Energy Storage Technologies Research Articles

Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications: next-generation energy storage and 5G technology for enhanced connectivity and energy solutions

Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications involves leveraging next-generation energy storage and 5G technology to enhance connectivity and energy solutions. This review explores the intersection of these two domains, highlighting the importance of advancements in energy storage and 5G technology for a sustainable and connected future. Energy storage is crucial for balancing the supply and demand of electricity in modern power systems. Traditional energy storage methods, such as batteries and pumped hydro, have limitations in terms of scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Next-generation energy storage technologies, including advanced batteries, hydrogen storage, and thermal storage, offer promising solutions to overcome these limitations. These technologies enable efficient energy storage at scale, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the grid. By storing excess energy generated during periods of low demand, next-generation energy storage systems ensure a reliable and stable power supply, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In parallel, the evolution of telecommunications technology, particularly the advent of 5G networks, is revolutionizing connectivity and communication. 5G technology offers significantly higher data transfer speeds, lower latency, and increased network capacity compared to its predecessors. These capabilities are essential for supporting emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and smart grids. With 5G-enabled IoT devices, utilities can monitor energy consumption in real-time, optimize grid operations, and detect and respond to faults more efficiently. Moreover, 5G connectivity enhances the efficiency and reliability of energy storage systems by enabling seamless communication between distributed energy resources and grid operators. The convergence of next-generation energy storage and 5G technology presents numerous opportunities for driving innovation in both energy and telecommunications sectors. One of the key areas of innovation is the development of smart energy storage systems equipped with 5G connectivity. These systems can autonomously adjust their operation based on grid conditions, weather forecasts, and energy demand patterns, optimizing energy storage and distribution in real-time. Furthermore, advanced energy management algorithms leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms can optimize energy usage and storage, further improving the efficiency and reliability of the grid. Another area of innovation lies in the integration of renewable energy resources with 5G-enabled microgrids. Microgrids are localized energy systems that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main grid. By combining renewable energy sources with energy storage and 5G-enabled communication, microgrids can provide reliable, clean, and resilient power to remote or urban areas. These microgrids can also facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, allowing consumers to buy and sell excess energy within their communities, fostering energy independence and sustainability. Furthermore, advancements in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries and flow batteries, are enhancing the performance and reliability of energy storage systems. Solid-state batteries offer higher energy density, faster charging rates, and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Flow batteries, on the other hand, provide scalability and long-duration storage capabilities, making them suitable for grid-scale applications. Integrating these advanced battery technologies with 5G-enabled monitoring and control systems enhances the overall resilience and flexibility of the energy infrastructure. In addition to technological advancements, driving innovation in energy and telecommunications requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, industry players, and research institutions. Policies and regulations should incentivize the deployment of next-generation energy storage and 5G infrastructure, promote interoperability standards, and ensure data privacy and security. Public-private partnerships can facilitate the investment and deployment of innovative solutions, while research and development initiatives can spur further technological advancements. Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications through next-generation energy storage and 5G technology is essential for building a sustainable, connected, and resilient future. By leveraging advanced energy storage systems, smart grids, and 5G-enabled communication networks, we can optimize energy usage, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the reliability and efficiency of our energy infrastructure. Collaboration and investment across various sectors are key to unlocking the full potential of these transformative technologies and achieving a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Keywords: Innovation, Energy, Telecommunications, Next-Generation, 5G technology, Enhanced connectivity.

Development and preparation of novel nano-enhanced organic eutectic phase change materials for low-temperature solar thermal applications

ABSTRACT Thermally reliable and stable eco-friendly Phase change materials are of significant aid in thermal energy storage technology, leading to improved energy utilization and reliability of the system. This study develops two novel organic eutectic PCM of Lauric acid – Margaric acid (LM) and Myristic acid – Margaric acid (MM), which are chemically stable and thermally compatible for latent heat energy storage. LM eutectic mixture had a melting temperature of 52.66°C with a latent heat of 163.68 J/g, and MM eutectic mixture had its melting temperature at 44.79°C and a latent heat of 197.31 J/g. The phase change temperatures were favorable for low temperature solar thermal applications with good latent heat capacity. The thermal characteristics of these eutectic mixtures are further enhanced with the dispersion of highly conductive Multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) at three different mass fractions (.5%, 1% and 1.5% by weight). Nano enhancement could achieve exceptional thermal conductivity enhancement in MM eutectic mixture by 110.6% and 83.73% in LM eutectic mixture. Thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis ensured the thermal and chemical stability of the eutectic mixtures. The optical absorption characteristics were extensively enhanced with nano particle addition, which is highly preferable in solar thermal applications.

Insights Into Electrolyte Strategies for Suppressing Side Reactions Towards Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries

AbstractAqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) have gained significant attention as a promising technology for grid scale energy storage due to their high safety and low cost. Nevertheless, side reactions on the zinc anodes result in a decrease in effi‐ciency decay and capacity loss, hindering the wide‐spread application of AZIBs. Recently, great efforts have been con‐ducted to tackle these challenges, such as modifying the inter‐nal structure of zinc anodes, coating protection on the surface of zinc anodes, and optimizing the electrolytes. However, there is a lack of systematic summary on the design of side reac‐tions‐suppressed zinc anodes, especially through the optimi‐zation strategies of aqueous electrolytes. Herein, this review systematically summarizes the main mechanisms and influence factors of side reactions. Subsequently, we present the main modification strategies based on electrolyte engineering for alleviating side reactions, with a particular emphasis on poly‐mer electrolytes. Lastly, we shed light on the potential research directions and perspectives of aqueous electrolytes, which may promote the development of AZIBs.

Enhancing Ethiopian power distribution with novel hybrid renewable energy systems for sustainable reliability and cost efficiency

Economic development relies on access to electrical energy, which is crucial for society’s growth. However, power shortages are challenging due to non-renewable energy depletion, unregulated use, and a lack of new energy sources. Ethiopia’s Debre Markos distribution network experiences over 800 h of power outages annually, causing financial losses and resource waste on diesel generators (DGs) for backup use. To tackle these concerns, the present study suggests a hybrid power generation system, which combines solar and biogas resources, and integrates Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES) and Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (PHES) technologies into the system. The study also thoroughly analyzes the current and anticipated demand connected to the distribution network using a backward/forward sweep load flow analysis method. The results indicate that the total power loss has reached its absolute maximum, and the voltage profiles of the networks have dropped below the minimal numerical values recommended by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards (i.e., 0.95–1.025 p.u.). After reviewing the current distribution network’s operation, additional steps were taken to improve its effectiveness, using metaheuristic optimization techniques to account for various objective functions and constraints. In the results section, it is demonstrated that the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) outperforms other metaheuristic optimization techniques across three important objective functions: financial, reliability, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This comparison is based on the capability of the natural selection whale optimization algorithm (NSWOA) to achieve the best possible values for four significant metrics: Cost of Energy (COE), Net Present Cost (NPC), Loss of Power Supply Probability (LPSP), and GHG Emissions. The NSWOA achieved optimal values for these metrics, namely 0.0812 €/kWh, 3.0017 × 106 €, 0.00875, and 7.3679 × 106 kg reduced, respectively. This is attributable to their thorough economic, reliability, and environmental evaluation. Finally, the forward/backward sweep load flow analysis employed during the proposed system’s integration significantly reduced the impact of new energy resources on the distribution network. This was evident in the reduction of total power losses from 470.78 to 18.54 kW and voltage deviation from 6.95 to 0.35 p.u., as well as the voltage profile of the distribution system being swung between 1 and 1.0234 p.u., which now comply with the standards set by the IEEE. Besides, a comparison of the cost and GHG emission efficiency of the proposed hybrid system with existing (grid + DGs) and alternative (only DGs) scenarios was done. The findings showed that, among the scenarios examined, the proposed system is the most economical and produces the least amount of GHG emissions.

Origin of deactivation of aqueous Na–CO2 battery and mitigation for long-duration energy storage

The development of long-duration energy storage technology is crucial to facilitate the efficient utilization of renewable energy sources while mitigating carbon dioxide production. In this study, we investigate the deactivation and reactivation mechanisms of the aqueous Na–CO2 battery during extended cycling. We have designed the cathode to include non-precious intermetallic catalysts. As the cell undergoes repeated cycles, the voltage polarization during discharge progressively rises, eventually leading to the cell's deactivation and formation of decomposition products clogging the electrode surface. Results obtained from comprehensive characterization techniques, including conductive atomic force microscopy (cAFM), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry provide insight into the decomposition products. We also showcase an electrochemical approach for regeneration of these aqueous cells. Our findings, along with the insights we have gained, provide a path toward creating long-duration systems with self-healing properties.

Design Strategies for Anti‐Freeze Electrolytes in Aqueous Energy Storage Devices at Low Temperatures

AbstractWith the continuous development of electrochemical energy storage technology, especially in the current pursuit of environmental sustainability and safety, aqueous energy storage devices, due to their high safety, environmental friendliness, and cost‐effectiveness, are becoming an important direction of development in the field of energy storage. Diverse application scenarios require that energy storage systems be capable of continuous power supply under low temperature conditions. However, conventional aqueous electrolytes freeze at extremely low temperatures, causing limited ion transport and slow reaction kinetics, degrading the performance of the energy storage system. The design of low‐temperature anti‐freeze aqueous electrolytes has become an effective way to address this issue. In this review, the deep connection between hydrogen bonds (HBs) interactions in aqueous electrolytes and the liquid‐to‐solid conversion process, and the fundamental principles of the anti‐freeze mechanism is first explored. Subsequently, a systematic categorization and discussion of the design strategies for low‐temperature anti‐freeze aqueous electrolytes are conducted. Finally, potential directions are proposed. This review aims to provide comprehensive scientific guidance and technical reference for the development of anti‐freeze aqueous electrolytes with excellent low‐temperature performance, thereby promoting the application and innovation of aqueous energy storage devices in low‐temperature environments.

Two‐stage stochastic‐robust planning of distributed energy storage systems with Archimedes optimisation algorithm

AbstractWith the advancement of energy storage technologies, energy storage systems (ESSs) have emerged as a promising solution for distribution networks to mitigate the impact of intermittent and violate renewable energy sources. The optimal planning of distributed ESS is studied to minimise the investment and operational costs for the distribution system operator. To address the various uncertainties associated with load demand and distributed generation, the authors formulate the problem as a two‐stage stochastic‐robust optimisation problem. The proposed formulation implements various representative scenarios of actual operating conditions and constructs the robust uncertainty set to ensure feasibility under worst‐case scenarios. In view of the computational complexity of the proposed model, a solution approach combining the Archimedes optimisation algorithm and the global optimisation method is presented. By decomposing the investment and operation stages, the subproblems are relaxed into mixed integer second‐order cone programming models, which can be solved in parallel based on scenarios. Numerical studies are carried out on a 17‐node test system to demonstrate the validity of the proposed model and algorithm. In addition, a comparison between the proposed method and the genetic algorithm is performed, to illustrate its superiority in solving speed and solution optimality.

A Review on the Recent Advances in Battery Development and Energy Storage Technologies

Energy storage is a more sustainable choice to meet net-zero carbon foot print and decarbonization of the environment in the pursuit of an energy independent future, green energy transition, and uptake. The journey to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, increased grid stability and reliability, and improved green energy access and security are the result of innovation in energy storage systems. Renewable energy sources are fundamentally intermittent, which means they rely on the availability of natural resources like the sun and wind rather than continuously producing energy. Due to its ability to address the inherent intermittency of renewable energy sources, manage peak demand, enhance grid stability and reliability, and make it possible to integrate small-scale renewable energy systems into the grid, energy storage is essential for the continued development of renewable energy sources and the decentralization of energy generation. Accordingly, the development of an effective energy storage system has been prompted by the demand for unlimited supply of energy, primarily through harnessing of solar, chemical, and mechanical energy. Nonetheless, in order to achieve green energy transition and mitigate climate risks resulting from the use of fossil-based fuels, robust energy storage systems are necessary. Herein, the need for better, more effective energy storage devices such as batteries, supercapacitors, and bio-batteries is critically reviewed. Due to their low maintenance needs, supercapacitors are the devices of choice for energy storage in renewable energy producing facilities, most notably in harnessing wind energy. Moreover, supercapacitors possess robust charging and discharging cycles, high power density, low maintenance requirements, extended lifespan, and are environmentally friendly. On the other hand, combining aluminum with nonaqueous charge storage materials such as conductive polymers to make use of each material’s unique capabilities could be crucial for continued development of robust storage batteries. In general, energy density is a key component in battery development, and scientists are constantly developing new methods and technologies to make existing batteries more energy proficient and safe. This will make it possible to design energy storage devices that are more powerful and lighter for a range of applications. When there is an imbalance between supply and demand, energy storage systems (ESS) offer a way of increasing the effectiveness of electrical systems. They also play a central role in enhancing the reliability and excellence of electrical networks that can also be deployed in off-grid localities.

Three Birds with One Stone: Multifunctional Separators Based on SnSe Nanosheets Enable High‐Performance Li‐, Na‐ and K‐Sulfur Batteries

AbstractAlkali metal‐sulfur batteries (MSBs) are one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage technologies due to their high energy density and potential for low cost. They are nonetheless constrained by the sluggish conversion of metal polysulfides (MPS) during the charge/discharge process. Herein, a multifunctional separator able to trap the MPS and catalyze their conversion in the three main MSB chemistries, Li‐, Na‐, and K‐MSBs, is demonstrated. More in detail, SnSe nanosheets are introduced as additive into the cathode side of the glass microfiber (GF) separator of the MSB. Taking lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) as an example, it is demonstrated that the GF‐SnSe separator (GF@SnSe) shows strong chemical affinity to lithium polysulfides (LiPS) and superior catalytic activity, inhibiting the transport of LiPSs to the anode and accelerating their conversion. Combining experimental and calculation results, the SnSe additive is shown to decrease the Li2S decomposition energy barrier. Overall, GF@SnSe separators provide significantly improved LSB rate performance and cycling stability with a 0.049% capacity decay per cycle. Besides, the GF@SnSe separator promotes the electrochemical performance of sodium‐sulfur and potassium‐sulfur batteries. Overall, this work presents a significant advancement in the development of multifunctional separators in LSBs as well as the emerging Na‐S and K‐S systems.

The application of nanotechnology in the field of lithium-ion battery

Nanotechnology, with its remarkable progress, has permeated various aspects of daily life, highlighting its crucial role in shaping the world. One of its most significant applications is in the realm of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), where it holds the potential to dramatically enhance battery performance. This application is studied extensively both in the industry and academia. As the use of LIBs becomes more widespread, the demand for these batteries continues to rise. This paper will primarily focus on the utilization of nanotechnology within the LIB sector. This paper will delve into its applications across various components, including the cathode and anode. Furthermore, this paper will explore the potential future applications of nanotechnology in this field, examining how it can revolutionize energy storage technologies. The integration of nanotechnology not only enhances the performance of LIBs but also opens doors to innovative solutions that can address the growing energy demands of the modern society.

The current state of transition metal-based electrocatalysts (oxides, alloys, POMs, and MOFs) for oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, and hydrogen evolution reactions

Climate change is showing its impacts now more than ever. The intense use of fossil fuels and the resulting CO2 emissions are mainly to blame, accentuating the need to develop further the available energy conversion and storage technologies, which are regarded as effective solutions to maximize the use of intermittent renewable energy sources and reduce global CO2 emissions. This work comprehensively overviews the most recent progress and trends in the use of transition metal-based electrocatalysts for three crucial reactions in electrochemical energy conversion and storage, namely, the oxygen evolution (OER), oxygen reduction (ORR), and hydrogen evolution (HER) reactions. By analyzing the state-of-the-art polyoxometalates (POMs) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), the performance of these two promising types of materials for OER, ORR, and HER is compared to that of more traditional transition metal oxides and alloy-based electrocatalysts. Both catalytic activity and stability are highly influenced by the adsorption energies of the intermediate species formed in each reaction, which are very sensitive to changes in the microstructure and chemical microenvironment. POMs and MOFs allow these aspects to be easily modified to fine-tune the catalytic performances. Therefore, their chemical tunability and versatility make it possible to tailor such properties to obtain higher electrocatalytic activities, or even to obtain derived materials with more compelling properties towards these reactions.

The construction of an asymmetric hybrid supercapacitor with 2D materials MXene and perovskite

The construction of an asymmetric hybrid supercapacitor with 2D materials MXene and perovskite

Ether vs. Carbonate solvents in Na–CuS Batteries: Impact on anode Morphology, SEI Formation, and desolvation dynamics

Traditionally, electrolyte solvents in batteries have been regarded primarily as carrier for ion transporters. Here, we reveal the critical roles of solvents in transforming microscale anode materials into porous nanostructures and in facilitating the formation of thinner, more efficient solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers. Using machine-learning-assisted molecular dynamics simulations combined with density functional theory calculations on Na–CuS batteries, we unveil the significant yet previously unclear impact of solvent choice on solvation/desolvation dynamics, a complex area that has been difficult to resolve with traditional methods. We demonstrate that solvent choice significantly impacts the capacity, particularly the rate performance, primarily due to the desolvation dynamics, thus establishing a direct correlation between solvent selection and battery performance. Our findings highlight DEGDME as the optimal solvent for Na–CuS half-cells, due to its low Na desolvation energy and favorable Na–O bond energy. This leads to exceptional energy capacity (610 mAh/g at 2C) and ultrafast charging capability (520 mAh/g at 30C). This research marks a significant advancement in energy storage technology by demonstrating the crucial role of solvent selection in anode morphology, SEI formation, and desolvation energy optimization.

Monitoring Ti3C2Tx MXene Degradation Pathways Using Raman Spectroscopy.

Extending applications of Ti3C2Tx MXene in nanocomposites and across fields of electronics, energy storage, energy conversion, and sensor technologies necessitates simple and efficient analytical methods. Raman spectroscopy is a critical tool for assessing MXene composites; however, high laser powers and temperatures can lead to the materials' deterioration during the analysis. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of MXene photothermal degradation and changes in its oxidation state is required, but no systematic studies have been reported. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the degradation of the MXene lattice through Raman spectroscopic analysis. Distinct spectral markers were related to structural alterations within the Ti3C2Tx material after subjecting it to thermal- and laser-induced degradation. During the degradation processes, spectral markers were revealed for several specific steps: a decrease in the number of interlayer water molecules, a decrease in the number of -OH groups, formation of C-C bonds, oxidation of the lattice, and formation of TiO2 nanoparticles (first anatase, followed by rutile). By tracking of position shifts and intensity changes for Ti3C2Tx, the spectral markers that signify the initiation of each step were found. This spectroscopic approach enhances our understanding of the degradation pathways of MXene, and facilitating enhanced and dependable integration of these materials into devices for diverse applications, from energy storage to sensors.

Exploring the Influence of Cation and Halide Substitution in the Structure and Optical Properties of CH3NH3NiCl3 Perovskite.

This manuscript details a comprehensive investigation into the synthesis, structural characterization, thermal stability, and optical properties of nickel-containing hybrid perovskites, namely CH3NH3NiCl3, CsNiCl3, and CH3NH3NiBrCl2. The focal point of this study is to unravel the intricate crystal structures, thermal behaviors, and optical characteristics of these materials, thereby elucidating their potential application in energy conversion and storage technologies. X-ray powder diffraction measurements confirm that CH3NH3NiCl3 adopts a crystal structure within the Cmcm space group, while CsNiCl3 is organized in the P63/mmc space group, as reported previously. Such structural diversity underscores the complex nature of these perovskites and their potential for tailored applications. Thermal analysis further reveals the stability of CH3NH3NiCl3 and CH3NH3NiBrCl2, which begin to decompose at 260 °C and 295 °C, respectively. The optical absorption properties of these perovskites studied by UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy revealed the bands characteristic of Ni2+ ions in an octahedral environment. Notably, these absorption bands exhibit subtle shifts upon bromide substitution, suggesting that optical properties can be finely tuned through halide modification. Such tunability is paramount for the design and development of materials with specific optical requirements. By offering a detailed examination of these properties, the study lays the groundwork for future advancements in material science, particularly in the development of innovative materials for sustainable energy technologies.

Graphene oxide–lithium-ion batteries: inauguration of an era in energy storage technology

Abstract A significant driving force behind the brisk research on rechargeable batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) in high-performance applications, is the development of portable devices and electric vehicles. Carbon-based materials, which have finite specific capacity, make up the anodes of LiBs. Many attempts are being made to produce novel nanostructured composite anode materials for LiBs that display cycle stability that is superior to that of graphite using graphene oxide. Therefore, using significant amounts of waste graphene oxide from used LiBs represents a fantastic opportunity to engage in waste management and circular economy. This review outlines recent studies, developments and the current advancement of graphene oxide-based LiBs, including preparation of graphene oxide and utilization in LiBs, particularly from the perspective of energy storage technology, which has drawn more and more attention to creating high-performance electrode systems.

Review on performance optimization of Lithium Sulphur Batteries (LiSBs) using carbon based electrodes

Presently, researchers’ and experts are currently dealing with ways to maintain and improve the best performance of several energy storage technologies. This review focuses on how adding carbon derivatives to lithium sulfur battery (LiSBs) electrodes can reduce capacity fade, resistance, breakdown and poor performance while also enabling the best possible use of LiSBs in a variety of devices. Their rate as regards specific capacitance, energy and power densities, life duration, lightweight, etc., are among these optimal performances. The global energy crisis focused more scientists’ attention on how to enhance the performance of LiSBs devices for the benefit of humanity. Numerous carbon derivatives, including GO, rGO, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), etc., have advantageous properties that raise the efficiency of energy storage technologies. This review looked at LiSBs and the impact of carbon derivatives addition on their storage capability, cycle stability, life span and durability.

Sustainable energy storage solutions for coal-fired power plants: A comparative study on the integration of liquid air energy storage and hydrogen energy storage systems

With the majority of the world's energy demand still reliant on fossil fuels, particularly coal, mitigating the substantial carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from coal-fired power plants is imperative for achieving a net-zero carbon future. Energy storage technologies offer a viable solution to provide better flexibility against load fluctuations and reduce the carbon footprint of coal-fired power plants by minimizing exergy losses, thereby achieving better energy efficiency. This work focuses on developing two such energy storage technologies: Liquid Air Energy Storage (LAES) and Hydrogen Energy Storage (HES), and their integration strategies with a sub-critical coal-fired power plant. The performance of the integrated systems is analyzed based on key parameters like energy storage capacity, net unit power output during charging and discharging, round-trip efficiencies, and net unit efficiencies at different operating load conditions of the plant. Our results show that during the charging cycles, by increasing the air flow rate in LAES and the hydrogen production rate in HES, the net unit efficiency of the integrated plant decreases by 3–10% at different load conditions, while the energy-based round-trip efficiency increases with increasing liquid air and hydrogen flow rates during the discharge cycles. For the HES system, utilization of the produced hydrogen in the fuel cells gives 40–50% better roundtrip efficiencies than co-firing hydrogen in the boiler at full and minimum load and it increases with increasing hydrogen flow rates. While HES has shown a better overall net unit efficiency (41.5%, in fuel cell scenario) of the integrated unit than the LAES system (40%) for the base case operation, LAES shows superior round-trip efficiencies when operated at higher liquid air discharge flow rates (>80 kg/s). The results provide insights into the system modeling of LAES and HES integrated with a sub-critical coal power plant, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy storage solutions.

Dual-Function Electrolyte Additive Design for Long Life Alkaline Zinc Flow Batteries.

Alkaline zinc-based flow batteries (AZFBs) have emerged as a promising electrochemical energy storage technology owing to Zn abundance, high safety, and low cost. However, zinc dendrite growth and the formation of dead zinc greatly impede the development of AZFBs. Herein, a dual-function electrolyte additive strategy is proposed to regulate zinc nucleation and mitigate the hydroxide corrosion of zinc depositions for stable AZFBs. This strategy, as exemplified by urea, introduces an electrolyte additive to coordinate with Zn2+/Zn with proper strength, slowing zinc deposition kinetics to induce uniform nucleation and protecting the deposited zinc surface from attack by hydroxide ions through preferable adsorption. The zincate complexes with urea are identified to be Zn(OH)2(urea)(H2O)2 and Zn2(OH)4(H2O)4(urea), which exhibit slow zinc deposition kinetics, allowing instantaneous nucleation. Calculation results reveal an additional energy barrier of 1.29eV for the subsequent adsorption of an OH- group when a urea molecule absorbs on the zinc cluster, significantly mitigating the formation of dead zinc. Consequently, prolonged cell cycling of the prototype alkaline zinc-iron flow battery demonstrates stable operation for over 130 h and an average coulombic efficiency of 98.5%. It is anticipated that this electrolyte additive strategy will pave the way for developing highly stable AZFBs.

Direct Electrodeposition of Electrically Conducting Ni3(HITP)2 MOF Nanostructures for Micro-Supercapacitor Integration.

Micro-supercapacitors emerge as an important electrical energy storage technology expected to play a critical role in the large-scale deployment of autonomous microdevices for health, sensing, monitoring, and other IoT applications. Electrochemical double-layer capacitive storage requires a combination of high surface area and high electronic conductivity, with these being attained only in porous or nanostructured carbons, and recently found also in conducting metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). However, techniques for conformal deposition at micro- and nanoscale of these materials are complex, costly, and hard to upscale. Herein, the study reports direct, one step non-sacrificial anodic electrochemical deposition of Ni3(2,3,6,7,10,11-hexaiminotriphenylene)2 - Ni3(HITP)2, a porous and electrically conducting MOF. Employing this strategy enables the growth of Ni3(HITP)2 films on a variety of 2D substrates as well as on 3D nanostructured substrates to form Ni3(HITP)2 nanotubes and Pt@ Ni3(HITP)2 core-shell nanowires. Based on the optimal electrodeposition protocols, Ni3(HITP)2 films interdigitated micro-supercapacitors are fabricated and tested as a proof of concept.