New System Accelerates Carbon-Capturing Batteries

A breakthrough technique that expedites the creation of catalysts for lithium-CO₂ (Li-CO₂) batteries could soon lead to the production of affordable, effective batteries that can also absorb toxic pollutants.

The University of Surrey, Imperial College London, and Peking University developed the technique to improve the sluggish and ineffective processes now employed to generate catalysts for Li-CO₂ batteries.

Researchers tested and screened elements including platinum, gold, silver, copper, iron, and nickel in the study using their method to quickly determine whether they would be appropriate candidates for creating powerful Li-CO₂ batteries.

We have created a cutting-edge lab-on-a-chip electrochemical testing platform that can do multiple things at the same time. It helps evaluate electrocatalysts, optimize operation conditions, and study CO₂ conversion in high-performance lithium-CO₂ batteries. This new method is more cost-effective, efficient, and controllable than traditional ways of making these materials.

Dr. Kai Yang, Study Corresponding Author and Lecturer, Advanced Technology Institute, University of Surrey

Li-CO₂ batteries are a promising new kind of battery that function by mixing lithium and carbon dioxide; they offer a mechanism to absorb CO₂ as well as effective energy storage, possibly offering a double contribution to the battle against climate change.

It is crucial that we develop new negative emissions technologies. Our lab-on-a-chip platform will play a crucial role in advancing this goal. It will not only enhance our understanding of novel batteries, but it can also be applied to other systems like metal-air batteries, fuel cells, and photoelectrochemical cells. This new tool will enable quick screening of catalysts, studying reaction mechanisms, and practical applications, from nanoscience to cutting-edge carbon removal technologies.

Dr. Yunlong Zhao, Study Lead Corresponding Author and Senior Lecturer, Imperial College London

Journal Reference:

Wang, M., et al. (2023) Developing highly reversible Li–CO₂ batteries: from on-chip exploration to practical application. Energy and Environmental Science. doi:10.1039/D3EE00794D

Source: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/