Summary
Researchers discovered a way to create crack-free nanocellular graphene for use in sodium-ion batteries.
Nanocellular graphene has a large specific surface area achieved through stacking layers and controlling internal structure.
The dealloying method was used to develop the robust NCG with high tensile strength and conductivity.
The NCG material was tested in a sodium-ion battery, showing high rate, long life, and deformation resistance.
This research was conducted at Tohoku University in Japan.
Article
Researchers at Tohoku University in Japan have developed a method to create crack-free, robust nanocellular graphene (NCG) for use in sodium-ion batteries (SIB). NCG is a specialized form of graphene with a large specific surface area achieved by stacking multiple layers and controlling its structure with a nanoscale cellular morphology. The main limitation of NCG has been the occurrence of cracks during manufacturing.
The research team found that NCG produced through a dealloying method exhibited high tensile strength and conductivity after graphitization. Dealloying is a technique that uses the varying miscibility of alloy components in a molten metal bath to selectively corrode certain components while preserving others. This process resulted in the rapid self-assembly of carbon atoms into crack-free NCG during liquid metal dealloying of an amorphous Mn-C precursor in molten bismuth.
Won-Young Park, a graduate student at Tohoku University, stated that the team used the developed NCG as an active material and current collector in an SIB. The material showed high rate capability, long life, and excellent deformation resistance when used in the battery. This successful demonstration highlights the potential of NCG as a promising material for advanced energy storage applications such as sodium-ion batteries.
The utilization of NCG in SIBs has the potential to address current challenges related to energy storage, including improving battery performance, stability, and safety. The crack-free nature of NCG developed through the dealloying process enhances its mechanical properties and overall performance in battery applications. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient and durable energy storage solutions for various electronic devices and renewable energy systems.
The research conducted by Tohoku University contributes to the advancement of materials science and energy storage technology. By developing a method to create crack-free NCG for use in SIBs, the researchers have demonstrated the feasibility of using nanocellular graphene for enhancing battery performance. This innovative approach could pave the way for the commercialization of high-performance energy storage devices that rely on sustainable and efficient materials like NCG.
Overall, the discovery of a reliable method to produce crack-free NCG for SIB applications represents a significant achievement in the field of nanomaterials and energy storage technology. The successful demonstration of NCG’s high rate capability, long life, and deformation resistance in sodium-ion batteries showcases the potential of this material for future energy storage solutions. This research opens up new possibilities for the development of advanced batteries that can meet the increasing demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage technologies in various industries.
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