Fast Charge Research Articles

Construction of S-Scheme Cs2AgBiBr6/BiVO4 Heterojunctions with Fast Charge Transfer Kinetics Toward Promoted Photocatalytic Conversion of CO2.

Lead-based halide perovskites (LHPs) have been widely explored by researchers in the field of photocatalysis. However, the poor stability and toxicity of LHPs limit their large-scale applications. Here, lead-free Cs2AgBiBr6/BiVO4 (CABB/BVO)-X% (X = 30, 50, 100) S-scheme heterojunction composites are prepared by electrostatic assembly, and their catalytic activity for photoreduction of CO2 is evaluated. After 3h of simulated solar irradiation, the prepared CABB/BVO-50% composites show the highest CO yield and electron consumption rate of 143.59 and 352.22µmol g-1, which are 9.2 and 7.8 times higher than that of CABB alone, respectively. In addition, the prepared CABB/BVO-50% photocatalysts exhibit 81.5% high selectivity for CO. The generation of an internal electric field (IEF) between the two materials and the generation of S-scheme heterojunctions are powerfully confirmed by employing various characterization techniques and DFT calculations. The low carrier recombination rate, bandgap-matched heterointerfaces, and exceptional S-scheme charge transfer mechanism are primarily responsible for the outstanding performance. This work provides new insights into the design of efficient lead-free perovskites-based photocatalytic materials.

Electron Shuttling of Iron‐Oxygen‐Cobalt Bridging in Cobalt Assembled Iron Oxyhydroxide Catalyst Boosts the Urea Oxidation Stability and Activity

AbstractIron (Fe)‐based materials hold great potential as urea oxidation reaction (UOR) catalysts, however, the deactivation of active Fe‐oxyhydroxide (FeOOH) species induced by its dissolution during catalytic process under high current densities is still significant challenge. Herein, cobalt (Co) assembled FeOOH is constructed, and the formation of Iron‐Oxygen‐Cobalt (Fe‐O‐Co) bridging triggers the electron transfer from Co to Fe sites. This electron shuttling induces the low valence state of Fe active sites in FeOOH. This Co‐FeOOH catalyst achieves a current density of 1000 mA cm−2 at a low voltage of merely 1.59 V, showing a substantial improvement compared to pure FeOOH (1.97 V). Meanwhile, in the urea‐assisted anion exchange membrane electrolyzer, after 24 h continuous operation at a current density of 1000 mA cm−2, the voltage fluctuation of Co‐FeOOH is merely 12.4%, significantly lower than that of FeOOH (49.9%). The in situ experiments and theoretical calculations demonstrate the electron transfer from Co to Fe sites in Fe‐O‐Co bridging endows the suppressive Fe‐segregation, fast charge transfer of active Fe(Co)OOH phase and negative‐shifted d‐band center of metal active sites, boosting its UOR stability and activity.

Additive‐Free Ti3C2Tx MXene/Carbon Nanotube Aqueous Inks Enable Energy Density Enriched 3D‐Printed Flexible Micro‐Supercapacitors for Modular Self‐Powered Systems

ABSTRACT3D‐printed Ti3C2Tx MXene‐based interdigital micro‐supercapacitors (MSCs) have great potential as energy supply devices in the field of microelectronics due to their short ion diffusion path, high conductivity, excellent pseudocapacitance, and fast charging capabilities. However, searching for eco‐friendly aqueous Ti3C2Tx MXene‐based inks without additives and preventing severe restack of MXene nanosheets in high‐concentration inks are significantly challenging. This study develops an additive‐free, highly printable, viscosity adjustable, and environmentally friendly MXene/carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrid aqueous inks, in which the CNT can not only adjust the viscosity of Ti3C2Tx MXene inks but also widen the interlayer spacing of adjacent Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets effectively. The optimized MXene/CNT composite inks are successfully adopted to construct various configurations of MSCs with remarkable shape fidelity and geometric accuracy, together with enhanced surface area accessibility for electrons and ions diffusion. As a result, the constructed interdigital symmetrical MSCs demonstrate outstanding areal capacitance (1249.3 mF cm−2), superior energy density (111 μWh cm−2 at 0.4 mW cm−2), and high power density (8 mW cm−2 at 47.1 μWh cm−2). Furthermore, a self‐powered modular system of solar cells integrated with MXene/CNT‐MSCs and pressure sensors is successfully tailored, simultaneously achieving efficient solar energy collection and real‐time human activities monitoring. This work offers insight into the understanding of the role of CNTs in MXene/CNT ink. Moreover, it provides a new approach for preparing environmentally friendly MXene‐based inks for the 3D printing of high‐performance MSCs, contributing to the development of miniaturized, flexible, and self‐powered printable electronic microsystems.

Exploring the Thermal Landscape: Comprehensive Insights into Li‐Ion Battery Safety and Management

AbstractLi‐ion batteries have become a leading choice for efficient energy storage due to their high energy density and durability. However, managing their thermal characteristics to optimize performance and safety is a significant challenge during fast charging and abuse conditions. This review article focuses on the thermal characteristics of Li‐ion batteries, battery thermal management systems (BTMS), safety standards, and fire prevention and control strategies. The study explores the limitations and safety concerns of Li‐ion batteries, as well as the factors that influence heat generation and dissipation. The mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of various types of BTMS are analyzed, and the importance of safety standards and testing methodologies are emphasized. The integration of fire extinguisher systems as a critical safety measure is also examined. The goal of this comprehensive analysis is to provide valuable insights for advancing battery technology and establishing robust safety protocols for energy storage.

Exploring Review of Advancements in Fast‐Charging Techniques and Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles Revolution

ABSTRACTThe rapid growth of the electric vehicle (EV) industry has increased the demand for efficient and reliable fast‐charging infrastructure. This paper comprehensively reviews advancements in fast‐charging techniques, focusing on DC fast charging, evolving standards, and charging modes. A detailed analysis of on‐board and off‐board EV chargers is presented, including DC–DC conversion stages with a comparison of isolated and non‐isolated topologies. Key control strategies, such as voltage and current regulation and AI‐driven approaches, are examined to optimize performance and reliability. Thermal management strategies using advanced sensors to enhance safety and battery longevity are also discussed. This paper highlights recent research contributions and emerging challenges, with insights into infrastructure development, energy storage integration, and policy implications. Notably, projections indicate that global EV sales could rise to 35% by 2030, with fast‐charging infrastructure supporting charging times as low as 15 min for 80% battery capacity. Advancements in bidirectional charging and AI‐driven optimization are shaping the next generation of smart EV charging stations. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and policymakers engaged in EV technology and infrastructure development.

Enhancing urban sustainability through optimizing Distributed energy resources for electric vehicles’ fast charging

The rapid growth of the electric vehicles (EVs) market penetration rate and the resulting energy demand will impact the electricity supply-demand balance and stability in the electricity distribution network. These impacts could be mitigated by distributed energy resources (DERs) (i.e. second-life batteries (SLB), new batteries (NB), solar panels, and flywheels). To support the energy demand of EVs at fast-charging stations whilst minimizing the cost of the system, a mixed-integer optimization model is developed considering the spatiotemporal demand (existing demand and EV demand), the details of the electric grid distribution network, spatiotemporal power generation of solar panels, energy storage systems’ (ESSs’) charge/discharge schedule, and the capacity constraints. The case study (major cities in Michigan) shows sensitivity to the seasonal variation in the grid and solar conditions and the DER’s unit cost. Based on the result, providing the maximum area for solar panels leads to the maximum cost savings. Lithium-ion SLBs offer a cost-effective solution for energy storage, efficiently utilizing time-of-use electricity rates and intermittent solar energy. Depending on the existing and fast-charging energy demand, grid upgrades may be necessary at some locations.

Comprehensive Review of Advanced Multi-Pulse Rectifier Technology and Its Application in Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Systems

Fast charging technology for electric vehicles (EVs) is one of the key components in supporting the transition to a sustainable transportation system. This article discusses advanced multi-pulse rectifier technology, such as 12-pulse, 24-pulse, and 48-pulse configurations, which are used to improve power efficiency and reduce harmonic distortion. The analysis includes the working principles, benefits compared to conventional rectifier technology, and the challenges of its implementation. The review results show that multi-pulse rectifiers significantly reduce Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), improve power quality, and facilitate integration with renewable energy sources. This article also suggests future research directions to address the limitations of current technology and to encourage further innovations in efficient and environmentally friendly EV charging.

Nanoporous Graphene with Encapsulated Multicomponent Carbide as High-Performance Binder-Free Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes.

Metal carbides are considered attractive lithium-ion battery (LIB) anode materials. Their potential practical application, however, still needs nanostructure optimization to further enhance the Li-storage capacity, especially under large current densities. Herein, a nanoporous structured multi-metal carbide is designed, which is encapsulated in a 3D free-standing nanotubular graphene film (MnNiCoFe-MoC@NG). This free-standing composite anode with a high surface area not only provides more active Li+ storage sites but also effectively prevents the agglomeration or detachment of active material in traditional powder-based electrodes. Moreover, the free-standing design does not require additional binders, conductive agents, or even current collectors when used as LIB anode. As a result, the MnNiCoFe-MoC@NG anode exhibits a high specific capacity of 1129.2 mAh g-1 at 2 A g-1 and maintains a stable capacity of 512.9 mAh g-1 after 2900 cycles of 5 A g-1, which is higher than most reported MoxC-based anodes. Furthermore, the anode exhibits superb low-temperature performance at both 0 and -20°C, especially at large current densities.These properties make the free-standing anode very promising in fast charging and low-temperature applications.

Enhanced Hot/Free Electron Effect for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Based on 3D/2D Graphene/MXene Composite.

Photocatalytic hydrogen production through water splitting represents a promising strategy to store solar energy as chemical energy. Current photocatalysts primarily focus on traditional semiconductor materials, such as metal oxides, sulfides, nitrides, g-C3N4, etc. However, these materials often suffer from large bandgap and fast charge recombination, which limit sunlight utilization and result in unsatisfactory photon conversion efficiency. Here, a novel 3D/2D graphene/MXene (3DGraphene/MXene) photocatalyst without metal semiconductor participant is designed, and an enhanced hot/free electron catalytic mechanism for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is proposed. The hot/free electrons, ejected out from 3DGraphene based on an Auger-like light induced electron emission mechanism and enhanced by the cocatalyst MXene Ti3C2Tx, exhibit exceptional catalytic activity under wide spectrum range from ultraviolet to visible light. The optimized 3DGraphene/MXene composite catalyst achieves an average hydrogen production rate of 1.4 mmolh-1gcat -1. Furthermore, consistent with the proposed hot/free electron emitting mechanism, the photocurrent rises with increasing the photon energy from visible to ultraviolet light and the light intensity under the same frequency range. These results indicate that using the hot electron generated from graphene and enhanced by other 2D materials might be an effective strategy for enhancing the activity of the photocatalytic materials for water splitting.

Geometric Design of Interface Structures and Electrolyte Solvation Chemistry for Fast Charging Lithium‐Ion Batteries

AbstractThe grain sizes of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and solvation structure of electrolytes can affect Li+ ion transport across SEI and control the desolvation kinetics of solvated Li+ ions during fast‐charging of Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, the impact of the geometric structure of SEI grains on the fast charging capability of LIBs is rarely examined. Here, the correlation between the SEI grain size and fast charging characteristics of cells is explored, and the desolvation kinetics is controlled by replacing the strongly binding ethylene carbonate (EC) solvent with a weakly binding nitrile‐based solvent under fast charging conditions. The evolution of small grains of SEI to provide sufficient paths for Li+ ion supply can be achieved by the modification of solvation structure in the electrolyte. Additionally, the less resistive SEI composition and low viscosity of isoBN‐containing electrolyte enable a more rapid charging of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2/graphite full cells by facilitating the SEI crossing of Li+ ions with less Li plating at a charging rate of 4 C at 25 °C. This work sheds light on solvation structure and interface engineering to enhance the fast charging cycle stability of LIBs for tailorable adoption in transportation sectors.

Improving the fast-charging capability of NbWO-based Li-ion batteries

The discovery of Nb-W-O materials years ago marks the milestone of charging a lithium-ion battery in minutes. Nevertheless, for many applications, charging lithium-ion battery within one minute is urgently demanded, the bottleneck of which largely lies in the lack of fundamental understanding of Li+ storage mechanisms in these materials. Herein, by visualizing Li+ intercalated into representative Nb16W5O55, we find that the fast-charging nature of such material originates from an interesting rate-dependent lattice relaxation process associated with the Jahn-Teller effect. Furthermore, in situ electron microscopy further reveals a directional, [010]-preferred Li+ transport mechanism in Nb16W5O55 crystals being the “bottleneck” toward fast charging that deprives the entry of any desolvated Li+ through the prevailing non-(010) surfaces. Hence, we propose a machine learning-assisted interface engineering strategy to swiftly collect desolvated Li+ and relocate them to (010) surfaces for their fast intercalation. As a result, a capacity of ≈ 116 mAh g−1 (68.5% of the theoretical capacity) at 80 C (45 s) is achieved when coupled with a Li negative electrode.

A Uniform Solid Electrolyte Interface Enabling Long Cycling in Sodium-Metal Batteries with Fast Charging.

The high reactivity of sodium leads to significant safety challenges, while the unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) further complicates its use in sodium-metal batteries (SMBs), collectively impeding their path to commercialization. A deep eutectic electrolyte (DEE) is introduced, which addresses these challenges by balancing high ionic conductivity with stable SEI formation. The introduction of N-methylacetamide enhances the nonflammability of the solvent and adjusts the SEI composition. The DEE accelerates the interfacial kinetics and promotes the formation of a uniform, inorganic-rich SEI with Na2S and NaF on the sodium anode. It also extends the electrochemical stability window to 4.8 V. Additionally, the DEE exhibits high ionic conductivity, enabling fast charging of the SMBs. In a Na3V2(PO4)3||Na cell, the electrolyte achieved a capacity retention of 96% after 1,500 cycles at a current density of 5 C. These findings offer important insights for advancing the commercialization of SMBs with enhanced safety features and superior electrochemical performance.

Synergistic Construction of Electrode-Electrolyte Interphases via Electrolyte Cosolvent and Additive Chemistry toward Ultrastable and Fast-Charging Li-Rich Batteries.

Lithium-rich manganese oxide (LRMO) is a promising high-energy-density material for high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, but its performance is hindered by interfacial side reactions, transition metal dissolution, and oxygen release. To address these issues, we propose a high-voltage electrolyte strategy that utilizes cosolvent and additive synergy to create stable dual interphases at both the cathode and anode. Specifically, lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) additive sacrificially decomposes to form a uniform yet stable cathode-electrolyte interphase (CEI) layer, while cosolvent of bis(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl) carbonate (BTFEC) effectively adjusts the solvation structure and synergistically stabilizes the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the anode, ultimately achieving ultrahigh cycle stability and fast-charging feasibility. The presence of B-F, LiBxOy species derived from LiDFOB exceptionally stabilizes the fast-ion-transfer CEI layer, while the F-rich robust SEI layer inhibits the irregular growth of lithium dendrites. Our electrolyte enables Li||LRMO cells to maintain 95% capacity after 200 cycles at 4.8 V, with a specific capacity of 238 mAh g-1 after 350 cycles at 3C. Importantly, a 5 Ah graphite||LRMO pouch cell achieves a high energy density of 323 Wh kg-1 with 80.4% capacity retention after 150 cycles, demonstrating its practical application potential.

Onset of Lithium Plating in Fast-Charging Li-Ion Batteries

Onset of Lithium Plating in Fast-Charging Li-Ion Batteries

Review on Recent Progress and Challenges in Laser‐Structuring of Electrodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries

AbstractThe traditional lithium‐ion battery (LIB) electrode has reached its limitations in terms of energy density and fast charging capabilities. To enable implementation in electric vehicles and other applications, 3D structuring is a method frequently proposed to allow for performance enhancement due to an increase in electrode surface area. Due to the decrease in lithium ion diffusion pathways, potential for application in thick electrodes exists, allowing further enhancement of energy density. Laser ablation is a promising manufacturing technique for the fabrication of 3D structured electrodes due to its ease of implementation in the existing electrode manufacturing process, as well as its flexibility and precision. This review details the main process parameters of the laser ablation process and their influence on the process efficiency and quality of generated structures. It further summarizes recent progress in finding the optimal electrode structure for both cathode and anode, and discusses the opinions on relative importance of cathode v. anode structuring. Lastly, current progress and challenges for the implementation in the battery manufacturing process are detailed, providing techniques for the upscaling and increase of belt speeds.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Use of Iron Photosensitizers for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells and Photoelectrosynthetic Cells Applications

ABSTRACTNovel renewable alternatives to meet the needs of our current energy landscape are highly sought after. Photovoltaic solar cells (PV) are considered leading candidates for carbon neutrality due to their numerous benefits and good solar‐to‐energy conversion efficiency. However, the need is no longer solely focused on electric current generation but also on strategies to store that energy. This led, amongst other technologies, to the development of dye‐sensitized photoelectrosynthesis cells (DSPECs), the successor of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). However, these cost‐effective solar cells mostly use photosensitizers based on scarce metals such as ruthenium. Iron‐based photosensitizers represent the holy grail due to their low toxicity, greater abundance, and versatile chemistry. However, they still suffer from drastic limitations: their photochemistry and extremely fast excited‐state deactivation processes lead to inefficient charge injection and/or fast charge recombination. This review gathers examples of iron‐based photosensitizers that have been successfully immobilized on metal oxide surfaces. A critical comparison of Fe‐based photosensitizers is made based on their photophysical properties, electrochemistry, and photovoltaic performances.

Formulating Electrophilic Electrolyte for In Situ Stabilization of 4.8 V Li-Rich Batteries with 100% Initial Coulombic Efficiency.

Lithium-rich layered oxide (LLO) cathodes are expected to overcome the energy density limitations, but their applicability is hindered by low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and unstable electrode-electrolyte interphases with sluggish kinetics. Here an elaborate electrophilic electrolyte is proposed that effectively stabilizes the surface lattice oxygen of the LLO cathode, facilitates the formation of dense and fast-ion-transport electrode-electrolyte interphases, and prevents Li-dendrites on the anode. The nucleophilic reaction mechanism driven by the electrolyte enables LLO to exhibit a reversible capacity of 310 mAh g-1 with a record ICE of 100%, as well as impressive 3C fast-charging stability, remarkably superior to that in the basic electrolyte. Using this engineered electrolyte, the assembled 4.5 Ah-class pouch cell of graphite||LLO displays high energy density and remarkable reversibility during cycling, demonstrating wide applicability. This work provides valuable insights and pragmatic strategies in electrolyte chemical engineering for advancing high-energy density and fast-charging batteries.

High sensitivity voltammetric sensor of 4-nitrotoluene based on nanoflake-rich boron-doped carbon nanowall electrode for water safety.

This study demonstrates a highly efficient electrochemical sensing platform for 4-nitrotoluene (4-NT) detection based on nanoflake-rich boron-doped carbon nanowall (NF-BCNW) electrodes. The electrodes, fabricated using a one-step deposition process, exhibit remarkable properties, including fast charge transfer and a developed surface area. The research shows the high efficiency of 4-NT detection in laboratory-grade aqueous samples, with a low detection limit (LOD) of 10.2nM and a high sensitivity of 10.42 ± 0.31 μA µM-1cm-2. The practical applicability of the 4-NT sensor was also tested in an environmental sample, tap water, resulting in an LOD of 20.5nM. The proposed electrode demonstrated considerable sensitivity for the sensing of 4-NT in the presence of various interfering ions and exhibited high stability over 380days. These findings position the NF-BCNW electrochemical sensor as an effective tool for water safety and environmental monitoring applications.

Integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems for Sustainable EV Charging Infrastructure

The transition to a low-carbon energy matrix has driven the electrification of vehicles (EVs), yet charging infrastructure—particularly fast direct current (DC) chargers—can negatively impact distribution networks. This study investigates the integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) with the power grid, focusing on the E-Lounge project in Brazil as a strategy to mitigate these impacts. The results demonstrated a 21-fold increase in charging sessions and an energy consumption growth from 0.6 MWh to 10.36 MWh between June 2023 and March 2024. Compared to previous findings, which indicated the need for more robust systems, the integration of a 100 kW/138 kWh BESS with DC fast chargers (60 kW) and AC chargers (22 kW) proved effective in reducing peak demand, optimizing energy management, and enhancing grid stability. These findings confirm the critical role of BESSs in establishing a sustainable EV charging infrastructure, demonstrating improvements in power quality and the mitigation of grid impacts. The results presented in this study stem from a project approved under the Research and Development program of the Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL) through strategic call No. 022/2018. This initiative aimed to develop a modular EV charging infrastructure for fleet vehicles in Brazil, ensuring minimal impact on the distribution network.

Fast Charge Separation by Direct Combination of Fullerene C60 with ZnO Quantum Dots and its Application in Ultraviolet Photodetectors

Fast Charge Separation by Direct Combination of Fullerene C60 with ZnO Quantum Dots and its Application in Ultraviolet Photodetectors