Search Results (345)

The thermal processing of walnut shells was investigated through pyrolysis within the range of 100–650 °C, highlighting the influence of thermal engineering parameters on biomass conversion. The resulting biochar was subjected to chemical activation with phosphoric acid, and its physicochemical properties were evaluated to determine how thermal processing enhances its performance as a cathode material for lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. This approach underscores the role of thermal engineering in bridging biomass valorization with energy storage technologies. In parallel, the gaseous fraction generated during walnut shell fast pyrolysis was collected, and for the first time, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) under atmospheric conditions were identified using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The composition of the VOCs was characterized, quantifying aromatic compounds, hydrocarbons, furans, and oxygenated species. This study further linked the thermal decomposition pathways of these compounds to their atmospheric implications by estimating tropospheric lifetimes and evaluating their potential contributions to air quality degradation at the local, regional, and global scales. Full article

This study addresses the development of advanced anode materials for lithium-ion batteries by investigating the high-entropy perovskite La(Co_0.2Mn_0.2Fe_0.2Ni_0.2Cu_0.2)O₃. The material was synthesized via spray drying of aqueous metal nitrate solutions, followed by calcination at various temperatures (800 °C/1 h, 1000 °C/1 h, 1000 °C/2 h, 1100 °C/1 h) to optimize structural properties. Structural analysis using X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of a single-phase perovskite in the sample calcined at 1100 °C for 1 h, while SEM/EDS revealed homogeneous elemental distribution. Electrochemical testing of the powders as anode materials in coin-type lithium-ion cells revealed a trend of slightly increasing capacity over 150 cycles, with capacity ultimately reaching 617 mAh g⁻¹, indicating progressive electrochemical activation. Although the samples share the same composition, variations in calcination conditions resulted in differences in capacity and cycling behavior. These results demonstrate that synthesis parameters critically influence the electrochemical performance of high-entropy perovskites. The findings suggest that such materials have potential as stable anodes for next-generation lithium-ion batteries, contributing to improved durability and efficiency in energy-storage technologies. Full article

With the rapid development of flexible electronic skin materials, the demand for ion-conductive hydrogels is constantly growing. Specifically, these ion-conductive hydrogels are required to simultaneously exhibit excellent mechanical properties, high conductivity, and multifunctionality. Moreover, this performance requirement needs to be met in complex environments. However, the rapid production of hydrogels that combine high conductivity and photochromic properties remains a major challenge. In this study, a simple one-pot method was employed to successfully prepare multifunctional photochromic hydrogels by incorporating ammonium molybdate (Mo₇) and lithium chloride (LiCl) into a dual-network hydrogel composed of polyacrylamide (PAAm) and sodium alginate (SA). PAAm/SA/Mo₇/LiCl (PSML) hydrogels exhibit excellent comprehensive performance, including superior conductivity (average value of 164 S/cm), rapid UV response time (<20 s), good color-changing reversibility, outstanding high stretchability (peak value of 2800%), and high transparency (>70%). The design ingeniously combines two types of synergistic effects: the synergistic effect of the dual-network structure and that of the multifunctional component functional additives (Mo₇, LiCl). Specifically, the PSML hydrogel integrates photochromic properties, excellent mechanical properties, good anti-freezing properties, and 3D printability through this design. Due to these outstanding properties, the PSML hydrogel shows broad application prospects in fields such as flexible strain sensors, information storage, and encryption devices. Full article

Lithium-ion batteries are pivotal components in battery electric vehicles, significantly influencing vehicle design and performance. This study investigates the interactions between cell properties and battery pack characteristics through statistical correlation analysis of datasets derived from industry-leading benchmarking platforms. Findings indicate that energy densities are comparable across cell formats at the pack level. While NMC and NCA chemistries outperform LFP in energy density at both cell and pack levels, LFP’s favorable cell-to-pack factors mitigate these differences. Analysis of cell properties suggests that increases in cell-level volumetric and gravimetric energy density result in proportionally smaller gains at the pack level due to the growing proportion of required passive components. The impact of cell chemistry and format on the z-dimension of a battery pack is analyzed in order to identify dependencies and influences between nominal cell properties and the geometry of the battery pack. The analysis suggests no significant influence of the used cell chemistry on the vertical dimension of a battery pack. The consideration of cell formats shows a dependency between the battery pack z-dimension and cell geometry, with prismatic cells reaching the highest pack heights and cylindrical cells being observed in packs of smaller vertical dimensions. The study also investigates the emerging sodium-ion battery technology and assesses pack-level energy densities derived from cell-level properties. The insights of this study contribute to the understanding of cell-to-pack relationships, guiding R&D toward improved energy storage solutions for electric vehicles. Full article

Lithium Niobate (LiNbO₃, LN) crystals are multifunctional optical materials with excellent electro-optical, acousto-optical, and nonlinear optical properties, and their broad spectral transparency makes them widely used in electro-optical modulators, tunable filters, and beam deflectors. Near Stoichiometric Lithium Niobate (NSLN) crystals have a lithium to niobium ratio ([Li]/[Nb]) close to 1:1,demonstrate superior performance characteristics compared to composition lithium niobate (Congruent Lithium Niobate (CLN), [Li]/[Nb] = 48.5:51.5) crystals. NSLN crystals have a lower coercive field (~4 kV/mm), higher electro-optic coefficient (${\gamma }_{33}$ = 38.3 pm/V), and better nonlinear optical properties. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on preparation methods, the physical properties of LN and NSLN crystals, and their applications in devices such as electro-optical modulators, optical micro-ring resonators, and holographic storage. Finally, the future development direction of NSLN crystals in the preparation process (large-size single-crystal growth and defect control) and new electro-optical devices (low voltage deflectors based on domain engineering) is envisioned. Full article

This study examines the issue of wind power smoothing in renewable-energy-grid integration scenarios. Under the “dual-carbon” policy initiative, large-scale renewable energy integration (particularly wind power) has become a global focus. However, the intermittency and uncertainty of wind power output exacerbate grid power fluctuations, posing challenges to power system stability. Consequently, smoothing strategies for wind power energy storage systems are desperately needed to improve operational economics and grid stability. According to current research, single energy storage technologies are unable to satisfy both the system-level economic operating requirements and high-frequency power fluctuation compensation at the same time, resulting in a trade-off between economic efficiency and precision of frequency regulation. Therefore, hybrid energy storage technologies have emerged as a key research focus in wind power energy storage. This study employs the SE-SGMD method, utilizing the distinct characteristics of lithium batteries and supercapacitors to decompose frequency regulation commands into low- and high-frequency components via frequency separation strategies, thereby controlling the output of supercapacitors and lithium batteries, respectively. Additionally, the GA-GWO algorithm is applied to optimize energy-storage-system configuration, with experimental validation conducted. The theoretical contributions of this study include the following: (1) introducing the SE-SGMD frequency separation strategy into hybrid energy storage systems, overcoming the performance limitations of single energy storage devices, and (2) developing a power allocation mechanism on the basis of the inherent properties of energy storage devices. In terms of methodological innovation, the designed hybrid GA-GWO algorithm achieves a balance between optimization accuracy and efficiency. Compared to PSO-DE and GWO-PSO, the GA-GWO energy storage system demonstrates improvements of 21.10% and 17.47% in revenue, along with reductions of 6.26% and 12.57% in costs, respectively. Full article

Solid-state lithium batteries (SSLBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional lithium-ion systems due to their superior safety profile, higher energy density, and potential compatibility with lithium metal anodes. However, a major challenge hindering their widespread deployment is the formation and growth of lithium dendrites, which compromise both performance and safety. This review provides a comprehensive and structured overview of recent advances in dendrite suppression strategies, with special emphasis on the role played by the nature of the solid electrolyte. In particular, we examine suppression mechanisms and material innovations within the three main classes of solid electrolytes: sulfide-based, oxide-based, and polymer-based systems. Each electrolyte class presents distinct advantages and challenges in relation to dendrite behavior. Sulfide electrolytes, known for their high ionic conductivity and good interfacial wettability, suffer from poor mechanical strength and chemical instability. Oxide electrolytes exhibit excellent electrochemical stability and mechanical rigidity but often face high interfacial resistance. Polymer electrolytes, while mechanically flexible and easy to process, generally have lower ionic conductivity and limited thermal stability. This review discusses how these intrinsic properties influence dendrite nucleation and propagation, including the role of interfacial stress, grain boundaries, void formation, and electrochemical heterogeneity. To mitigate dendrite formation, we explore a variety of strategies including interfacial engineering (e.g., the use of artificial interlayers, surface coatings, and chemical additives), mechanical reinforcement (e.g., incorporation of nanostructured or gradient architectures, pressure modulation, and self-healing materials), and modifications of the solid electrolyte and electrode structure. Additionally, we highlight the critical role of advanced characterization techniques—such as in situ electron microscopy, synchrotron-based X-ray diffraction, vibrational spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)—for elucidating dendrite formation mechanisms and evaluating the effectiveness of suppression strategies in real time. By integrating recent experimental and theoretical insights across multiple disciplines, this review identifies key limitations in current approaches and outlines emerging research directions. These include the design of multifunctional interphases, hybrid electrolytes, and real-time diagnostic tools aimed at enabling the development of reliable, scalable, and dendrite-free SSLBs suitable for practical applications in next-generation energy storage. Full article

In most commercial lithium-ion batteries, graphite remains the primary anode material. However, its theoretical specific capacity is only 372 mAh∙g⁻¹, which falls short of meeting the demands of high-performance electronic devices. Silicon anodes, despite boasting an ultra-high theoretical specific capacity of 4200 mAh∙g⁻¹, suffer from significant volume expansion (>300%) during cycling, leading to severe capacity fade and limiting their commercial viability. Currently, silicon-based polymer-derived ceramics have emerged as a highly promising next-generation anode material for lithium-ion batteries, thanks to their unique nano-cluster structure, tunable composition, and low volume expansion characteristics. The maximum capacity of the ceramics can exceed 1000 mAh∙g⁻¹, and their unique synthesis routes enable customization to align with diverse electrochemical application requirements. In this paper, we present the progress of silicon oxycarbide (SiOC), silicon carbonitride (SiCN), silicon boron carbonitride (SiBCN) and silicon oxycarbonitride (SiOCN) in the field of LIBs, including their synthesis, structural characteristics and electrochemical properties, etc. The mechanisms of lithium-ion storage in the Si-based anode materials are summarized as well, including the key role of free carbon in these materials. Full article

Energy storage technology is crucial for addressing the intermittency of renewable energy sources and plays a key role in power systems and electronic devices. In the field of energy storage systems, multivalent vanadium-based oxides have attracted widespread attention. Among these, vanadium dioxide (VO₂) is distinguished by its key advantages, including high theoretical capacity, low cost, and strong structural designability. The diverse crystalline structures and plentiful natural reserves of VO₂ offer a favorable foundation for facilitating charge transfer and regulating storage behavior during energy storage processes. This mini review provides an overview of the latest progress in VO₂-based materials for energy storage applications, specifically highlighting their roles in lithium-ion batteries, zinc-ion batteries, photoassisted batteries, and supercapacitors. Particular attention is given to their electrochemical properties, structural integrity, and prospects for development. Additionally, it explores future development directions to offer theoretical insights and strategic guidance for ongoing research and industrial application of VO₂. Full article

Photocuring, including photopolymerization and photocrosslinking, has emerged as a transformative manufacturing paradigm that enables the precise, rapid, and customizable fabrication of advanced battery components. This review first introduces the principles of photocuring and vat photopolymerization and their unique advantages of high process efficiency, non-contact fabrication, ambient-temperature processing, and robust interlayer bonding. It then systematically summarizes photocured battery components, involving electrolytes, membranes, anodes, and cathodes, highlighting their design strategies. This review examines the impact of photocured materials on the battery’s properties, such as its conductivity, lithium-ion transference number, and mechanical strength, while examining how vat-photopolymerization-derived 3D architectures optimize ion transport and electrode–electrolyte integration. Finally, it discusses current challenges and future directions for photocuring-based battery manufacturing, emphasizing the need for specialized energy storage resins and scalable processes to bridge lab-scale innovations with industrial applications. Full article

The urgent demand for sustainable energy solutions in the face of climate change and resource depletion has catalyzed a global shift toward cleaner energy production and more efficient storage technologies. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), as the cornerstone of modern portable electronics, electric vehicles, and grid-scale storage systems, are continually evolving to meet the growing performance requirements. In this dynamic context, two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as highly promising candidates for use in electrodes due to their layered structure, tunable electronic properties, and high theoretical capacity. Among 2D materials, molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) has gained increasing attention as a promising low-dimensional candidate for LIB anode applications. This review provides a comprehensive yet concise overview of recent advances in the application of MoS₂ in LIB electrodes, with particular attention to its unique electrochemical behavior at the nanoscale. We critically examine the interplay between structural features, charge-storage mechanisms, and performance metrics—chiefly the specific capacity, rate capability, and cycling stability. Furthermore, we discuss current challenges, primarily poor intrinsic conductivity and volume fluctuations, and highlight innovative strategies aimed at overcoming these limitations, such as through nanostructuring, composite formation, and surface engineering. By shedding light on the opportunities and hurdles in this rapidly progressing field, this work offers a forward-looking perspective on the role of MoS₂ in the next generation of high-performance LIBs. Full article

After reviewing the state of the art of the fluorination of inorganic solid electrolytes, an application of gas/solid fluorination is given and how it can be processed. Garnet-type oxide has been chosen. These oxides with an ideal structure of chemical formula A₃B₂(XO₄)₃ are mainly known for their magnetic and dielectric properties. Certain garnets may have a high enough Li⁺ ionic conductivity to be used as solid electrolyte of lithium ion battery. The surface of LLZO may be changed in contact with the moisture and CO₂ present in the atmosphere that results in a change of the conductivity at the interface of the solid. LiOH and/or lithium carbonate are formed at the surface of the garnet particles. In order to allow for handling and storage under normal conditions of this solid electrolyte, surface fluorination was performed using elemental fluorine. When controlled using mild conditions (temperature lower or equal to 200 °C, either in static or dynamic mode), the addition of fluorine atoms to LLZO with Li_6,4Al_0,2La₃Zr₂O₁₂ composition is limited to the surface, forming a covering layer of lithium fluoride LiF. The effect of the fluorination was evidenced by IR, Raman, and NMR spectroscopies. If present in the pristine LLZO powder, then the carbonate groups disappear. More interestingly, contrary to the pristine LLZO, the contents of these groups are drastically reduced even after storage in air up to 45 days when the powder is covered with the LiF layer. Surface fluorination could be applied to other solid electrolytes that are air sensitive. Full article

MXenes, a family of two-dimensional carbide and nitride nanomaterials, have demonstrated significant promise across various technological domains, particularly in energy storage applications. This review critically examines scalable synthesis techniques for MXenes and their potential integration into next-generation rechargeable battery systems. We highlight both top-down and emerging bottom-up approaches, exploring their respective efficiencies, environmental impacts, and industrial feasibility. The paper further discusses the electrochemical behavior of MXenes in lithium-ion, sodium-ion, and aluminum-ion batteries, as well as their multifunctional roles in solid-state batteries—including as electrodes, additives, and solid electrolytes. Special emphasis is placed on surface functionalization, interlayer engineering, and ion transport properties. We also compare MXenes with conventional graphite anodes, analyzing their gravimetric and volumetric performance potential. Finally, challenges such as diffusion kinetics, power density limitations, and scalability are addressed, providing a comprehensive outlook on the future of MXenes in sustainable energy storage technologies. Full article

MBenes, an emerging family of two-dimensional transition metal boride materials, are gaining prominence in alkali metal-ion battery research owing to their distinctive stratified architecture, enhanced charge transport properties, and exceptional electrochemical durability. This analysis provides a comprehensive examination of morphological characteristics and fabrication protocols for MBenes, with particular focus on strategies for optimizing energy storage metrics through controlled adjustment of interlayer distance and tailored surface modifications. The discussion highlights these materials’ unique capability to host substantial alkali metal ions, translating to exceptional longevity during charge–discharge cycling and remarkable high-current performance in both lithium and sodium battery systems. Current obstacles to materials development are critically evaluated, encompassing precision control in nanoscale synthesis, reproducibility in large-scale production, enhancement of thermodynamic stability, and eco-friendly processing requirements. Prospective research pathways are proposed, including sustainable manufacturing innovations, atomic-level structural tailoring through computational modeling, and expansion into hybrid energy storage-conversion platforms. By integrating fundamental material science principles with practical engineering considerations, this work seeks to establish actionable frameworks for advancing MBene-based technologies toward next-generation electrochemical storage solutions with enhanced energy density and operational reliability. Full article

Rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have experienced swift advancement and widespread commercialization in electronic devices and electric vehicles, driven by their exceptional efficiency, energy capacity, and elevated power density. However, to promote sustainable energy development there is a dire need to further extend the search for developing and optimizing the existing anode active energy storage materials. This has steered research towards carbon-based anode materials, particularly graphene, to promote and develop sustainable and efficient LIB technology that can drive the next wave of industrial innovation. In this regard, density functional theory (DFT) computations are considered a powerful tool to elucidate chemical and physical properties at an atomistic scale and serve as a transformative framework, catalyzing the discovery of novel high-performance anode materials for LIBs. This review highlights the computational progress in graphene and graphene composites to design better graphene-based anode materials for LIBs. Full article