Abstract:
This talk provides an overview of a range of innovations in energy storage, focusing on electrode and electrolyte designs and innovative applications of molten salt electrochemistry. The first part of the talk explores the use of organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites as efficient cathode for rechargeable aluminum-ion batteries. This novel design exploits unique hydrogen-bonding interactions to enhance capacity retention. Another AIB breakthrough involves MoSe2-based three-dimensional helical nanorod arrays, which have high capacity, excellent cycle life, and opportunities for wearable energy storage applications. We then turn our attention to the MoS2/MoN heterostructure, an innovative catalyst that enhances the electrochemical performance of room-temperature Na-S batteries. By utilizing interfacial engineering techniques, this new catalyst can promote superior battery performance. The second half of the talk delves into novel electrolyte systems based on deep eutectic solvents (DES), demonstrating their application in zinc-ion and aluminum-ion batteries. The DES electrolyte allows reversible Zn plating/stripping, suppresses Zn dendrite formation, and supports the critical role of intermediate complex ions in the energy storage mechanism. Similarly, a novel deep eutectic solvent, thiourea-AlCl3, demonstrated improved performance for rechargeable Al-Se batteries, highlighting increased efficiency and increased cycle life. Finally, we investigate an environmentally friendly strategy to produce high-quality graphite nanosheets as an effective conductive additive for silicon anodes in lithium-ion batteries from waste tires via a molten-salt electrochemical process, which provides a sustainable solution for lithium-ion battery applications.