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A special issue of Inorganics (ISSN 2304-6740). This special issue belongs to the section "Inorganic Solid-State Chemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 May 2024) | Viewed by 18077

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Dr. Qingguo Shao

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School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, China
Interests: graphene; carbon nanotube; supercapacitor; li-ion batteries; dual-ion batteries; energy storage materials; nanotechnology; 2D materials
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With rapid consumption of fossil energy and increasingly environmental pollution, research involving energy storage and conversion have become the hot topic nowadays. Therefore, tremendous efforts have been made to explore different components of energy related devices such as cathode materials, anode materials, and electrolytes, and their chemical and electrochemical properties have been comprehensively investigated by various experimental techniques and computational methods. Despite recent advances in energy storage and conversion technology, discoveries and further improvements are still required. the aim of the special issue is to publish advanced and up-to-date original research and review papers with high quality in the field of energy storage and conversion, to provide platform for knowledge exchange on the frontier scientific research. Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

Batteries (Advanced Li/Na/K/Zn-ion batteries; Advanced Li-metal/sulfur/oxygen batteries);
Supercapacitors (Graphene electrode, Hybrid capacitor, Electrical double layer);
Electrolysis (Water, Carbon dioxide, and Nitrogen Reduction);
Fuel cells (Electrode materials, Membranes, Catalytic reactions, Electrochemical processes and technologies).

Dr. Qingguo Shao
Guest Editor

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Keywords

Lithium-ion batteries
supercapacitors
energy storage devices
next-generation batteries
electrocatalyst
Graphene and its composites
transition metal complexes

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 25294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Impregnation of PEDOT:PSS in Etched Aluminium Electrodes on the Performance of Solid State Electrolytic Capacitors

by Néstor Calabia Gascón, Benny Wouters, Herman Terryn and Annick Hubin

Inorganics 2024, 12(7), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12070185 - 2 Jul 2024

Viewed by 911

Abstract

Electrolytic capacitors store larger amounts of energy thanks to their thin dielectric layers and enlarged surface area. However, the benefits of using a liquid electrolyte are at the expense of the possibility of leakage, evaporation, or rupture of the device over time. As a solution, solid electrolytes, such as conductive polymers, substitute the liquid ones decreasing the internal resistance and enlarging the lifetime of these devices. PEDOT:PSS is a widely used conductive polymer in the formation of solid electrolytic capacitors. However, using the enlarged surface of the porous electrodes efficiently requires industrial processes, the efficacy of which has not been explored. In this work, porous aluminium electrodes with dielectric layers of different thicknesses were coated with PEDOT:PSS at different levels of doping in order to study the efficiency of the production of solid electrolytic capacitors in industry. The combination of odd random phase electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (ORP-EIS) with surface characterization techniques (SEM-EDX, GDOES) formed a methodology that allowed the study of both the electrical properties and the level of impregnation for these model systems. All samples consisting of a porous aluminium electrode with an amount of PEDOT:PSS deposited on top resulted in an inefficient degree of penetration between the two electrodes. However, the electrochemical analysis proved that the use of dopants produces systems with the highest capacitive properties. Consequently, the evolution towards better solid electrolytic capacitors does not rely solely on the proper coverage of the porous electrodes, but on the proper electrical properties of the PEDOT:PSS within the pores. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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10 pages, 3372 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Recovery of Ni-Co-Mn Oxides from End-of-Life Lithium-Ion Batteries for the Application of a Negative Temperature Coefficient Sensor

by Sungwook Mhin

Inorganics 2024, 12(4), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12040105 - 5 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1464

Abstract

This study demonstrates the current advancements in battery management systems (BMSs), emphasizing the need for precise temperature monitoring within battery packs to enhance safety and performance through efficient thermal management. The increased demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has driven the development of temperature sensors with improved accuracy and stability. In particular, Ni-Co-Mn-based spinel oxides are commonly used due to their stable negative temperature coefficient (NTC) behavior. However, challenges arise in manufacturing due to the high cost and uncertain supply of critical cathode components (e.g., Co, Ni, and Mn) for LIBs. This research focuses on developing spinel-type (Ni_0.6Co_0.4Mn₂)O₄ using recycled Ni-Co-Mn oxides obtained from end-of-life (EOL) LIBs, demonstrating temperature resistance behavior suitable for temperature sensing. The oxides are prepared through hydrometallurgy, oxalate synthesis, and post-heat treatment. Successful integration into spinel-type NTC thermistors suggests broader applications in various industrial fields. A systematic investigation into the synthesis and characterization of recovered Ni-Co-Mn oxides from EOL LIB cathode materials (Li(Ni_0.33Co_0.33Mn_0.33)O₂) is presented for NTC thermistor application. Thermogravimetric analysis-derivative thermogravimetry (TGA-DTG) identifies the optimal post-heat treatment temperature. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirm a cubic spinel structure of the Ni-Co-Mn oxides, supported by scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showing a uniform microstructure. Also, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) mapping confirms homogeneous element distribution. Recovered oxide pellets from the sintering process exhibit a single spinel structure, with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealing changes in the valence states for Ni and Mn. Resistivity measurements demonstrate semiconductive behavior, which shows a B value (3376.92 K) suitable for NTC thermistor applications. This study contributes valuable insights to black powder recycling from EOL LIBs and its potential in temperature-sensitive electronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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18 pages, 11677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On the Interaction between PEDOT:PSS Dispersions and Aluminium Electrodes for Solid State Electrolytic Capacitors

by Néstor Calabia Gascón, Reynier I. Revilla, Benny Wouters, Herman Terryn and Annick Hubin

Inorganics 2024, 12(4), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12040104 - 5 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1367

Abstract

The use of conductive polymers in aluminium electrolytic capacitors prevents leakage and enlarges the temperature use range when compared with their liquid counterparts. PEDOT:PSS is an outstanding candidate due to its tunable properties, i.e., electronic conductivity (10⁻⁵ to 10³ S/cm), and its high thermal stability. As a result of their synthesis, PEDOT:PSS dispersions are characterized by a low pH value, which can influence pH sensitive materials such as aluminium. However, no work to date has studied the interaction between PEDOT:PSS dispersions and aluminium oxide substrates. In this work, the interface and interaction between PEDOT:PSS and an aluminium electrode were studied for the first time via odd random phase electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and analysed post mortem by SEM and AFM characterization. PEDOT:PSS dispersions at different pH values (1.9, 4.9, 5.8) were applied in a layered manner onto a non-etched aluminium substrate with a grown oxide layer on top, which provided a model system for the analysis of the interface. The analysis showed that the acidic PEDOT:PSS dispersions attacked the aluminium substrate, forming pores on the surface, but had a positive impact on the capacitance of the aluminium oxide/PEDOT:PSS systems. On the other hand, neutral dispersions did not affect the aluminium electrode, but showed poor layer formation properties, and the electrochemical analysis displayed a dispersion of results ranging from capacitive to resistive behaviour. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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19 pages, 8076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on Surface Modification Characteristics and Charge–Discharge Mechanism of Natural Serpentinite Ore Secondary Battery

by Jun-Ren Zhao, Kuan-Jen Chen, Fei-Yi Hung, Yung-Yi Tsai and Po-Ting Wu

Inorganics 2024, 12(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12010013 - 27 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1606

Abstract

This study conducts low-vacuum sulfidation to form a sulfidation layer on the serpentinite-derived magnesium iron silicate, thereby enhancing its electrochemical properties. Results show (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ calcined at 900 °C has the best crystallinity, and the cubic FeS₂ is synthesized on the surface of the orthorhombic magnesium iron silicate (MFS). Two distinct charge plateaus can be distinguished during the first charge process, and the discharge capacities increased significantly. This study confirms that the surface FeS₂ layer provides extra ion pathways, allowing more lithium/magnesium ions to be extracted and inserted in the serpentinite-derived magnesium iron silicate. Accordingly, the serpentinite electrode boasts straightforward exploitation with low-cost advantages and potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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12 pages, 4387 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proton Conduction Properties of Intrinsically Sulfonated Covalent Organic Framework Composites

by Jianjian Yang, Zhihui Kong, Xinyu Li, Qinglei Guo, Zhen Wang, Zixi Kang, Rongming Wang and Daofeng Sun

Inorganics 2023, 11(7), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics11070283 - 30 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1687

Abstract

The long–term stability of proton conductors is one of the most important factors in evaluating materials. Guest molecules can act as “bridges” for proton conduction channels and reside in the channels of covalent organic frameworks, but they are prone to leakage. Therefore, it is important to develop proton conductors with intrinsic proton conductivity. In this paper, we synthesized an intrinsically sulfonated covalent organic framework, TpPa–SO₃H, which has a more stable proton conducting performance than that of TpPa@H₂SO₄ by loading guest molecules. Meanwhile, the proton conductivity of TpPa–SO₃H was further improved by coating a superabsorbent polymer through an in situ reaction to obtain PANa@TpPa–SO₃H (PANa: sodium polyacrylate). As a result, the modified composite exhibits an ultrahigh proton conductivity of 2.33 × 10⁻¹ S cm⁻¹ at 80 °C under 95% relative humidity (RH). The stability of PANa@TpPa–SO₃H makes it an efficient proton transport platform with excellent proton conductivity and long–term durability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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22 pages, 5901 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation and Properties of Three Plasticiser-Free Novel Di-benzo-18-Crown-6 Aldimine-Derived Lead(II) Ion-Selective Electrodes

by Deneikah T. Jackson, Peter N. Nelson, Kimberly Weston and Richard A. Taylor

Inorganics 2023, 11(7), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics11070275 - 27 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1351

Abstract

Three novel dibenzo-18-crown-6 aldimines were successfully synthesised and structurally characterised via various spectroscopic methods (¹H,¹³H NMR, FT-IR) and their solution phase lead binding behaviours probed via absorption spectroscopy, the results are supported by Density Functional Theoretical (DFT) modelling. These methods revealed that the asymmetric nature of these compounds is such that at equilibrium the ether cavity adopts an open configuration where the constituent oxygen atoms exhibit a highly negative electrostatic potential; hence, they spontaneously (ΔG~−58 kJ mol⁻¹) interact/bind aqueous lead ions to form stable 2:1 metal–ligand complexes. As indicated by cyclic and square voltammetry studies, all compounds are redox active and polymerise relatively easily onto a platinum surface to form a multi-layered lead Ion-selective Membrane (ISM), the structure of which is confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). These novel Ion-selective Electrodes (ISEs), as characterised by Differential Pulse Anodic Stripping Voltammetry (D PASV), allow selective electrochemical detection and quantification of lead at concentrations as low as 10 ppm, over a range of 15–60 ppm, with only minimal interference from mercury(II) and aluminium(III) ions at a 1:1 analyte-interferent ratio. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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10 pages, 2188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanism of High-Rate Cycling Stability of Anthraquinone Cathode for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries

by Qiujie Chen, Xiaoxu Lai, Wenlan Chen, Chi Chen, Houzhao Wan and Dan Sun

Inorganics 2023, 11(7), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics11070271 - 25 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1435

Abstract

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are an appealing rechargeable battery technology for next-generation energy storage devices, known for their low cost and high safety. Among the promising cathode materials used for aqueous ZIBs, anthraquinone (AQ) stands out due to its high theoretical specific capacity, low cost, and environmental friendliness. In this study, we investigate the cyclic stability of AQ in aqueous ZIBs. We demonstrate that AQ exhibits a good capacity retention at a high current density even after 1000 charge–discharge cycles, while more obvious capacity fading is observed at a low current density. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the mechanism of the rapid capacity fading under a low current density is due to the significant structural deformation of AQ crystal during Zn insertion into the AQ bulk. Furthermore, the energy barrier of Zn ions that diffuse into the AQ bulk is much higher than the diffuse on the AQ surface, leading to an irreversible Zn insertion. However, under a high current density, Zn ions prefer to adsorb and diffuse on the AQ surface without bulk insertion and structural deformation, rending a higher cycling stability. These insights into the factors influencing the cycling stability of AQ-based electrodes offer a guidance to improve their performance for practical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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13 pages, 4002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temperature-Driven Synthesis of 1D Fe₂O₃@3D Graphene Composite Applies as Anode of Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Shengyuan Zhu, Ruizhi Li, Jiapeng Xu, Liu Yang and Yingke Zhou

Inorganics 2023, 11(5), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics11050211 - 13 May 2023

Viewed by 1392

Abstract

A series of Fe₂O₃-anchored three-dimensional graphene (3DG) composites are synthesized via hydrothermal and annealing methods. The Fe₂O₃ nanocrystals in composites display nanocubes, one-dimensional (1D) nanorods and ellipsoids at hydrothermal temperatures of 120 °C, 150 °C and 180 °C, respectively. Notably, the composite synthesized at 150 °C shows 1D Fe₂O₃ uniformly embedded in 3DG, forming an interpenetrating 1D-3D (three-dimensional) structure. This combined structure is beneficial in improving the electrochemical stability and accelerating the Li⁺ diffusion rate. When used as anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the optimized 1D-3D Fe₂O₃@3DG composite delivers a reversible specific capacity of 1041 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹ and maintains a high reversible specific capacity of 775 mAh g⁻¹ after 200 cycles. The superior electrochemical properties of Fe₂O₃@3DG are a result of the stable interpenetrate structure, enhanced conductivity, and buffered volume change. These results suggest that Fe₂O₃@3DG composites have significant potential as advanced anode materials for LIBs and the combined 1D-3D structure also provides inspiration for other electrode material structure design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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15 pages, 2676 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One−Step Synthesis of Fe−Based Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) Nanosheet Array as Efficient Cathode for Hybrid Supercapacitors

by Jicheng Zhao, Liu Yang, Ruizhi Li and Yingke Zhou

Inorganics 2023, 11(4), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics11040169 - 17 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2103

Abstract

With the flourishing development of the new energy automobile industry, developing novel electrode materials to balance the capacity between cathode and anode is a challenge for hybrid supercapacitors. In comparison to conventional inorganic materials, metal–organic frameworks materials offer higher porosity and greater surface area for use in supercapacitors. Herein, we proposed a facile one–pot solvothermal technique to synthesize an Fe(BPDC) nanosheet array on Ni foam, which we then applied as a binder–free cathode for a supercapacitor. The solvothermal time was adjusted to ensure a desirable morphology of the final product. Benefitting from the impressive nanosheet morphology, to a great extent, Fe(BPDC) has solved the problem of volume expansion of Fe–based electrode materials during cycling, and exhibits brilliant electrochemical performances, i.e., high specific capacitance (17.54 F/cm² at 1 mV/s) and satisfactory cycle performance (129% retention after 10,000 cycles). Furthermore, Fe(BPDC) and activated carbon (AC) have been chosen to assemble a hybrid supercapacitor (namely Fe(BPDC)//AC), delivering an energy density of 45.64 Wh/kg at the power density of 4919.6 W/kg with 87.05% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles. These brilliant results prove that Fe(BPDC) material has great potential as the cathode of supercapacitors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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32 pages, 20927 KiB

Open AccessReview

Structure, Properties, and Preparation of MXene and the Application of Its Composites in Supercapacitors

by Mingming Sun, Wen Ye, Jingyao Zhang and Kaining Zheng

Inorganics 2024, 12(4), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics12040112 - 12 Apr 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3343

Abstract

Two-dimensional transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) are emerging members of the two-dimensional material family, obtained by removing the A layer of the MAX phase through methods such as liquid-phase etching. This article summarizes the structure and properties of MXenes, as well as several preparation methods, including etching with hydrofluoric acid and fluoride salts, alkali-based etching, electrochemical etching, Lewis acid molten salt etching, and direct synthesis. Due to their unique two-dimensional structure and surface chemistry, MXenes exhibit good metallic conductivity, hydrophilicity, excellent flexibility, and ion intercalation properties, showing great potential in the research and application of supercapacitors and attracting widespread attention. The combination of MXene with other types of materials, including polymers, metal hydroxides, metal oxides, and carbon materials, takes advantage of composites to improve energy storage performance and shows great potential in the research and application of supercapacitors. This article provides a detailed summary of MXene composite materials and capacitor performance and introduces the research progress of MXene materials in the field of supercapacitor energy storage applications, aiming to provide references for the preparation of high-performance MXene supercapacitor electrode materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Energy Storage and Conversion)

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