, Ag2ZrO3, and ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 nanocomposites with a varying weight percentage of Ag2ZrO3 (10 %, 20 %, 30 %, & 40 %), the ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 (20 %) electrode exhibited the highest specific capacitance (463.3 Fg–1) and energy density (10.2 Whkg–1) at current density 1 mAcm–2. Furthermore, we examined the photocatalytic activity, in the presence of persulfate ion (PS), the ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 (20 %) nanocomposite demonstrated superior degradation efficiency for Rhodamine B (RhB), Methyl Orange (MO), and Methylene Blue (MB). Almost 100 % degradation of RhB was observed in just 120 min of visible light irradiation, whereas only 27.6 %, 62.4 %, and 42.7 % of RhB degradation was observed on the pristine ZnO, ZnO/PS, and ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 (20 %) materials, respectively. This enhanced photocatalytic activity was attributed to the synergetic effect of photoinduced electron activating PS ions to form sulfate radicals (˙SO4̄), higher visible light harvesting by ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 nanocomposite, and better charge separation. Five cycles of reusability test with no significant loss in dye degradation efficiency, confirms the stability test of ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 (20 %) nanocomposite. Moreover, the synthesized ZnO/Ag2ZrO3 (20 %) nanocomposite possesses improved antimicrobial potential against both gram +ve and gram -ve bacteria.

Nanostructured Transition Metal Oxides on Carbon Fibers for Supercapacitor and Li-Ion Battery Electrodes: An Overview.

Nowadays, owing to the new technological and industrial requirements for equipment, such as flexibility or multifunctionally, the development of all-solid-state supercapacitors and Li-ion batteries has become a goal for researchers. For these purposes, the composite material approach has been widely proposed due to the promising features of woven carbon fiber as a substrate material for this type of material. Carbon fiber displays excellent mechanical properties, flexibility, and high electrical conductivity, allowing it to act as a substrate and a collector at the same time. However, carbon fiber's energy-storage capability is limited. Several coatings have been proposed for this, with nanostructured transition metal oxides being one of the most popular due to their high theoretical capacity and surface area. In this overview, the main techniques used to achieve these coatings-such as solvothermal synthesis, MOF-derived obtention, and electrochemical deposition-are summarized, as well as the main strategies for alleviating the low electrical conductivity of transition metal oxides, which is the main drawback of these materials.

Lithium doping's effects on the microstructural, dielectric, energy storage, optical and electrical properties of BaTi0.89Sn0.11O3 ceramics

The present study discusses the synthesis of lithium-doped barium stannate titanate BaTi0.89Sn0.11O3 (BTS11) using sol–gel synthesis route and explores the influence of the lithium content on their structural, morphological, ferroelectric, optical, and electrical properties. The phase of the sol–gel prepared samples with different atomic composition BaLixTi0.89Sn0.11O3(BLxTS11), with x = 0 %, 2 %, 4 %, 6 %, 8 and 10 %, was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealing the formation of pure perovskite exhibiting lattice strain. Structural characterization was additionally conducted using Raman spectroscopy to detect structural and the chemical environment modifications caused Li incorporation. The doping induced variation also in the morphology and grain size of BLxTS11 pellets studied using SEM micrographs, which revealed evident grain size changes inversely proportional to the BLxTS11 lattice strain. The samples were then inspected for their ferroelectric properties. The maximum dielectric constant of all samples was observed at a temperature of around 45–50 °C. In addition, correlations between the chemical, structural, and morphological properties of the BLxTS11 ceramics and their energy storage capabilities were established. According to the P-E hysteresis behavior, BL6TS11 ceramic (x = 6 %) ferroelectric demonstrated the highest energy-storage capabilities, with a recoverable energy-storage density of 225 mJ/cm3 and an energy-storage efficiency of 60 %. The optical and electrical properties of the material were also investigated revealing a decrease in the band gap values and a significant increase of resistivity by Li doping.

Pulsed laser-modified zinc anode with improved dendrite and corrosion resistance for sustainable high performance zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors

This research explores the development and evaluation of zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZIHSCs) with a focus on the enhanced performance and low corrosion attributes of pulsed laser-modified zinc anodes compared to their non-modified counterparts. These anodes, paired with cathodes crafted from activated carbon derived from jute sticks on graphite foil, were immersed in a 2 M zinc sulfate electrolyte. A pivotal aspect of the study is improving the electrochemical properties and corrosion resistance of zinc anodes achieved through precise pulsed laser modification. Extensive electrochemical testing was conducted to assess the capacitive behavior, energy storage capabilities, and durability of the supercapacitors during prolonged cycling. Hence, using the laser modified anode, we attain remarkable stability in Zn||Zn symmetric cells for 1000 h at high current density of 10 mA cm−2 with a capacity of 1 mAh cm−2, and ZIHSCs achieving specific capicitance up to 287 F/g at a current density of 0.1 A/g, and reaching an energy density of 102 Wh/kg while sustaining a power density of 80 W/kg. After 10,000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles, these supercapacitors maintained high capacitance values, underscoring their resilience. Notably, charge transfer resistance reduction, improved ion diffusion and enhanced corrosion resistance contributes to the supercapacitors' longevity and efficiency, which can be attributed to these anodes laser-induced surface alterations. This study highlights the crucial role of pulsed laser-modified zinc anodes in advancing ZIHSCs performance, marking a significant step towards achieving efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions.

Significantly enhanced high-temperature energy storage performance for polymer composite films with gradient distribution of organic fillers

Film capacitors as one of the most important electronic devices are heading in large capacity, heightened integration and excellent extreme-condition tolerance, which faces the challenges in maintaining outstanding performance under harsh conditions of high temperature and large electric field. Nonetheless, polymer capacitive films, which are renowned for their exceptional thermal stability, experience an escalation in conduction losses at elevated temperatures, resulting in degradation of energy storage performance. This study presents the gradient distribution of organic fillers content in all-organic polymer capacitive films utilizing electrospinning technique, the significantly improved high-temperature energy storage performance has been achieved. Glucose (GLC), a weak polar molecule rich in hydroxyl groups, is blended with the most promising polyetherimide (PEI). Experimental and theoretical calculations confirm that the formed hydrogen bond between GLC and PEI acts as a trapping site for capturing carriers and suppressing conduction losses. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of organic fillers was designed on the basis of direct mixing. The results demonstrate that the gradient composite film introduces interlayer interfacial polarization, while the dielectric mismatch between adjacent layers increases the height of potential barriers for the charge carriers across the interfaces, thereby achieving a synergistic enhancement of dielectric response and insulation strength. The maximum discharge energy density of 6.52 J/cm3 with an efficiency of 85.6 % has been achieved at 150℃ for the modified capacitive films. This work establishes a decoupling relationship between permittivity and electric breakdown strength, offering insights for the advancement of polymer films with outstanding energy storage capabilities in extreme environments.