Work

Simple Physical Mixing of Graphitic Wood-Derived Carbon For High-Performance Ni(OH) 2 Electrodes: A Sustainable Strategy Beyond Metal Additives

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The replacement of expensive metal powders in Ni(OH) 2 -based cathodes is essential for reducing cost and environmental impact in aqueous Ni–Zn batteries. This work investigates graphitic wood-derived carbon (GWC) as a sustainable conductive additive to boost the performance of Ni(OH) 2 pasted electrodes prepared by a simple physical mixing process. A number of graphitic wood-derived carbon qualities are explored as functional additives replacing expensive cobalt and nickel powder additives while maintaining the electrochemical performance of Ni(OH) 2 electrodes in aqueous rechargeable Ni–Zn batteries. The GWC offers high electrical conductivity and a unique microsized particulate morphology. Optimizing the GWC content to 25 wt % yields a specific capacity of 284.2 mAh g –1 at 0.2C, which is better than that of electrodes containing only Ni(OH) 2, with Ni/Co powders, or commercial carbon black. Furthermore, the open-circuit voltage hysteresis and state of charge are studied to understand the charge/discharge process, suggesting that GWC is an effective alternative to expensive metal powders, providing a low-cost and sustainable strategy for improving Ni(OH) 2 -based electrodes through a straightforward manufacturing process.

Source: ACS Omega

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c11266

Authors: Xingyan Zhang, Sadaf Saeedi Garakani, Gunder Karlsson, Dag Noréus

Institution: Stockholm University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced battery technologies research

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,935