Nanostructured Electrodes for High-Performance Supercapacitors and Batteries

A special issue of Nanomaterials (ISSN 2079-4991). This special issue belongs to the section "Energy and Catalysis".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2023) | Viewed by 43103

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Special Issue Editor

School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenyang University of Technology, Shenyang 110870, China
Interests: supercapacitor; metal ion battery; electrocatalyst; photocatalyst; energy storage and conversion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Technologies concerning renewable energy and green environments have received extensive attention in the past few decades. Energy storage has been one of the hottest research fields for more than half a century. Recently, low dimensional nanostructured materials have been intensely investigated, featuring their fascinating properties and performance in energy storage field. Great efforts have been devoted to studying their synthesis strategies, unique properties, and potential applications in various electrochemical devices. Nevertheless, challenges still exist and more energy devices are still highly demanded for actual applications. At the same time, the ever-increasing demand for alternative energy strategies to fossil fuels/electrochemical cells has motivated considerable efforts to develop novel and renewable energy storage systems. Considering the synergetic effects between different components, hybrid nanomaterials may exhibit dramatically enhanced performance compared to their single components. A collective demonstration that more energy can be generated, converted, transported, and stored by applying new materials is of great importance in both scientific research and practical applications. It is therefore urgent and significant to have a Special Issue to appreciate new advances and to review recent progresses regarding nanostructured electrodes for high-performance supercapacitors and batteries. We are pleased to invite you submit a high-quality research paper or review to this Special Issue

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

  1. Theoretical and experimental design of electrodes for supercapacitors and ion batteries (Na, K, Zn, Al, Ca, Mg, et al.);
  2. The kinetic/capacity matching methods and coupling mechanisms between cathodes and anodes;
  3. Policy and perspectives in energy;
  4. Devices with multifunctionality;
  5. Wearable energy storage systems.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Xiang Wu
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • supercapacitor
  • metal ion battery
  • cathode
  • anode
  • energy storage device
  • electrode material
  • multivalence battery

Published Papers (22 papers)

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Editorial

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4 pages, 192 KiB  
Editorial
Nanostructured Electrodes for High-Performance Supercapacitors and Batteries
by Xiang Wu
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(20), 2807; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13202807 - 23 Oct 2023
Viewed by 634
Abstract
Emerging renewable energy sources have received extensive attention in the past few decades [...] Full article

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

10 pages, 3162 KiB  
Article
Effect of Mechanical Vibration on the Durability of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
by Sitong Chen, Xueke Wang and Tong Zhu
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(15), 2191; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13152191 - 27 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 870
Abstract
To study the durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), the experiments were performed by using a 300 h accelerated stress test under vibration and non-vibration conditions. Before and after chronic operation, the polarization curve, impedance spectra and cyclic voltammogram were measured [...] Read more.
To study the durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), the experiments were performed by using a 300 h accelerated stress test under vibration and non-vibration conditions. Before and after chronic operation, the polarization curve, impedance spectra and cyclic voltammogram were measured at regular intervals. The voltage under vibration shows a small decline at the current density of 400 mA cm−2 and decreases quickly along the time in high current density. Meanwhile, the pavement vibration dramatically impacts the contact resistance of the membrane electrode assembly to the bipolar plates and the clamping screws of the fuel cell easily loosen under vibration. The calculations from X-ray diffraction patterns indicate that the average diameters of Pt particles under vibration are smaller than those under no-vibration conditions. It increases from 3.17 nm in the pristine state to 3.43 nm and 4.62 nm, respectively. Moreover, much more platinum that dissolved from the catalyst layer and redeposited was detected inside the polymer membrane under vibration conditions. Full article
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13 pages, 5315 KiB  
Article
Hollow Porous CoO@Reduced Graphene Oxide Self-Supporting Flexible Membrane for High Performance Lithium-Ion Storage
by Junxuan Zhang, Jie You, Qing Wei, Jeong-In Han and Zhiming Liu
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(13), 1986; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13131986 - 30 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1035
Abstract
We report an environment-friendly preparation method of rGO-based flexible self-supporting membrane electrodes, combining Co-MOF with graphene oxide and quickly preparing a hollow CoO@rGO flexible self-supporting membrane composite with a porous structure. This unique hollow porous structure can shorten the ion transport path and [...] Read more.
We report an environment-friendly preparation method of rGO-based flexible self-supporting membrane electrodes, combining Co-MOF with graphene oxide and quickly preparing a hollow CoO@rGO flexible self-supporting membrane composite with a porous structure. This unique hollow porous structure can shorten the ion transport path and provide more active sites for lithium ions. The high conductivity of reduced graphene oxide further facilitates the rapid charge transfer and provides sufficient buffer space for the hollow Co-MOF nanocubes during the charging process. We evaluated its electrochemical performance in a coin cell, which showed good rate capability and cycling stability. The CoO@rGO flexible electrode maintains a high specific capacity of 1103 mAh g−1 after 600 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. The high capacity of prepared material is attributed to the synergistic effect of the hollow porous structure and the 3D reduced graphene oxide network. This would be considered a promising new strategy for synthesizing hollow porous-structured rGO-based self-supported flexible electrodes. Full article
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13 pages, 5228 KiB  
Article
Facile Synthesis of Battery-Type CuMn2O4 Nanosheet Arrays on Ni Foam as an Efficient Binder-Free Electrode Material for High-Rate Supercapacitors
by Chandu V. V. Muralee Gopi, R. Ramesh, Rajangam Vinodh, Salem Alzahmi and Ihab M. Obaidat
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(6), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13061125 - 21 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1796
Abstract
The development of battery-type electrode materials with hierarchical nanostructures has recently gained considerable attention in high-rate hybrid supercapacitors. For the first time, in the present study novel hierarchical CuMn2O4 nanosheet arrays (NSAs) nanostructures are developed using a one-step hydrothermal route [...] Read more.
The development of battery-type electrode materials with hierarchical nanostructures has recently gained considerable attention in high-rate hybrid supercapacitors. For the first time, in the present study novel hierarchical CuMn2O4 nanosheet arrays (NSAs) nanostructures are developed using a one-step hydrothermal route on a nickel foam substrate and utilized as an enhanced battery-type electrode material for supercapacitors without the need of binders or conducting polymer additives. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques are used to study the phase, structural, and morphological characteristics of the CuMn2O4 electrode. SEM and TEM studies show that CuMn2O4 exhibits a nanosheet array morphology. According to the electrochemical data, CuMn2O4 NSAs give a Faradic battery-type redox activity that differs from the behavior of carbon-related materials (such as activated carbon, reduced graphene oxide, graphene, etc.). The battery-type CuMn2O4 NSAs electrode showed an excellent specific capacity of 125.56 mA h g−1 at 1 A g−1 with a remarkable rate capability of 84.1%, superb cycling stability of 92.15% over 5000 cycles, good mechanical stability and flexibility, and low internal resistance at the interface of electrode and electrolyte. Due to their excellent electrochemical properties, high-performance CuMn2O4 NSAs-like structures are prospective battery-type electrodes for high-rate supercapacitors. Full article
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11 pages, 2152 KiB  
Article
Chemical Vapor Transport Synthesis of Fibrous Red Phosphorus Crystal as Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
by Lei Liu, Xing Gao, Xuemei Cui, Bofeng Wang, Fangzheng Hu, Tianheng Yuan, Jianhua Li, Lei Zu, Huiqin Lian and Xiuguo Cui
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(6), 1060; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13061060 - 15 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1414
Abstract
Red phosphorus (RP) is considered to be the most promising anode material for lithium-Ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical specific capacity and suitable voltage platform. However, its poor electrical conductivity (10−12 S/m) and the large volume changes that accompany the [...] Read more.
Red phosphorus (RP) is considered to be the most promising anode material for lithium-Ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical specific capacity and suitable voltage platform. However, its poor electrical conductivity (10−12 S/m) and the large volume changes that accompany the cycling process severely limit its practical application. Herein, we have prepared fibrous red phosphorus (FP) that possesses better electrical conductivity (10−4 S/m) and a special structure by chemical vapor transport (CVT) to improve electrochemical performance as an anode material for LIBs. Compounding it with graphite (C) by a simple ball milling method, the composite material (FP-C) shows a high reversible specific capacity of 1621 mAh/g, excellent high-rate performance and long cycle life with a capacity of 742.4 mAh/g after 700 cycles at a high current density of 2 A/g, and coulombic efficiencies reaching almost 100% for each cycle. Full article
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15 pages, 3874 KiB  
Article
Boosting the Initial Coulomb Efficiency of Sisal Fiber-Derived Carbon Anode for Sodium Ion Batteries by Microstructure Controlling
by Yuan Luo, Yaya Xu, Xuenuan Li, Kaiyou Zhang, Qi Pang and Aimiao Qin
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(5), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13050881 - 26 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1707
Abstract
As anode material for sodium ion batteries (SIBs), biomass-derived hard carbon has attracted a great deal of attention from researchers because of its renewable nature and low cost. However, its application is greatly limited due to its low initial Coulomb efficiency (ICE). In [...] Read more.
As anode material for sodium ion batteries (SIBs), biomass-derived hard carbon has attracted a great deal of attention from researchers because of its renewable nature and low cost. However, its application is greatly limited due to its low initial Coulomb efficiency (ICE). In this work, we employed a simple two-step method to prepare three different structures of hard carbon materials from sisal fibers and explored the structural effects on the ICE. It was determined that the obtained carbon material, with hollow and tubular structure (TSFC), exhibits the best electrochemical performance, with a high ICE of 76.7%, possessing a large layer spacing, a moderate specific surface area, and a hierarchical porous structure. In order to better understand the sodium storage behavior in this special structural material, exhaustive testing was performed. Combining the experimental and theoretical results, an “adsorption-intercalation” model for the sodium storage mechanism of the TSFC is proposed. Full article
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14 pages, 4167 KiB  
Article
Influence of the Composition and Testing Modes on the Electrochemical Performance of Li-Rich Cathode Materials
by Lidia Pechen, Elena Makhonina, Anna Medvedeva, Yury Politov, Aleksander Rumyantsev, Yury Koshtyal, Alexander Goloveshkin and Igor Eremenko
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(22), 4054; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12224054 - 17 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1130
Abstract
Li-rich oxides are promising cathode materials for Li-ion batteries. In this work, a number of different compositions of Li-rich materials and various electrochemical testing modes were investigated. The structure, chemical composition, and morphology of the materials synthesized were studied by XRD with Rietveld [...] Read more.
Li-rich oxides are promising cathode materials for Li-ion batteries. In this work, a number of different compositions of Li-rich materials and various electrochemical testing modes were investigated. The structure, chemical composition, and morphology of the materials synthesized were studied by XRD with Rietveld refinement, ICP-OES, and SEM. The particle size distributions were determined by a laser analyzer. The galvanostatic intermittent titration technique and galvanostatic cycling with different potential limits at various current densities were used to study the materials. The electrochemical study showed that gradual increase in the upper voltage limit (formation cycles) was needed to improve further cycling of the cathode materials under study. A comparison of the data obtained in different voltage ranges showed that a lower cut-off potential of 2.5 V (2.5–4.7 V range) was required for a good cyclability with a high discharge capacity. An increase in the low cut-off potential to 3.0 V (3.0–4.8 V voltage range) did not improve the electrochemical performance of the oxides and, on the contrary, considerably decreased the discharge capacity and increased the capacity fade. The LMR35 cathode material (Li1.149Ni0.184Mn0.482Co0.184O2) demonstrated the best functional properties among all the compositions studied. Full article
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14 pages, 5006 KiB  
Article
Graphene-Modified Co-B-P Catalysts for Hydrogen Generation from Sodium Borohydride Hydrolysis
by Xinlei Jia, Zhen Sang, Lixian Sun, Fen Xu, Hongge Pan, Chenchen Zhang, Riguang Cheng, Yuqian Yu, Haopan Hu, Li Kang and Yiting Bu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(16), 2732; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12162732 - 09 Aug 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1701
Abstract
Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) is considered a good candidate for hydrogen generation from hydrolysis because of its high hydrogen storage capacity (10.8 wt%) and environmentally friendly hydrolysis products. However, due to its sluggish hydrogen generation (HG) rate in the water, it usually [...] Read more.
Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) is considered a good candidate for hydrogen generation from hydrolysis because of its high hydrogen storage capacity (10.8 wt%) and environmentally friendly hydrolysis products. However, due to its sluggish hydrogen generation (HG) rate in the water, it usually needs an efficient catalyst to enhance the HG rate. In this work, graphene oxide (GO)-modified Co-B-P catalysts were obtained using a chemical in situ reduction method. The structure and composition of the as-prepared catalysts were characterized, and the catalytic performance for NaBH4 hydrolysis was measured as well. The results show that the as-prepared catalyst with a GO content of 75 mg (Co-B-P/75rGO) exhibited an optimal catalytic efficiency with an HG rate of 12087.8 mL min−1 g−1 at 25 °C, far better than majority of the findings that have been reported. The catalyst had a good stability with 88.9% of the initial catalytic efficiency following 10 cycles. In addition, Co-, B-, and P-modified graphene showed a synergistic effect improving the kinetics and thermodynamics of NaBH4 hydrolysis with a lower activation energy of 28.64 kJ mol−1. These results reveal that the GO-modified Co-B-P catalyst has good potential for borohydride hydrolysis applications. Full article
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12 pages, 4346 KiB  
Article
Bimetallic Pt-Ni Nanoparticles Confined in Porous Titanium Oxide Cage for Hydrogen Generation from NaBH4 Hydrolysis
by Yuqian Yu, Li Kang, Lixian Sun, Fen Xu, Hongge Pan, Zhen Sang, Chenchen Zhang, Xinlei Jia, Qingli Sui, Yiting Bu, Dan Cai, Yongpeng Xia, Kexiang Zhang and Bin Li
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(15), 2550; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12152550 - 25 Jul 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1591
Abstract
Sodium borohydride (NaBH4), with a high theoretical hydrogen content (10.8 wt%) and safe characteristics, has been widely employed to produce hydrogen based on hydrolysis reactions. In this work, a porous titanium oxide cage (PTOC) has been synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal [...] Read more.
Sodium borohydride (NaBH4), with a high theoretical hydrogen content (10.8 wt%) and safe characteristics, has been widely employed to produce hydrogen based on hydrolysis reactions. In this work, a porous titanium oxide cage (PTOC) has been synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method using NH2-MIL-125 as the template and L-alanine as the coordination agent. Due to the evenly distributed PtNi alloy particles with more catalytically active sites, and the synergistic effect between the PTOC and PtNi alloy particles, the PtNi/PTOC catalyst presents a high hydrogen generation rate (10,164.3 mL∙min−1∙g−1) and low activation energy (28.7 kJ∙mol−1). Furthermore, the robust porous structure of PTOC effectively suppresses the agglomeration issue; thus, the PtNi/PTOC catalyst retains 87.8% of the initial catalytic activity after eight cycles. These results indicate that the PtNi/PTOC catalyst has broad applications for the hydrolysis of borohydride. Full article
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9 pages, 2358 KiB  
Article
Micro/Nano Energy Storage Devices Based on Composite Electrode Materials
by Yanqi Niu, Deyong Shang and Zhanping Li
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(13), 2202; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12132202 - 27 Jun 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1356
Abstract
It is vital to improve the electrochemical performance of negative materials for energy storage devices. The synergistic effect between the composites can improve the total performance. In this work, we prepare α-Fe2O3@MnO2 on carbon cloth through hydrothermal strategies [...] Read more.
It is vital to improve the electrochemical performance of negative materials for energy storage devices. The synergistic effect between the composites can improve the total performance. In this work, we prepare α-Fe2O3@MnO2 on carbon cloth through hydrothermal strategies and subsequent electrochemical deposition. The α-Fe2O3@MnO2 hybrid structure benefits electron transfer efficiency and avoids the rapid decay of capacitance caused by volume expansion. The specific capacitance of the as-obtained product is 615 mF cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2. Moreover, a flexible supercapacitor presents an energy density of 0.102 mWh cm−3 at 4.2 W cm−2. Bending tests of the device at different angles show excellent mechanical flexibility. Full article
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14 pages, 4158 KiB  
Article
Organic Crosslinked Polymer-Derived N/O-Doped Porous Carbons for High-Performance Supercapacitor
by Jianhao Lao, Yao Lu, Songwen Fang, Fen Xu, Lixian Sun, Yu Wang, Tianhao Zhou, Lumin Liao, Yanxun Guan, Xueying Wei, Chenchen Zhang, Yukai Yang, Yongpeng Xia, Yumei Luo, Yongjin Zou, Hailiang Chu, Huanzhi Zhang, Yong Luo and Yanling Zhu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(13), 2186; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12132186 - 25 Jun 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1620
Abstract
Supercapacitors, as a new type of green electrical energy storage device, are a potential solution to environmental problems created by economic development and the excessive use of fossil energy resources. In this work, nitrogen/oxygen (N/O)-doped porous carbon materials for high-performance supercapacitors are fabricated [...] Read more.
Supercapacitors, as a new type of green electrical energy storage device, are a potential solution to environmental problems created by economic development and the excessive use of fossil energy resources. In this work, nitrogen/oxygen (N/O)-doped porous carbon materials for high-performance supercapacitors are fabricated by calcining and activating an organic crosslinked polymer prepared using polyethylene glycol, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and 4,4-diphenylmethane diisocyanate. The porous carbon exhibits a large specific surface area (1589 m2·g−1) and high electrochemical performance, thanks to the network structure and rich N/O content in the organic crosslinked polymer. The optimized porous carbon material (COCLP-4.5), obtained by adjusting the raw material ratio of the organic crosslinked polymer, exhibits a high specific capacitance (522 F·g−1 at 0.5 A·g−1), good rate capability (319 F·g−1 at 20 A·g−1), and outstanding stability (83% retention after 5000 cycles) in a three-electrode system. Furthermore, an energy density of 18.04 Wh·kg−1 is obtained at a power density of 200.0 W·kg−1 in a two-electrode system. This study demonstrates that organic crosslinked polymer-derived porous carbon electrode materials have good energy storage potential. Full article
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8 pages, 1923 KiB  
Article
First-Principles Study of n*AlN/n*ScN Superlattices with High Dielectric Capacity for Energy Storage
by Wei-Chao Zhang, Hao Wu, Wei-Feng Sun and Zhen-Peng Zhang
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(12), 1966; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12121966 - 08 Jun 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1437
Abstract
As a paradigm of exploiting electronic-structure engineering on semiconductor superlattices to develop advanced dielectric film materials with high electrical energy storage, the n*AlN/n*ScN superlattices are systematically investigated by first-principles calculations of structural stability, band structure and dielectric polarizability. Electrical energy storage density is [...] Read more.
As a paradigm of exploiting electronic-structure engineering on semiconductor superlattices to develop advanced dielectric film materials with high electrical energy storage, the n*AlN/n*ScN superlattices are systematically investigated by first-principles calculations of structural stability, band structure and dielectric polarizability. Electrical energy storage density is evaluated by dielectric permittivity under a high electric field approaching the uppermost critical value determined by a superlattice band gap, which hinges on the constituent layer thickness and crystallographic orientation of superlattices. It is demonstrated that the constituent layer thickness as indicated by larger n and superlattice orientations as in (111) crystallographic plane can be effectively exploited to modify dielectric permittivity and band gap, respectively, and thus promote energy density of electric capacitors. Simultaneously increasing the thicknesses of individual constituent layers maintains adequate band gaps while slightly reducing dielectric polarizability from electronic localization of valence band-edge in ScN constituent layers. The AlN/ScN superlattices oriented in the wurtzite (111) plane acquire higher dielectric energy density due to the significant improvement in electronic band gaps. The present study renders a framework for modifying the band gap and dielectric properties to acquire high energy storage in semiconductor superlattices. Full article
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12 pages, 7477 KiB  
Article
Sophisticated Structural Tuning of NiMoO4@MnCo2O4 Nanomaterials for High Performance Hybrid Capacitors
by Yifei Di, Jun Xiang, Nan Bu, Sroeurb Loy, Wenduo Yang, Rongda Zhao, Fufa Wu, Xiaobang Sun and Zhihui Wu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1674; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12101674 - 14 May 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1862
Abstract
NiMoO4 is an excellent candidate for supercapacitor electrodes, but poor cycle life, low electrical conductivity, and small practical capacitance limit its further development. Therefore, in this paper, we fabricate NiMoO4@MnCo2O4 composites based on a two-step hydrothermal method. [...] Read more.
NiMoO4 is an excellent candidate for supercapacitor electrodes, but poor cycle life, low electrical conductivity, and small practical capacitance limit its further development. Therefore, in this paper, we fabricate NiMoO4@MnCo2O4 composites based on a two-step hydrothermal method. As a supercapacitor electrode, the sample can reach 3000 mF/cm2 at 1 mA/cm2. The asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC), NiMoO4@MnCo2O4//AC, can be constructed with activated carbon (AC) as the negative electrode, the device can reach a maximum energy density of 90.89 mWh/cm3 at a power density of 3726.7 mW/cm3 and the capacitance retention can achieve 78.4% after 10,000 cycles. Full article
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13 pages, 2838 KiB  
Article
A Flexible TENG Based on Micro-Structure Film for Speed Skating Techniques Monitoring and Biomechanical Energy Harvesting
by Zhuo Lu, Changjun Jia, Xu Yang, Yongsheng Zhu, Fengxin Sun, Tianming Zhao, Shouwei Zhang and Yupeng Mao
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(9), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12091576 - 06 May 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2437
Abstract
Wearable motion-monitoring systems have been widely used in recent years. However, the battery energy storage problem of traditional wearable devices limits the development of human sports training applications. In this paper, a self-powered and portable micro-structure triboelectric nanogenerator (MS-TENG) has been made. It [...] Read more.
Wearable motion-monitoring systems have been widely used in recent years. However, the battery energy storage problem of traditional wearable devices limits the development of human sports training applications. In this paper, a self-powered and portable micro-structure triboelectric nanogenerator (MS-TENG) has been made. It consists of micro-structure polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) film, and lithium chloride polyacrylamide (LiCl-PAAM) hydrogel. Through the micro-structure, the voltage of the MS-TENG can be improved by 7 times. The MS-TENG provides outstanding sensing properties: maximum output voltage of 74 V, angular sensitivity of 1.016 V/degree, high signal-to-noise ratio, and excellent long-term service stability. We used it to monitor the running skills of speed skaters. It can also store the biomechanical energy which is generated in the process of speed skating through capacitors. It demonstrates capability of sensor to power electronic calculator and electronic watch. In addition, as a flexible electrode hydrogel, it can readily stretch over 1300%, which can help improve the service life and work stability of MS-TENG. Therefore, MS-TENG has great application potential in human sports training monitoring and big data analysis. Full article
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12 pages, 4038 KiB  
Article
Zinc-Ion Storage Mechanism of Polyaniline for Rechargeable Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
by Jiangfeng Gong, Hao Li, Kaixiao Zhang, Zhupeng Zhang, Jie Cao, Zhibin Shao, Chunmei Tang, Shaojie Fu, Qianjin Wang and Xiang Wu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(9), 1438; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12091438 - 23 Apr 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3445
Abstract
Aqueous multivalent ion batteries, especially aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), have promising energy storage application due to their unique merits of safety, high ionic conductivity, and high gravimetric energy density. To improve their electrochemical performance, polyaniline (PANI) is often chosen to suppress cathode dissolution. [...] Read more.
Aqueous multivalent ion batteries, especially aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), have promising energy storage application due to their unique merits of safety, high ionic conductivity, and high gravimetric energy density. To improve their electrochemical performance, polyaniline (PANI) is often chosen to suppress cathode dissolution. Herein, this work focuses on the zinc ion storage behavior of a PANI cathode. The energy storage mechanism of PANI is associated with four types of protonated/non-protonated amine or imine. The PANI cathode achieves a high capacity of 74 mAh g−1 at 0.3 A g−1 and maintains 48.4% of its initial discharge capacity after 1000 cycles. It also demonstrates an ultrahigh diffusion coefficient of 6.25 × 10−9~7.82 × 10−8 cm−2 s−1 during discharging and 7.69 × 10−10~1.81 × 10−7 cm−2 s−1 during charging processes, which is one or two orders of magnitude higher than other reported studies. This work sheds a light on developing PANI-composited cathodes in rechargeable aqueous ZIBs energy storage devices. Full article
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12 pages, 3495 KiB  
Article
Temperature-Dependent Fractional Dynamics in Pseudo-Capacitors with Carbon Nanotube Array/Polyaniline Electrodes
by Igor O. Yavtushenko, Marat Yu. Makhmud-Akhunov, Renat T. Sibatov, Evgeny P. Kitsyuk and Vyacheslav V. Svetukhin
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(5), 739; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12050739 - 22 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1430
Abstract
Pseudo-capacitors with electrodes based on polyaniline and vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes (PANI/VA-MWCNT) composite are studied. Fractional differential models of supercapacitors are briefly discussed. The appropriate fractional circuit model for PANI/MWCNT pseudo-capacitors is found to be a linearized version of the recently proposed [...] Read more.
Pseudo-capacitors with electrodes based on polyaniline and vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes (PANI/VA-MWCNT) composite are studied. Fractional differential models of supercapacitors are briefly discussed. The appropriate fractional circuit model for PANI/MWCNT pseudo-capacitors is found to be a linearized version of the recently proposed phase-field diffusion model based on the fractional Cahn–Hilliard equation. The temperature dependencies of the model parameters are determined by means of impedance spectroscopy. The fractional-order α is weakly sensitive to temperature, and the fractional dynamic behavior is related to the pore morphology rather than to thermally activated ion-hopping in PANI/MWCNT composite. Full article
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11 pages, 4314 KiB  
Article
Improvement of Lithium Storage Performance of Silica Anode by Using Ketjen Black as Functional Conductive Agent
by Guobin Hu, Xiaohui Sun, Huigen Liu, Yaya Xu, Lei Liao, Donglei Guo, Xianming Liu and Aimiao Qin
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(4), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12040692 - 19 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1773
Abstract
In this paper, SiO2 aerogels were prepared by a sol–gel method. Using Ketjen Black (KB), Super P (SP) and Acetylene Black (AB) as a conductive agent, respectively, the effects of the structure and morphology of the three conductive agents on the electrochemical [...] Read more.
In this paper, SiO2 aerogels were prepared by a sol–gel method. Using Ketjen Black (KB), Super P (SP) and Acetylene Black (AB) as a conductive agent, respectively, the effects of the structure and morphology of the three conductive agents on the electrochemical performance of SiO2 gel anode were systematically investigated and compared. The results show that KB provides far better cycling and rate performance than SP and AB for SiO2 anode electrodes, with a reversible specific capacity of 351.4 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 200 cycles and a stable 311.7 mA h g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 after 500 cycles. The enhanced mechanism of the lithium storage performance of SiO2-KB anode was also proposed. Full article
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14 pages, 4490 KiB  
Article
Sea Urchin-like Si@MnO2@rGO as Anodes for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
by Jiajun Liu, Meng Wang, Qi Wang, Xishan Zhao, Yutong Song, Tianming Zhao and Jing Sun
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(2), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12020285 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2864
Abstract
Si is a promising material for applications as a high-capacity anode material of lithium-ion batteries. However, volume expansion, poor electrical conductivity, and a short cycle life during the charging/discharging process limit the commercial use. In this paper, new ternary composites of sea urchin-like [...] Read more.
Si is a promising material for applications as a high-capacity anode material of lithium-ion batteries. However, volume expansion, poor electrical conductivity, and a short cycle life during the charging/discharging process limit the commercial use. In this paper, new ternary composites of sea urchin-like Si@MnO2@reduced graphene oxide (rGO) prepared by a simple, low-cost chemical method are presented. These can effectively reduce the volume change of Si, extend the cycle life, and increase the lithium-ion battery capacity due to the dual protection of MnO2 and rGO. The sea urchin-like Si@MnO2@rGO anode shows a discharge specific capacity of 1282.72 mAh g−1 under a test current of 1 A g−1 after 1000 cycles and excellent chemical performance at different current densities. Moreover, the volume expansion of sea urchin-like Si@MnO2@rGO anode material is ~50% after 150 cycles, which is much less than the volume expansion of Si (300%). This anode material is economical and environmentally friendly and this work made efforts to develop efficient methods to store clean energy and achieve carbon neutrality. Full article
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Review

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32 pages, 8997 KiB  
Review
A Review on the Application of Cobalt-Based Nanomaterials in Supercapacitors
by Lin Yang, Qinghan Zhu, Ke Yang, Xinkai Xu, Jingchun Huang, Hongfeng Chen and Haiwang Wang
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(22), 4065; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12224065 - 18 Nov 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2798
Abstract
Among many electrode materials, cobalt-based nanomaterials are widely used in supercapacitors because of their high natural abundance, good electrical conductivity, and high specific capacitance. However, there are still some difficulties to overcome, including poor structural stability and low power density. This paper summarizes [...] Read more.
Among many electrode materials, cobalt-based nanomaterials are widely used in supercapacitors because of their high natural abundance, good electrical conductivity, and high specific capacitance. However, there are still some difficulties to overcome, including poor structural stability and low power density. This paper summarizes the research progress of cobalt-based nanomaterials (cobalt oxide, cobalt hydroxide, cobalt-containing ternary metal oxides, etc.) as electrode materials for supercapacitors in recent years and discusses the preparation methods and properties of the materials. Notably, the focus of this paper is on the strategies to improve the electrochemical properties of these materials. We show that the performance of cobalt-based nanomaterials can be improved by designing their morphologies and, among the many morphologies, the mesoporous structure plays a major role. This is because mesoporous structures can mitigate volume changes and improve the performance of pseudo capacitance. This review is dedicated to the study of several cobalt-based nanomaterials in supercapacitors, and we hope that future scholars will make new breakthroughs in morphology design. Full article
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14 pages, 4803 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in g-C3N4 for the Application of Perovskite Solar Cells
by Jian Yang, Yuhui Ma, Jianping Yang, Wei Liu and Xing’ao Li
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(20), 3625; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12203625 - 16 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1486
Abstract
In this study, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was extensively utilized as an electron transport layer or interfacial buffer layer for simultaneously realizing photoelectric performance and stability improvement of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This review covers the different g-C3 [...] Read more.
In this study, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was extensively utilized as an electron transport layer or interfacial buffer layer for simultaneously realizing photoelectric performance and stability improvement of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This review covers the different g-C3N4 nanostructures used as additive and surface modifier layers applied to PSCs. In addition, the mechanism of reducing the defect state in PSCs, including improving the crystalline quality of perovskite, passivating the grain boundaries, and tuning the energy level alignment, were also highlighted in this review. Currently, the power conversion efficiency of PSCs based on modified g-C3N4 has been increased up to 22.13%, and its unique two-dimensional (2D) package structure has enhanced the stability of PSCs, which can remain stable in the dark for over 1500 h. Finally, the potential challenges and perspectives of g-C3N4 incorporated into perovskite-based optoelectronic devices are also included in this review. Full article
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16 pages, 5601 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances of Transition Metal Chalcogenides as Cathode Materials for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
by Ying Liu and Xiang Wu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(19), 3298; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12193298 - 22 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2524
Abstract
In recent years, advances in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have pushed the research of other metal-ion batteries to the forefront. Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have attracted much attention owing to their low cost, high capacity and non-toxic characteristics. Among various cathodes, transition metal [...] Read more.
In recent years, advances in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have pushed the research of other metal-ion batteries to the forefront. Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have attracted much attention owing to their low cost, high capacity and non-toxic characteristics. Among various cathodes, transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) with a layered structure are considered as suitable electrode materials. The large layer spacing facilitates the intercalation/de-intercalation of Zn2+ between the layers. In this mini-review, we summarize a variety of design strategies for the modification of TMCs. Then, we specifically emphasize the zinc storage capacity of the optimized electrodes. Finally, we propose the challenges and future prospects of cathode materials for high-energy AZIBs. Full article
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20 pages, 2828 KiB  
Review
Recent Advancements of Polyaniline/Metal Organic Framework (PANI/MOF) Composite Electrodes for Supercapacitor Applications: A Critical Review
by Rajangam Vinodh, Rajendran Suresh Babu, Sangaraju Sambasivam, Chandu V. V. Muralee Gopi, Salem Alzahmi, Hee-Je Kim, Ana Lucia Ferreira de Barros and Ihab M. Obaidat
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(9), 1511; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12091511 - 29 Apr 2022
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 4394
Abstract
Supercapacitors (SCs), also known as ultracapacitors, should be one of the most promising contenders for meeting the needs of human viable growth owing to their advantages: for example, excellent capacitance and rate efficiency, extended durability, and cheap materials price. Supercapacitor research on electrode [...] Read more.
Supercapacitors (SCs), also known as ultracapacitors, should be one of the most promising contenders for meeting the needs of human viable growth owing to their advantages: for example, excellent capacitance and rate efficiency, extended durability, and cheap materials price. Supercapacitor research on electrode materials is significant because it plays a vital part in the performance of SCs. Polyaniline (PANI) is an exceptional candidate for energy-storage applications owing to its tunable structure, multiple oxidation/reduction reactions, cheap price, environmental stability, and ease of handling. With their exceptional morphology, suitable functional linkers, metal sites, and high specific surface area, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are outstanding materials for electrodes fabrication in electrochemical energy storage systems. The combination of PANI and MOF (PANI/MOF composites) as electrode materials demonstrates additional benefits, which are worthy of exploration. The positive impacts of the two various electrode materials can improve the resultant electrochemical performances. Recently, these kinds of conducting polymers with MOFs composites are predicted to become the next-generation electrode materials for the development of efficient and well-organized SCs. The recent achievements in the use of PANI/MOFs-based electrode materials for supercapacitor applications are critically reviewed in this paper. Furthermore, we discuss the existing issues with PANI/MOF composites and their analogues in the field of supercapacitor electrodes in addition to potential future improvements. Full article
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