Stability Of Electrode Research Articles

Fabrication and Electrochemical Characterizations of Strip Ultramicroelectrode Array Prepared by Nanoskiving

Abstract Strip ultramicroelectrodes (SUE) have been widely used in micro-nano manufacturing, trace element detection, and energy storage. Preparation of SUE is thus the basis for these applications. A method for the preparation of SUE and its array (SUEA) is proposed based on a nanoskiving technique. The effects of embedding materials and storage methods on electrode stability were investigated. The continuous and stable working time of 120 minutes and the storage time of 92 h were achieved. Furthermore, the effect of nanowire feature dimensions on the electrochemical properties of the SUE was analyzed. Parameters such as steady-state limiting current and reversible electron transfer were evaluated. Compared to SUE, the SUEA exhibits a ten-fold increase in steady-state limiting current. The findings in this study provide an approach to obtain high-performance SUE, which will promote the practical application of SUE in micro/nano electrochemical detection.

Recent advances in high temperature solid oxide electrolysis cell for hydrogen production

ABSTRACT When renewable energy sources are coupled with high-temperature solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) that produce hydrogen, it seems like future energy sustainability is within reach. The ability to electrolyze water to make hydrogen and then reverse the process to generate electricity in a single solid oxide cell (SOC) device is particularly attractive for renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. The development of efficient, long-lasting, and economically viable SOEC technologies is hindered by the performance of critical materials, the stability and dependability of electrode and electrolyte materials under reversible electrolysis and fuel cell operating modes, and fuel cell operation modes. Due of their immaturity, SOEC pose both opportunities and challenges to the growing community of material scientists and system engineers studying electrochemical energy conversion and storage.

ZIF-67 derived N doped carbon embedded CoxP for superior hydrogen evolution

Abstract Developing a sustainable non-noble hybrid electrocatalyst for effective electrocatalysis is the most crucial task; particularly in sustainable hydrogen energy production in the realm of energy conversion. In this work, effective thermal pyrolysis process followed by phosphorization strategy was employed to prepare and fabricate ZIF-67 (Zeolitic imidazole) assisted Co2P/N doped carbon electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The optimized Co2P/N–C electrocatalyst exhibited hollow porous nanostructures as confirmed from the scanning electron microscopy. The achieved porous nanostructure improved the efficiency of the charge and mass transportation which is confirmed by the BET analysis, has high surface area value of 94.731 m2/g. In addition, a transition metal atom can regulate reactants adsorption and desorption capacity by modulating Co and P electronic configuration. The electrochemical studies of fabricated ZIF-67 derived Co2P/N–C electrode were analyzed using 1.0 M alkaline potassium hydroxide (KOH) medium in 3 electrode system process. Whilst, optimizing the pyrolysis temperature during the phosphorization will remarkably enhance the favourable characteristics of the hydrogen generation. Notably, the optimized ZIF-67 derived Co2P/NC at 350 °C electrode exhibited low overpotential (135 mV) at minimum 10 mA/cm2 and low 120.3 mV/dec Tafel slope. Besides, electrode stability at 10 mA/cm2 current density was verified by chronoamperometry test. Hence, this study furnishes the potential technique for the development of advanced hybrid MOF electrocatalyst as a successful alternative on large scale.

Strong Replaces Weak: ​Hydrogen Bond‐Anchored Electrolyte Enabling Ultra‐Stable and Wide‐Temperature Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Capacitors

Despite aqueous electrolytes offer a great opportunity for large‐scale energy storage owing to their safety and cost‐effectiveness, their practical application suffers from the parasitic side reactions and poor temperature adaptability stemming from weak hydrogen‐bond (HB) network in free water. Here, we propose the guiding thought “strong replaces weak” to design hydrogen bond‐anchored electrolyte by introducing sulfolane (SL) for disrupting the regular weak HB network and contributing to superior temperature tolerance. Judiciously combined experimental characterization and theoretical calculation confirm that SL can remodel the primary solvation shell of metal ions, customize stable electrode interface chemistry and restrain the side reactions. Consequently, symmetric supercapacitor constructed by activated carbon (AC) electrodes is able to fully work within a voltage range of 2.4 V and reach high capacitance retention of 89.8% after 60000 cycles. Additionally, Zn anodes exhibit ultra‐stable Zn plating/stripping behaviors and a wide temperature range (‐20 ~ 60 °C), and zinc‐ion capacitor (Zn//AC) also delivers an excellent cycling stability with capacity retention of 99.7% after 55000 cycles, implying that the designed electrolyte has practical application potential in extreme environments. This work proposes a novel critical solvation strategy that paves the route for the construction of ultra‐stable and wide‐temperature aqueous energy storage devices.

Strong Replaces Weak: ​Hydrogen Bond-Anchored Electrolyte Enabling Ultra-Stable and Wide-Temperature Aqueous Zinc-Ion Capacitors.

Despite aqueous electrolytes offer a great opportunity for large-scale energy storage owing to their safety and cost-effectiveness, their practical application suffers from the parasitic side reactions and poor temperature adaptability stemming from weak hydrogen-bond (HB) network in free water. Here, we propose the guiding thought "strong replaces weak" to design hydrogen bond-anchored electrolyte by introducing sulfolane (SL) for disrupting the regular weak HB network and contributing to superior temperature tolerance. Judiciously combined experimental characterization and theoretical calculation confirm that SL can remodel the primary solvation shell of metal ions, customize stable electrode interface chemistry and restrain the side reactions. Consequently, symmetric supercapacitor constructed by activated carbon (AC) electrodes is able to fully work within a voltage range of 2.4 V and reach high capacitance retention of 89.8% after 60000 cycles. Additionally, Zn anodes exhibit ultra-stable Zn plating/stripping behaviors and a wide temperature range (-20 ~ 60 °C), and zinc-ion capacitor (Zn//AC) also delivers an excellent cycling stability with capacity retention of 99.7% after 55000 cycles, implying that the designed electrolyte has practical application potential in extreme environments. This work proposes a novel critical solvation strategy that paves the route for the construction of ultra-stable and wide-temperature aqueous energy storage devices.

Plasma in Situ Reduction of GO: Used to Improve the Atmospheric Corrosion Stability of Ag Mesh Flexible Transparent Conductive Electrodes

Plasma in Situ Reduction of GO: Used to Improve the Atmospheric Corrosion Stability of Ag Mesh Flexible Transparent Conductive Electrodes

Preparation and Properties of Fe-Based Double Perovskite Oxide as Cathode Material for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

Double perovskite oxides with mixed ionic and electronic conductors (MIECs) have been widely investigated as cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Classical Fe-based double perovskites, due to their inherent low electronic and oxygen ionic conductivity, usually exhibit poor electrocatalytic activity. The existence of various valence states of B-site ions modifies the material’s catalytic activity, indicating the possibility of the partial substitution of Fe by higher-valence ions. LaBaFe2−xMoxO5+δ (x = 0, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, 0.1, LBFMx) is used as intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell (IT-SOFC) cathode materials. At a doping concentration above 0.1, the Mo substitution enhanced the cell volume, and the lattice expansion caused the formation of the impurity phase, BaMoO4. Compared with the parent material, Mo doping can regulate the oxygen vacancy concentration and accelerate the oxygen reduction reaction process to improve the electrochemical performance, as well as having a suitable coefficient of thermal expansion and excellent electrode stability. LaBaFe1.9Mo0.1O5+δ is a promising cathode material for IT-SOFC, which shows an excellent electrochemical performance, with this being demonstrated by having the lowest polarization resistance value of 0.017 Ω·cm2 at 800 °C, and the peak power density (PPD) of anode-supported single-cell LBFM0.1|CGO|NiO+CGO reaching 599 mW·cm−2.

Dual-Steric Hindrance Modulation of Interface Electrochemistry for Potassium-Ion Batteries.

Electrolyte chemistry regulation is a feasible and effective approach to achieving a stable electrode-electrolyte interface. How to realize such regulation and establish the relationship between the liquid-phase electrolyte environment and solid-phase electrode remains a significant challenge, especially in solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) for metal-ion batteries. In this work, solvent/anion steric hindrance is regarded as an essential factor in exploring the electrolyte chemistry regulation on forming ether-based K+-dominated SEI interface through the cross-combination strategy. Theoretical calculation and experimental evidence have successfully indicated a general principle that the combination of increasing solvent steric hindrance with decreasing anion steric hindrance indeed prompts the construction of an ideal anion-rich sheath solvation structure and guarantees the cycling stability of antimony-based alloy electrode (Sb@3DC, Sb nanoparticles anchored in three-dimensional carbon). These confirm the critical role of electrolyte modulation based on molecular design in the formation of stable solid-liquid interfaces, particularly in electrochemical energy storage systems.

Enhancing Battery Performance and Safety Through Nanomaterial Coatings

The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial for reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and combating climate change. Although EVs offer environmental and economic advantages, battery performance challenges such as electrode degradation and electrolyte decomposition hinder their widespread adoption. This paper investigates the use of nanomaterials in battery coatings and membranes to improve EV battery performance and lifespan. Conductive polymers like Polyaniline (PANI), carbon-based materials such as g-C₃N₄/CNTs, and α-Fe₂O₃@C are explored for their capacity to enhance electrode stability, electrical conductivity, and specific capacity. Additionally, the paper addresses how nanocoatings mitigate issues like electrode degradation, parasitic reactions, and thermal management, ultimately extending battery life and improving safety. By integrating nanotechnology, significant advancements in battery efficiency, longevity, and safety can be achieved, making EVs a more viable and sustainable transportation option. These developments are essential for achieving global carbon reduction goals and supporting a cleaner future.

Electronic Synergistic Effects on the Stability and Oxygen Evolution Reaction Efficiency of the Mesoporous LiMn2-xMxO4 (M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) Electrodes.

Stable porous manganese oxide-based electrodes are essential for clean energy generation and storage because of their high natural abundance and health safety. This investigation focuses on mesoporous LiMn2-xMxO4 (where M is Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu and x is 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.67) electrodes and thin/thick films. The mesoporous electrodes and films are fabricated by coating clear and homogeneous ethanol solutions of the salts (LiNO3, [Mn(OH2)4](NO3)2, and [M(OH2)x](NO3)2) and surfactants (P123 and CTAB) and calcining at elevated temperature (denoted as F-LiMn2-xMxO4, G-LiMn2-xMxO4, and meso-LiMn2-xMxO4, respectively). The electrochemical properties, stability, and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance of the F/G-LiMn2-xMxO4 electrodes are investigated in alkaline media using a three electrode setup. The F-LiMn1.33M0.67O4 electrodes (where M is Mn, Fe, Co, and Ni) exhibit low Tafel slopes of 60, 43, 44, and 32 mV/dec, respectively. While all the Mn-rich and F-LiMn2-xFexO4 electrodes degrade via Mn(VI) disproportionation reaction, the 33% Co electrode shows high stability during the OER. The nickel-based electrodes are stable with as little as 15% Ni and display excellent OER performance over 25% Ni, albeit undergoing a transformation that accumulates Ni(OH)2 species on the electrode surface. Copper in the F-LiMn2-xCuxO4 electrodes is homogeneous at low Cu percentages but forms a CuO phase above 15% Cu, undergoes degradation, and displays a weak OER performance. In short, Co and Ni stabilize the F-LiMn1.33Co0.67O4 and F-LiMn1.7Ni0.3O4 electrodes, which display excellent OER performance.

Polypyrrole-bound carbon nanotube conductive polysulfone membranes for self-cleaning of fouling

A novel conductive membrane, polypyrrole carbon nanotubes polysulfone (PPy-CNT-PSF), was successfully synthesized using the membrane phase infiltration in-situ polymerization method (MPIP). The resulting PPy-CNT-PSF, utilized as an anode in the electrochemical filtration reactor, exhibited a chain-like morphology of PPy extending from within to the exterior of the PSF membrane, effectively anchoring the CNT layer on its surface and establishing a stable conductive network with a surface resistance of 0.142 ± 0.052 kΩ/cm. Its electrical conductivity surpasses that of most conductive membranes derived from pyrrole (Py). Furthermore, the structural integrity of this conductive membrane remained intact following exposure to chlorine. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis revealed a subtle redox peak with no significant alteration in surface structure after 50 CV cycles. This reaction can be attributed to a Fenton-like reaction process due to Fe presence detected by EDX on the surface. Current-time curves under constant potential further confirmed that the PPy-CNT-PSF conductive membrane possesses both a stable conductive network and favorable electrode stability. Additionally, self-cleaning occurred when voltage was applied during electrochemical experiments utilizing a conductive membrane anode paired with a Ti cathode due to electrostatic repulsive forces. At an applied voltage of 20 V, removal efficiency and flux restoration achieved values of 97.63 % and 100 %, respectively. This straightforward yet effective approach is believed to hold promise for fabricating conductive membranes characterized by structural stability and electrode reliability for practical applications aimed at mitigating membrane fouling.

Utilizing electrooxidation for textile effluent wastewater treatment and simultaneous electrocatalytic hydrogen production: Transforming waste into energy and promoting water reuse in a circular economy context

Textile effluent wastewater poses a serious environmental risk because of its high concentration of pollutants, which include organic compounds, heavy metals, and dyes. The present study investigates the technical and economic feasibility of hybrid water electrolysis performances. Specifically, real textile effluent wastewater was utilised to examine simultaneous abatement and electrochemical hydrogen production. The treated water can be recycled in the textile mill, offering the benefits of trash-to-treasure and cost savings through the circular economy. In addition to reducing the environmental impact of textile wastewater, the synergistic approach seeks to maximise its potential for producing hydrogen as clean energy. Here, the commercially available stainless sheet was used as the anode in the electrochemical setup system and the two-dimensional Ti3C2TX MXene was used as the catalyst embedded cathode. The optimal electrode-electrolyte parameter settings resulted in an 83 % decrease in COD level and a degradation efficiency of about 88 %. The potential for widespread adoption in the textile industry is highlighted by the discussion of the economic viability and environmental advantages of using wastewater from textile effluents for pollutant degradation and hydrogen production. Hence, the energy estimation was looked at and estimated in order to evaluate the process viability. For instance, the hybrid electrolysis process uses a very small amount of electricity (0.825 kWh m−3 order−1) and has an apparent operating current (30 mA/cm2). This work could serve as a guide for the methodical assessment and choice of hybrid water electrolysis using actual wastewater. The electrode's recyclability and reuse were proven for possible commercial applications. The stability of the Ti3C2TX electrode over a wide pH range was investigated in order to produce hydrogen on a big scale at a reasonable cost.

Transparent Electrode‐Free Light‐Emitting Devices Exploiting Ion Transport‐Controlled Electrochemiluminescence

AbstractTransparent electrode‐free light‐emitting devices are presented that exploit electrochemiluminescence (ECL). These devices feature two side‐by‐side noble metal electrodes connected by an ECL active layer. The significance of bulk ion‐transport characteristics is investigated within the ECL active layer in producing uniform planar emission from the device. These characteristics can be enhanced by simply increasing the ECL active layer thickness or adding an ion gel electrolyte layer on top of the ECL active layer. The use of only electrochemically stable noble metal electrodes results in an operational lifetime exceeding 10 h, which is the longest lifetime reported for ECL‐based light‐emitting devices to date. The device structure based on ECL does not require transparent electrodes, allowing for increased flexibility when designing devices for future light‐emitting device applications.

Facile Synthesis of Highly Supercapacitive Mo‐doped Titanium Nanotube Arrays and Effect of Anodization Voltage

AbstractDesigning potential architectures by the modification of conventional electrode materials is an effective approach in the development of high performance supercapacitor electrodes. The present study investigated the effect of varying anodization voltages (50, 75, and 100 V) on the morphology and electrochemical properties of titanium nanotubes (TNT). Molybdenum was doped onto TNT using a simple hydrothermal procedure, followed by thermal treatment at 450 °C. The study effectively demonstrated control over the dimensions of the nanotube structure by adjusting the anodization voltage. Additionally, it was found that the tube diameters were increased due to etching during the hydrothermal treatment with the Mo precursor, which potentially enhanced the supercapacitive performance of Mo‐doped TNT. Further, structural analysis revealed that Mo doping improved both crystallinity and electrode stability. With an optimal anodization voltage of 100 V, TNT and Molybdenum‐doped TNT could exhibit capacitance value of 13.34 and 326.54 mF cm−2 respectively, at a current density of 1 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the electrode demonstrated good cyclic stability with 88% capacitance retention and 97% coulombic efficiency after 5000 cycles. An impressive energy density of 87.03 µWh cm−2 and a power density of 799.99 µW cm−2 could be achieved with this sample in an asymmetrical device.

Enhanced cycling stability of silicon electrode for lithium-ion batteries by dual hydrogen bonding mediated by carboxylated carbon nanotube

Enhanced cycling stability of silicon electrode for lithium-ion batteries by dual hydrogen bonding mediated by carboxylated carbon nanotube

Stacked borophene-based electric double-layer supercapacitors

As an exceptional metallic Dirac material, borophene shows promise for superior mechanical and electronic properties, making it increasingly significant in electronics. Both theoretical predictions and experimental evidence underscore its potential in energy storage applications. However, due to existing limitations in synthesis techniques, the application of stacked borophene as flexible electrodes remains unexplored. This study aims to overcome these challenges by introducing an innovative in situ co-eutectic salt method for synthesizing AB-stacked hydrogenated borophene sheets. These sheets are then employed to fabricate large-scale electrodes and construct flexible electric double-layer supercapacitors based on borophene. The robust mechanical stability of stacked borophene facilitates significant improvements in interfacial characteristics and energy storage performance through rolling processes. This enhancement results in increased specific capacity, improved rate performance, and enhanced cyclic stability of thin-film electrodes. Specifically, the optimized borophene-based supercapacitor achieves a high specific areal capacitance of up to 417.3 mF/cm2 in an organic electrolyte at a current density of 1 mA/cm2, which represents a twofold improvement compared to non-stacked borophene structures. Remarkably, it retains over 88.3 % of this specific areal capacitance even at a high current density of 15 mA/cm2, demonstrating impressive rate capability. Furthermore, after 5000 charge–discharge cycles, the capacitance retention exceeds 89.3 %. This research is expected to catalyse the application and advancement of borophene in future flexible and portable electronic devices, highlighting its potential transformative impact in energy storage technologies.

Transition metal-assisted layer-by-layer binder free deposition for high-performance energy storage devices

The increasing energy demands of the world necessitate the development of advanced energy storage systems. Hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs) have emerged as promising candidates, combining the high specific power density (PS) of supercapacitors (SCs) with the high specific energy density (ES) of batteries (BATs). However, its performance is dependent on the properties of electrode materials, which need enhancements in conductivity, surface area, and electrochemical stability. In this study, we utilized magnetron sputtering technique for exploring the potential of interface engineering to improve the electrochemical performance of tungsten disulfide (WS2) as a battery grade electrode material by incorporating chromium (Cr) and titanium (Ti) as an interfacial layer. This strategic modification significantly increased the conductivity, charge transfer efficiency, and structural stability of the WS2 electrode. Electrochemical experimentation in both half-cell and full-cell configurations revealed that the WS2/Cr and WS2/Ti electrode exhibits superior CS [2400 and 3800] F/g, respectively compared to pristine WS2. Fabricated WS2/Cr//AC and WS2/Ti//AC attained ES [95 and 117] Wh/kg and PS [6800 and 8500] W/kg, respectively. The outcomes from the electrochemical testing further demonstrated the superior cyclic stability of WS2/Cr//AC and WS2/Ti//AC with [96.5 and 98.3] % which shows that Cr and Ti as an interfacial layer not only mitigates the limitations of WS2 but also enables the devices to achieve higher performance metrics, underscoring the critical role of interface engineering in advancing HSCs technologies.

Polymerization of redox-active alizarin in biomass porous carbon with enhanced cycling stability for supercapacitor

Redox-active organic molecules have optimistic application prospects in energy storage due to their high theoretical capacitance, designable electrochemical activity and environmental friendliness. However, low conductivity and solubility in electrolyte severely hinder their redox activity. Here, alizarin molecules containing carbonyl and phenolic hydroxyl are encapsulated in biomass-derived porous carbon, and stable alizarin polymers are further grown on porous carbon substrate by electrochemical polymerization. Porous carbon as conductive network can improve electron transport properties, and provide suitable accommodation environment for confinement and polymerization of alizarin. The electrochemical polymerization strategy on carbon substrate allows alizarin to be connected by rigid C-O-C bond, which inhibits the dissolution of organic monomers while maintaining redox activity. The optimized polyalizarin/porous carbon composite (PAZ/PC-0.5) exhibits superior charge storage performance, with a specific capacitance of 355.8 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and 220.8 F g−1 at high current density of 30 A g−1. Moreover, PAZ/PC electrode has more durable long-term charge-discharge stability (capacitance retention is 98 % after 10,000 charge and discharge cycles). The assembled symmetrical supercapacitor exhibits excellent energy-power characteristics (21.4 Wh kg−1 at 700 W kg−1) and durable cycle stability. This work sheds light on the design of stable organic electrode towards high-performance supercapacitor.

Carbon nanoarchitecture encapsulated highly dispersed ultrafine Ag particles composite anode for high-capacity desalination

The high capacity of silver (Ag) anodes positions them as a promising avenue for addressing pressing water purification challenges through capacitive deionization (CDI). However, it faces significant challenges such as severe volume expansion and particle crushing, leading to rapid electrochemical failure. Herein, hierarchical hybrid structures comprising highly dispersed ultrafine Ag anchored in carbon nanolayers were prepared using a temperature-mediated strategy. The coordination effect of organic precursors reduces the surface energy of Ag nanoparticles, effectively preventing aggregation during heat treatment. Carbon layer encapsulation synergized with particle size control effectively suppresses the absolute volumetric strain of the electrode in the electrochemical reaction, enhancing electrochemical stability. When used as a CDI anode, AgNC-500 demonstrated an excellent Cl- capturing capacity of 159.96 mg g-1 and a rate of 27.53 mg g−1 min−1. Furthermore, the capacity exhibited excellent stability with negligible degradation over 50 cycles. This study offers crucial insights for advancing the development of highly stable conversion electrodes.

External ligand-free nickel-catalyzed synthesis of polypyrazines towards stable, high-capacity and low-potential sodium ion storage

Sodium ion batteries (SIBs) have been regarded as a promising alternative to lithium-ion battery owing to low cost and good sustainability, but its competitiveness in energy storage is still limited largely by the development of suitable electrode materials. Traditional inorganic anode materials for SIBs face the problems of sluggish electrochemical kinetics and large volume strain due to the insertion/extraction of large size Na+. By comparison, organic anodes have the advantages of abundance resources, renewability, and designability, but suffer from the lack of stable electrode materials with both high specific capacity and low redox potential. Here, a class of pyrazine rings-rich organic polymers (polypyrazines) were designed and synthesized through external ligand-free nickel-catalyzed carbon–carbon coupling reactions. Among them, poly(2,6-pyrazine) shows the lowest synthetic cost, the highest porosity and the best conductivity. Consequently, as the anode of SIBs, poly(2,6-pyrazine) delivers a low redox potential (about 1 V, vs Na+/Na), high-specific-capacity (617.2 mA h/g at 0.1 A/g), excellent rate-capability (300 mA h/g at 10 A/g) and long-term cycling stability (81 % after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A/g). The low preparation cost and outstanding electrochemical performance of poly(2,6-pyrazine) make it a promising anode candidate for further boosting the energy density of SIBs.