Inert electrode composition having agent for controlling oxide growth on electrode made therefrom

DOEpatents

Ray, S.P.

1986-04-15

An improved inert electrode composition is suitable for use as an inert electrode in the production of metals such as aluminum by the electrolytic reduction of metal oxide or metal salt dissolved in a molten salt bath. The composition comprises one or more metal alloys and metal compounds which may include oxides of the metals comprising the alloy. The alloy and metal compounds are interwoven in a network which provides improved electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving the level of chemical inertness necessary for such an electrode to function satisfactorily. The electrode composition further includes a metal compound dopant which will aid in controlling the thickness of a protective oxide layer on at least the bottom portion of an electrode made therefrom during use. 12 figs.

Inert electrode composition having agent for controlling oxide growth on electrode made therefrom

DOEpatents

Ray, Siba P.

1986-01-01

An improved inert electrode composition is suitable for use as an inert electrode in the production of metals such as aluminum by the electrolytic reduction of metal oxide or metal salt dissolved in a molten salt bath. The composition comprises one or more metal alloys and metal compounds which may include oxides of the metals comprising the alloy. The alloy and metal compounds are interwoven in a network which provides improved electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving the level of chemical inertness necessary for such an electrode to function satisfactorily. The electrode composition further includes a metal compound dopant which will aid in controlling the thickness of a protective oxide layer on at least the bottom portion of an electrode made therefrom during use.

Composite carbon foam electrode

DOEpatents

Mayer, S.T.; Pekala, R.W.; Kaschmitter, J.L.

1997-05-06

Carbon aerogels used as a binder for granulated materials, including other forms of carbon and metal additives, are cast onto carbon or metal fiber substrates to form composite carbon thin film sheets. The thin film sheets are utilized in electrochemical energy storage applications, such as electrochemical double layer capacitors (aerocapacitors), lithium based battery insertion electrodes, fuel cell electrodes, and electrocapacitive deionization electrodes. The composite carbon foam may be formed by prior known processes, but with the solid particles being added during the liquid phase of the process, i.e. prior to gelation. The other forms of carbon may include carbon microspheres, carbon powder, carbon aerogel powder or particles, graphite carbons. Metal and/or carbon fibers may be added for increased conductivity. The choice of materials and fibers will depend on the electrolyte used and the relative trade off of system resistivity and power to system energy. 1 fig.

Composite carbon foam electrode

DOEpatents

Mayer, Steven T.; Pekala, Richard W.; Kaschmitter, James L.

1997-01-01

Carbon aerogels used as a binder for granularized materials, including other forms of carbon and metal additives, are cast onto carbon or metal fiber substrates to form composite carbon thin film sheets. The thin film sheets are utilized in electrochemical energy storage applications, such as electrochemical double layer capacitors (aerocapacitors), lithium based battery insertion electrodes, fuel cell electrodes, and electrocapacitive deionization electrodes. The composite carbon foam may be formed by prior known processes, but with the solid particles being added during the liquid phase of the process, i.e. prior to gelation. The other forms of carbon may include carbon microspheres, carbon powder, carbon aerogel powder or particles, graphite carbons. Metal and/or carbon fibers may be added for increased conductivity. The choice of materials and fibers will depend on the electrolyte used and the relative trade off of system resistivty and power to system energy.

Fully solution-processed transparent electrodes based on silver nanowire composites for perovskite solar cells.

PubMed

Kim, Areum; Lee, Hongseuk; Kwon, Hyeok-Chan; Jung, Hyun Suk; Park, Nam-Gyu; Jeong, Sunho; Moon, Jooho

2016-03-28

We report all-solution-processed transparent conductive electrodes based on Ag nanowire (AgNW)-embedded metal oxide composite films for application in organometal halide perovskite solar cells. To address the thermal instability of Ag nanowires, we used combustive sol-gel derived thin films to construct ZnO/ITO/AgNW/ITO composite structures. The resulting composite configuration effectively prevented the AgNWs from undergoing undesirable side-reactions with halogen ions present in the perovskite precursor solutions that significantly deteriorate the optoelectrical properties of Ag nanowires in transparent conductive films. AgNW-based composite electrodes had a transmittance of ∼80% at 550 nm and sheet resistance of 18 Ω sq(-1). Perovskite solar cells fabricated using a fully solution-processed transparent conductive electrode, Au/spiro-OMeTAD/CH3NH3PbI3 + m-Al2O3/ZnO/ITO/AgNW/ITO, exhibited a power conversion efficiency of 8.44% (comparable to that of the FTO/glass-based counterpart at 10.81%) and were stable for 30 days in ambient air. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using AgNWs as a transparent bottom electrode in perovskite solar cells produced by a fully printable process.

Zinc electrode and rechargeable zinc-air battery

DOEpatents

Ross, Jr., Philip N.

1989-01-01

An improved zinc electrode is disclosed for a rechargeable zinc-air battery comprising an outer frame and a porous foam electrode support within the frame which is treated prior to the deposition of zinc thereon to inhibit the formation of zinc dendrites on the external surface thereof. The outer frame is provided with passageways for circulating an alkaline electrolyte through the treated zinc-coated porous foam. A novel rechargeable zinc-air battery system is also disclosed which utilizes the improved zinc electrode and further includes an alkaline electrolyte within said battery circulating through the passageways in the zinc electrode and an external electrolyte circulation means which has an electrolyte reservoir external to the battery case including filter means to filter solids out of the electrolyte as it circulates to the external reservoir and pump means for recirculating electrolyte from the external reservoir to the zinc electrode.

Iron-Air Rechargeable Battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayan, Sri R. (Inventor); Kindler, Andrew (Inventor); Prakash, G.K. Surya (Inventor)

2014-01-01

Embodiments include an iron-air rechargeable battery having a composite electrode including an iron electrode and a hydrogen electrode integrated therewith. An air electrode is spaced from the iron electrode and an electrolyte is provided in contact with the air electrode and the iron electrodes. Various additives and catalysts are disclosed with respect to the iron electrode, air electrode, and electrolyte for increasing battery efficiency and cycle life.

Novel air electrode for metal-air battery with new carbon material and method of making same

DOEpatents

Ross, Jr., Philip N.

1990-01-01

A novel carbonaceous electrode support material is disclosed characterized by a corrosion rate of 0.03 wt. %/hour or less when measured a5 550 millivolts vs. a Hg/HgO electrode in a 30 wt. % KOH electrolyte a5 30.degree. C. The electrode support material comprises a preselected carbon black material which has been heat-treated by heating the material to a temperature of from about 2500.degree. to about 3000.degree. C. over a period of from about 1 to about 5 hours in an inert atmosphere and then maintaining the preselected carbon black material at this temperature for a period of at least about 1 hour, and preferably about 2 hours, in the inert atmosphere. A carbonaceous electrode suitable for use as an air electrode in a metal-air cell may be made from the electrode support material by shaping and forming it into a catalyst support and then impregnating it with a catalytically active material capable of catalyzing the reaction with oxygen at the air electrode of metal-air cell.

Composite electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors.

PubMed

Li, Jun; Yang, Quanmin; Zhitomirsky, Igor

2010-01-07

Manganese dioxide nanofibers with length ranged from 0.1 to 1 μm and a diameter of about 4-6 nm were prepared by a chemical precipitation method. Composite electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors were fabricated by impregnation of the manganese dioxide nanofibers and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) into porous Ni plaque current collectors. Obtained composite electrodes, containing 85% of manganese dioxide and 15 mass% of MWCNT, as a conductive additive, with total mass loading of 7-15 mg cm-2, showed a capacitive behavior in 0.5-M Na2SO4 solutions. The decrease in stirring time during precipitation of the nanofibers resulted in reduced agglomeration and higher specific capacitance (SC). The highest SC of 185 F g-1 was obtained at a scan rate of 2 mV s-1 for mass loading of 7 mg cm-2. The SC decreased with increasing scan rate and increasing electrode mass.

Composite Electrodes for Electrochemical Supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jun; Yang, Quan Min; Zhitomirsky, Igor

2010-03-01

Manganese dioxide nanofibers with length ranged from 0.1 to 1 μm and a diameter of about 4-6 nm were prepared by a chemical precipitation method. Composite electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors were fabricated by impregnation of the manganese dioxide nanofibers and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) into porous Ni plaque current collectors. Obtained composite electrodes, containing 85% of manganese dioxide and 15 mass% of MWCNT, as a conductive additive, with total mass loading of 7-15 mg cm-2, showed a capacitive behavior in 0.5-M Na2SO4 solutions. The decrease in stirring time during precipitation of the nanofibers resulted in reduced agglomeration and higher specific capacitance (SC). The highest SC of 185 F g-1 was obtained at a scan rate of 2 mV s-1 for mass loading of 7 mg cm-2. The SC decreased with increasing scan rate and increasing electrode mass.

Improved zinc electrode and rechargeable zinc-air battery

DOEpatents

Ross, P.N. Jr.

1988-06-21

The invention comprises an improved rechargeable zinc-air cell/battery having recirculating alkaline electrolyte and a zinc electrode comprising a porous foam support material which carries the active zinc electrode material. 5 figs.

Composite Electrodes for Electrochemical Supercapacitors

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Manganese dioxide nanofibers with length ranged from 0.1 to 1 μm and a diameter of about 4–6 nm were prepared by a chemical precipitation method. Composite electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors were fabricated by impregnation of the manganese dioxide nanofibers and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) into porous Ni plaque current collectors. Obtained composite electrodes, containing 85% of manganese dioxide and 15 mass% of MWCNT, as a conductive additive, with total mass loading of 7–15 mg cm−2, showed a capacitive behavior in 0.5-M Na2SO4 solutions. The decrease in stirring time during precipitation of the nanofibers resulted in reduced agglomeration and higher specific capacitance (SC). The highest SC of 185 F g−1 was obtained at a scan rate of 2 mV s−1 for mass loading of 7 mg cm−2. The SC decreased with increasing scan rate and increasing electrode mass. PMID:20672101

Ionic Conduction in Lithium Ion Battery Composite Electrode Governs Cross-sectional Reaction Distribution.

PubMed

Orikasa, Yuki; Gogyo, Yuma; Yamashige, Hisao; Katayama, Misaki; Chen, Kezheng; Mori, Takuya; Yamamoto, Kentaro; Masese, Titus; Inada, Yasuhiro; Ohta, Toshiaki; Siroma, Zyun; Kato, Shiro; Kinoshita, Hajime; Arai, Hajime; Ogumi, Zempachi; Uchimoto, Yoshiharu

2016-05-19

Composite electrodes containing active materials, carbon and binder are widely used in lithium-ion batteries. Since the electrode reaction occurs preferentially in regions with lower resistance, reaction distribution can be happened within composite electrodes. We investigate the relationship between the reaction distribution with depth direction and electronic/ionic conductivity in composite electrodes with changing electrode porosities. Two dimensional X-ray absorption spectroscopy shows that the reaction distribution is happened in lower porosity electrodes. Our developed 6-probe method can measure electronic/ionic conductivity in composite electrodes. The ionic conductivity is decreased for lower porosity electrodes, which governs the reaction distribution of composite electrodes and their performances.

Ionic Conduction in Lithium Ion Battery Composite Electrode Governs Cross-sectional Reaction Distribution

PubMed Central

Orikasa, Yuki; Gogyo, Yuma; Yamashige, Hisao; Katayama, Misaki; Chen, Kezheng; Mori, Takuya; Yamamoto, Kentaro; Masese, Titus; Inada, Yasuhiro; Ohta, Toshiaki; Siroma, Zyun; Kato, Shiro; Kinoshita, Hajime; Arai, Hajime; Ogumi, Zempachi; Uchimoto, Yoshiharu

2016-01-01

Composite electrodes containing active materials, carbon and binder are widely used in lithium-ion batteries. Since the electrode reaction occurs preferentially in regions with lower resistance, reaction distribution can be happened within composite electrodes. We investigate the relationship between the reaction distribution with depth direction and electronic/ionic conductivity in composite electrodes with changing electrode porosities. Two dimensional X-ray absorption spectroscopy shows that the reaction distribution is happened in lower porosity electrodes. Our developed 6-probe method can measure electronic/ionic conductivity in composite electrodes. The ionic conductivity is decreased for lower porosity electrodes, which governs the reaction distribution of composite electrodes and their performances. PMID:27193448

Rechargeable aqueous lithium-air batteries with an auxiliary electrode for the oxygen evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sunahiro, S.; Matsui, M.; Takeda, Y.; Yamamoto, O.; Imanishi, N.

2014-09-01

A rechargeable aqueous lithium-air cell with a third auxiliary electrode for the oxygen evolution reaction was developed. The cell consists of a lithium metal anode, a lithium conducting solid electrolyte of Li1+x+yAlx(Ti,Ge)2-xSiyP3-yO12, a carbon black oxygen reduction air electrode, a RuO2 oxygen evolution electrode, and a saturated aqueous solution of LiOH with 10 M LiCl. The cell was successfully operated for several cycles at 0.64 mA cm-2 and 25 °C under air, where the capacity of air electrode was 2000 mAh gcathod-1. The cell performance was degraded gradually by cycling under open air. The degradation was reduced under CO2-free air and pure oxygen. The specific energy density was calculated to be 810 Wh kg-1 from the weight of water, lithium, oxygen, and carbon in the air electrode.

Understanding the Effects of Electrode Formulation on the Mechanical Strength of Composite Electrodes for Flexible Batteries.

PubMed

Gaikwad, Abhinav M; Arias, Ana Claudia

2017-02-22

Flexible lithium-ion batteries are necessary for powering the next generation of wearable electronic devices. In most designs, the mechanical flexibility of the battery is improved by reducing the thickness of the active layers, which in turn reduces the areal capacity and energy density of the battery. The performance of a battery depends on the electrode composition, and in most flexible batteries, standard electrode formulation is used, which is not suitable for flexing. Even with considerable efforts made toward the development of flexible lithium-ion batteries, the formulation of the electrodes has received very little attention. In this study, we investigate the relation between the electrode formulation and the mechanical strength of the electrodes. Peel and drag tests are used to compare the adhesion and cohesion strength of the electrodes. The strength of an electrode is sensitive to the particle size and the choice of polymeric binder. By optimizing the electrode composition, we were able to fabricate a high areal capacity (∼2 mAh/cm 2 ) flexible lithium-ion battery with conventional metal-based current collectors that shows superior electrochemical and mechanical performance in comparison to that of batteries with standard composition.

Composite electrode for use in electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Vanderborgh, N.E.; Huff, J.R.; Leddy, J.

1987-10-16

A porous composite electrode for use in electrochemical cells. The electrode has a first face and a second face defining a relatively thin section therebetween. The electrode is comprised of an ion conducting material, an electron conducting material, and an electrocatalyst. The volume concentration of the ion conducting material is greatest at the first face and is decreased across the section, while the volume concentration of the electron conducting material is greatest at the second face and decreases across the section of the electrode. Substantially all of the electrocatalyst is positioned within the electrode section in a relatively narrow zone where the rate of electron transport of the electrode is approximately equal to the rate of ion transport of the electrode. 4 figs., 1 tab.

Composite electrode for use in electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Vanderborgh, Nicholas E.; Huff, James R.; Leddy, Johna

1989-01-01

A porous composite electrode for use in electrochemical cells. The electrode has a first face and a second face defining a relatively thin section therebetween. The electrode is comprised of an ion conducting material, an electron conducting material, and an electrocatalyst. The volume concentration of the ion conducting material is greatest at the first face and is decreased across the section, while the volume concentration of the electron conducting material is greatest at the second face and decreases across the section of the electrode. Substantially all of the electrocatalyst is positioned within the electrode section in a relatively narrow zone where the rate of electron transport of the electrode is approximately equal to the rate of ion transport of the electrode.

Electrochemical performance of an air-breathing direct methanol fuel cell using poly(vinyl alcohol)/hydroxyapatite composite polymer membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Chun-Chen; Chiu, Shwu-Jer; Lin, Che-Tseng

A novel composite polymer membrane based on poly(vinyl alcohol)/hydroxyapatite (PVA/HAP) was successfully prepared by a solution casting method. The characteristic properties of the PVA/HAP composite polymer membranes were examined by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), micro-Raman spectroscopy and AC impedance method. An air-breathing DMFC, comprised of an air cathode electrode with MnO 2/BP2000 carbon inks on Ni-foam, an anode electrode with PtRu black on Ti-mesh, and the PVA/HAP composite polymer membrane, was assembled and studied. It was found that this alkaline DMFC showed an improved electrochemical performance at ambient temperature and pressure; the maximum peak power density of an air-breathing DMFC in 8 M KOH + 2 M CH 3OH solution is about 11.48 mW cm -2. From the application point of view, these composite polymer membranes show a high potential for the DMFC applications.

Solid oxide fuel cells, and air electrode and electrical interconnection materials therefor

DOEpatents

Bates, J. Lambert

1992-01-01

In one aspect of the invention, an air electrode material for a solid oxide fuel cell comprises Y.sub.1-a Q.sub.a MnO.sub.3, where "Q" is selected from the group consisting of Ca and Sr or mixtures thereof and "a" is from 0.1 to 0.8. Preferably, "a" is from 0.4 to 0.7. In another aspect of the invention, an electrical interconnection material for a solid oxide fuel cell comprises Y.sub.1-b Ca.sub.b Cr.sub.1-c Al.sub.c O.sub.3, where "b" is from 0.1 to 0.6 and "c" is from 0 to 9.3. Preferably, "b" is from 0.3 to 0.5 and "c" is from 0.05 to 0.1. A composite solid oxide electrochemical fuel cell incorporating these materials comprises: a solid oxide air electrode and an adjacent solid oxide electrical interconnection which commonly include the cation Y, the air electrode comprising Y.sub.1-a Q.sub.a MnO.sub.3, where "Q" is selected from the group consisting of Ca and Sr or mixtures thereof and "a" is from 0.1 to 0.8, the electrical interconnection comprising Y.sub.1-b Ca.sub.b Cr.sub.1-c Al.sub.c O.sub.3, where "b" is from 0.1 to 0.6 and "c" is from 0.0 to 0.3; a yttrium stabilized solid electrolyte comprising (1-d)ZrO.sub.2 -(d)Y.sub.2 O.sub.3 where "d" is from 0.06 to 0.5; and a solid fuel electrode comprising X-ZrO.sub.2, where "X" is an elemental metal.

Solid oxide fuel cells, and air electrode and electrical interconnection materials therefor

DOEpatents

Bates, J.L.

1992-09-01

In one aspect of the invention, an air electrode material for a solid oxide fuel cell comprises Y[sub 1[minus]a]Q[sub a]MnO[sub 3], where Q is selected from the group consisting of Ca and Sr or mixtures thereof and a' is from 0.1 to 0.8. Preferably, a' is from 0.4 to 0.7. In another aspect of the invention, an electrical interconnection material for a solid oxide fuel cell comprises Y[sub 1[minus]b]Ca[sub b]Cr[sub 1[minus]c]Al[sub c]O[sub 3], where b' is from 0.1 to 0.6 and c' is from 0 to 9.3. Preferably, b' is from 0.3 to 0.5 and c' is from 0.05 to 0.1. A composite solid oxide electrochemical fuel cell incorporating these materials comprises: a solid oxide air electrode and an adjacent solid oxide electrical interconnection which commonly include the cation Y, the air electrode comprising Y[sub 1[minus]a]Q[sub a]MnO[sub 3], where Q is selected from the group consisting of Ca and Sr or mixtures thereof and a' is from 0.1 to 0.8, the electrical interconnection comprising Y[sub 1[minus]b]Ca[sub b]Cr[sub 1[minus]c]Al[sub c]O[sub 3], where b' is from 0.1 to 0.6 and c' is from 0.0 to 0.3; a yttrium stabilized solid electrolyte comprising (1[minus]d)ZrO[sub 2]-(d)Y[sub 2]O[sub 3] where d' is from 0.06 to 0.5; and a solid fuel electrode comprising X-ZrO[sub 2], where X' is an elemental metal. 5 figs.

In Situ-Grown ZnCo2O4 on Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Air Electrode Materials for Rechargeable Lithium–Oxygen Batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Bin; Xu, Wu; Yan, Pengfei

2015-10-12

Although lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) batteries have great potential to be used as one of the next generation energy storage systems due to their ultrahigh theoretical specific energy, there are still many significant barriers before their practical applications. These barriers include electrolyte and electrode instability, poor ORR/OER efficiency and cycling capability, etc. Development of a highly efficient catalyst will not only enhance ORR/OER efficiency, it may also improve the stability of electrolyte because the reduced charge voltage. Here we report the synthesis of nano-sheet-assembled ZnCo2O4 spheres/single walled carbon nanotubes (ZCO/SWCNTs) composites as high performance air electrode materials for Li-O2 batteries. The ZCOmore » catalyzed SWCNTs electrodes delivered high discharge capacities, decreased the onset of oxygen evolution reaction by 0.9 V during charge processes, and led to more stable cycling stability. These results indicate that ZCO/SWCNTs composite can be used as highly efficient air electrode for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. The highly enhanced catalytic activity by uniformly dispersed ZnCo2O4 catalyst on nanostructured electrodes is expected to inspire« less

Method of making an air electrode material having controlled sinterability

DOEpatents

Vasilow, T.R.; Kuo, L.J.H.; Ruka, R.J.

1994-08-30

A tubular, porous ceramic electrode structure is made from the sintered admixture of doped lanthanum manganite and an additive containing cerium where a solid electrolyte, substantially surrounds the air electrode, and a porous outer fuel electrode substantially surrounds the electrolyte, to form a fuel cell. 2 figs.

Method of making an air electrode material having controlled sinterability

DOEpatents

Vasilow, Theodore R.; Kuo, Lewis J. H.; Ruka, Roswell J.

1994-01-01

A tubular, porous ceramic electrode structure (3) is made from the sintered admixture of doped lanthanum manganite and an additive containing cerium where a solid electrolyte (4), substantially surrounds the air electrode, and a porous outer fuel electrode (7) substantially surrounds the electrolyte, to form a fuel cell (1).

Density impact on performance of composite Si/graphite electrodes

DOE PAGES

Dufek, Eric J.; Picker, Michael; Petkovic, Lucia M.

2016-01-27

The ability of alkali-substituted binders for composite Si and graphite negative electrodes to minimize capacity fade for lithium ion batteries is investigated. Polymer films and electrodes are described and characterized by FTIR following immersion in electrolyte (1:2 EC:DMC) for 24 h. FTIR analysis following electrode formation displayed similar alkali-ion dependent shifts in peak location suggesting that changes in the vibrational structure of the binder are maintained after electrode formation. The Si and graphite composite electrodes prepared using the alkali-substituted polyacrylates were also exposed to electrochemical cycling and it has been found that the performance of the Na-substituted binder is superiormore » to a comparable density K-substituted system. However, in comparing performance across many different electrode densities attention needs to be placed on making comparisons at similar densities, as low density electrodes tend to exhibit lower capacity fade over cycling. This is highlighted by a 6% difference between a low density K-substituted electrode and a high density Na-substituted sample. As a result, this low variance between the two systems makes it difficult to quickly make a direct evaluation of binder performance unless electrode density is tightly controlled.« less

CNT Sheet Air Electrode for the Development of Ultra-High Cell Capacity in Lithium-Air Batteries

PubMed Central

Nomura, Akihiro; Ito, Kimihiko; Kubo, Yoshimi

2017-01-01

Lithium-air batteries (LABs) are expected to provide a cell with a much higher capacity than ever attained before, but their prototype cells present a limited areal cell capacity of no more than 10 mAh cm−2, mainly due to the limitation of their air electrodes. Here, we demonstrate the use of flexible carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets as a promising air electrode for developing ultra-high capacity in LAB cells, achieving areal cell capacities of up to 30 mAh cm−2, which is approximately 15 times higher than the capacity of cells with lithium-ion battery (LiB) technology (~2 mAh cm−2). During discharge, the CNT sheet electrode experienced enormous swelling to a thickness of a few millimeters because of the discharge product deposition of lithium peroxide (Li2O2), but the sheet was fully recovered after being fully charged. This behavior results from the CNT sheet characteristics of the flexible and fibrous conductive network and suggests that the CNT sheet is an effective air electrode material for developing a commercially available LAB cell with an ultra-high cell capacity. PMID:28378746

A new composite electrode architecture for energy storage devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferro, Richard E.; Swain, Greg M.; Tatarchuk, B. J.

1992-01-01

The research objective is to determine how the electrode microstructure (architecture) affect the performance of the nickel hydroxide electrochemical system. It was found that microstructure and additional surface area makes a difference. The best architectures are the FIBREX/nickel and nickel fiber composite electrodes. The conditioning time for full utilization was greatly reduced. The accelerated increase in capacity vs. cycling appears to be a good indicator of the condition of the electrode/active material microstructure and morphology. Conformal deposition of the active material may be indicated and important. Also higher utilizations were obtained; greater than 80 pct. after less than 5 cycles and greater than 300 pct. after more than 5 cycles using nickel fiber composite electrode assuming a 1 electron transfer per equivalent.

Capacitor with a composite carbon foam electrode

DOEpatents

Mayer, Steven T.; Pekala, Richard W.; Kaschmitter, James L.

1999-01-01

Carbon aerogels used as a binder for granularized materials, including other forms of carbon and metal additives, are cast onto carbon or metal fiber substrates to form composite carbon thin film sheets. The thin film sheets are utilized in electrochemical energy storage applications, such as electrochemical double layer capacitors (aerocapacitors), lithium based battery insertion electrodes, fuel cell electrodes, and electrocapacitive deionization electrodes. The composite carbon foam may be formed by prior known processes, but with the solid partides being added during the liquid phase of the process, i.e. prior to gelation. The other forms of carbon may include carbon microspheres, carbon powder, carbon aerogel powder or particles, graphite carbons. Metal and/or carbon fibers may be added for increased conductivity. The choice of materials and fibers will depend on the electrolyte used and the relative trade off of system resistivity and power to system energy.

Capacitor with a composite carbon foam electrode

DOEpatents

Mayer, S.T.; Pekala, R.W.; Kaschmitter, J.L.

1999-04-27

Carbon aerogels used as a binder for granularized materials, including other forms of carbon and metal additives, are cast onto carbon or metal fiber substrates to form composite carbon thin film sheets. The thin film sheets are utilized in electrochemical energy storage applications, such as electrochemical double layer capacitors (aerocapacitors), lithium based battery insertion electrodes, fuel cell electrodes, and electrocapacitive deionization electrodes. The composite carbon foam may be formed by prior known processes, but with the solid particles being added during the liquid phase of the process, i.e. prior to gelation. The other forms of carbon may include carbon microspheres, carbon powder, carbon aerogel powder or particles, graphite carbons. Metal and/or carbon fibers may be added for increased conductivity. The choice of materials and fibers will depend on the electrolyte used and the relative trade off of system resistivity and power to system energy. 1 fig.

Oxide modified air electrode surface for high temperature electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Singh, Prabhakar; Ruka, Roswell J.

1992-01-01

An electrochemical cell is made having a porous cermet electrode (16) and a porous lanthanum manganite electrode (14), with solid oxide electrolyte (15) between them, where the lanthanum manganite surface next to the electrolyte contains a thin discontinuous layer of high surface area cerium oxide and/or praseodymium oxide, preferably as discrete particles (30) in contact with the air electrode and electrolyte.

Metal | polypyrrole battery with the air regenerated positive electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grgur, Branimir N.

2014-12-01

Recharge characteristics of the battery based on the electrochemically synthesized polypyrrole cathode and aluminum, zinc, or magnesium anode in 2 M NH4Cl are investigated. It is shown that polypyrrole electrode can be regenerated by the reoxidation with the dissolved oxygen from the air. Using the polypyrrole synthesized on high surface graphite-felt electrode under modest discharge conditions, stable discharge voltage of 1.1 V is obtained. Such behavior is explained by the complex interaction of polypyrrole and hydrogen peroxide produced by the oxygen reduction reaction. The electrochemical characteristics are compared with the zinc-manganese dioxide and zinc-air systems.

Novel air electrode for metal-air battery with new carbon material and method of making same

DOEpatents

Ross, P.N. Jr.

1988-06-21

This invention relates to a rechargeable battery or fuel cell. More particularly, this invention relates to a novel air electrode comprising a new carbon electrode support material and a method of making same. 3 figs.

Nano ZnO-activated carbon composite electrodes for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Selvakumar, M.; Krishna Bhat, D.; Manish Aggarwal, A.; Prahladh Iyer, S.; Sravani, G.

2010-05-01

A symmetrical (p/p) supercapacitor has been fabricated by making use of nanostructured zinc oxide (ZnO)-activated carbon (AC) composite electrodes for the first time. The composites have been characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Electrochemical properties of the prepared nanocomposite electrodes and the supercapacitor have been studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and AC impedance spectroscopy in 0.1 M Na 2SO 4 as electrolyte. The ZnO-AC nanocomposite electrode showed a specific capacitance of 160 F/g for 1:1 composition. The specific capacitance of the electrodes decreased with increase in zinc oxide content. Galvanostatic charge-discharge measurements have been done at various current densities, namely 2, 4, 6 and 7 mA/cm 2. It has been found that the cells have excellent electrochemical reversibility and capacitive characteristics in 0.1 M Na 2SO 4 electrolyte. It has also been observed that the specific capacitance is constant up to 500 cycles at all current densities.

New reusable elastomer electrodes for assessing body composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moreno, M.-V.; Chaset, L.; Bittner, P. A.; Barthod, C.; Passard, M.

2013-04-01

The development of telemedicine requires finding solutions of reusable electrodes for use in patients' homes. The objective of this study is to evaluate the relevance of reusable elastomer electrodes for measuring body composition. We measured a population of healthy Caucasian (n = 17). A measurement was made with a reference device, the Xitron®, associated with AgCl Gel electrodes (Gel) and another measurement with a multifrequency impedancemeter Z-Metrix® associated with reusable elastomer electrodes (Elast). We obtained a low variability with an average error of repeatability of 0.39% for Re and 0.32% for Rinf. There is a non significantly difference (P T-test > 0.1) about 200 ml between extracellular water Ve measured with Gel and Elast in supine and in standing position. For total body water Vt, we note a non significantly difference (P T-test > 0.1) about 100 ml and 2.2 1 respectively in supine and standing position. The results give low dispersion, with R2 superior to 0.90, with a 1.5% maximal error between Gel and Elast on Ve in standing position. It looks possible, taking a few precautions, using elastomer electrodes for assessing body composition.

Conductor-polymer composite electrode materials

DOEpatents

Ginley, D.S.; Kurtz, S.R.; Smyrl, W.H.; Zeigler, J.M.

1984-06-13

A conductive composite material useful as an electrode, comprises a conductor and an organic polymer which is reversibly electrochemically dopable to change its electrical conductivity. Said polymer continuously surrounds the conductor in intimate electrical contact therewith and is prepared by electrochemical growth on said conductor or by reaction of its corresponding monomer(s) on said conductor which has been pre-impregnated or pre-coated with an activator for said polymerization. Amount of the conductor is sufficient to render the resultant composite electrically conductive even when the polymer is in an undoped insulating state.

Stress analysis in cylindrical composition-gradient electrodes of lithium-ion battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Yaotian; Liu, Yulan; Wang, B.

2017-07-01

In recent years, the composition-gradient electrode material has been verified to be one of the most promising materials in lithium-ion battery. To investigate diffusion-induced stresses (DIS) generated in a cylindrical composition-gradient electrode, the finite deformation theory and the stress-induced diffusion hypothesis are adopted to establish the constitutive equations. Compared with stress distributions in a homogeneous electrode, the increasing forms of Young's modulus E(R) and partial molar volume Ω(R) from the electrode center to the surface along the radial direction drastically increase the maximal magnitudes of hoop and axial stresses, while both of the decreasing forms are able to make the stress fields smaller and flatter. Also, it is found that the slope of -1 for E(R) with that of -0.5 for Ω(R) is a preferable strategy to prevent the inhomogeneous electrode from cracking, while for the sake of protecting the electrode from compression failure, the optimal slope for inhomogeneous E(R) and the preferential one for Ω(R) are both -0.5. The results provide a theoretical guidance for the design of composition-gradient electrode materials.

Towards uniformly dispersed battery electrode composite materials: Characteristics and performance

DOE PAGES

Yo Han Kwon; Takeuchi, Esther S.; Huie, Matthew M.; ...

2016-01-14

Battery electrodes are complex mesoscale systems comprised of electroactive components, conductive additives, and binders. In this report, methods for processing electrodes with dispersion of the components are described. To investigate the degree of material dispersion, a spin-coating technique was adopted to provide a thin, uniform layer that enabled observation of the morphology. Distinct differences in the distribution profile of the electrode components arising from individual materials physical affinities were readily identified. Hansen solubility parameter (HSP) analysis revealed pertinent surface interactions associated with materials dispersivity. Further studies demonstrated that HSPs can provide an effective strategy to identify surface modification approaches formore » improved dispersions of battery electrode materials. Specifically, introduction of surfactantlike functionality such as oleic acid (OA) capping and P3HT-conjugated polymer wrapping on the surface of nanomaterials significantly enhanced material dispersity over the composite electrode. The approach to the surface treatment on the basis of HSP study can facilitate design of composite electrodes with uniformly dispersed morphology and may contribute to enhancing their electrical and electrochemical behaviors. The conductivity of the composites and their electrochemical performance was also characterized. In conclusion, the study illustrates the importance of considering electronic conductivity, electron transfer, and ion transport in the design of environments incorporating active nanomaterials.« less

Towards uniformly dispersed battery electrode composite materials: Characteristics and performance

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yo Han Kwon; Takeuchi, Esther S.; Huie, Matthew M.

Battery electrodes are complex mesoscale systems comprised of electroactive components, conductive additives, and binders. In this report, methods for processing electrodes with dispersion of the components are described. To investigate the degree of material dispersion, a spin-coating technique was adopted to provide a thin, uniform layer that enabled observation of the morphology. Distinct differences in the distribution profile of the electrode components arising from individual materials physical affinities were readily identified. Hansen solubility parameter (HSP) analysis revealed pertinent surface interactions associated with materials dispersivity. Further studies demonstrated that HSPs can provide an effective strategy to identify surface modification approaches formore » improved dispersions of battery electrode materials. Specifically, introduction of surfactantlike functionality such as oleic acid (OA) capping and P3HT-conjugated polymer wrapping on the surface of nanomaterials significantly enhanced material dispersity over the composite electrode. The approach to the surface treatment on the basis of HSP study can facilitate design of composite electrodes with uniformly dispersed morphology and may contribute to enhancing their electrical and electrochemical behaviors. The conductivity of the composites and their electrochemical performance was also characterized. In conclusion, the study illustrates the importance of considering electronic conductivity, electron transfer, and ion transport in the design of environments incorporating active nanomaterials.« less

A reduced graphene oxide/Co 3O 4 composite for supercapacitor electrode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xiang, Chengcheng; Li, Ming; Zhi, Mingjia

2013-03-01

20 nm sized Co 3O 4 nanoparticles are in-situ grown on the chemically reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets to form a rGO-Co 3O 4 composite during hydrothermal processing. The rGO-Co 3O 4 composite is employed as the pseudocapacitor electrode in the 2 M KOH aqueous electrolyte solution. The rGOCo 3O 4 composite electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of 472 F/g at a scan rate of 2 mV/s in a two-electrode cell. 82.6% of capacitance is retained when the scan rate increases to 100 mV/s. The rGOCo 3O 4 composite electrode shows high rate capability and excellent long-term stability. It alsomore » exhibits high energy density at relatively high power density. The energy density reaches 39.0 Wh/kg at a power density of 8.3 kW/kg. The super performance of the composite electrode is attributed to the synergistic effects of small size and good redox activity of the Co 3O 4 particles combined with high electronic conductivity of the rGO sheets.« less

Graphite-silicone rubber composite electrode: Preparation and possibilities of analytical application.

PubMed

de Oliveira, Aline Carlos; dos Santos, Sidney Xavier; Cavalheiro, Eder Tadeu Gomes

2008-01-15

Composite electrodes were prepared using graphite powder and silicone rubber in different compositions. The use of such hydrophopic materials interned to diminish the swallowing observed in other cases when the electrodes are used in aqueous solutions for a long time. The composite was characterized for the response reproducibility, ohmic resistance, thermal behavior and active area. The voltammetric response in relation to analytes with known voltammetric behavior was also evaluated, always in comparison with the glassy carbon. The 70% (graphite, w/w) composite electrode was used in the quantitative determination of hydroquinone (HQ) in a DPV procedure in which a detection limit of 5.1x10(-8)molL(-1) was observed. HQ was determined in a photographic developer sample with errors lower then 1% in relation to the label value.

Electrochemical detection and degradation of ibuprofen from water on multi-walled carbon nanotubes-epoxy composite electrode.

PubMed

Motoc, Sorina; Remes, Adriana; Pop, Aniela; Manea, Florica; Schoonman, Joop

2013-04-01

This work describes the electrochemical behaviour of ibuprofen on two types of multi-walled carbon nanotubes based composite electrodes, i.e., multi-walled carbon nanotubes-epoxy (MWCNT) and silver-modified zeolite-multi-walled carbon nanotubes-epoxy (AgZMWCNT) composites electrodes. The composite electrodes were obtained using two-roll mill procedure. SEM images of surfaces of the composites revealed a homogeneous distribution of the composite components within the epoxy matrix. AgZMWCNT composite electrode exhibited the better electrical conductivity and larger electroactive surface area. The electrochemical determination of ibuprofen (IBP) was achieved using AgZMWCNT by cyclic voltammetry, differential-pulsed voltammetry, square-wave voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The IBP degradation occurred on both composite electrodes under controlled electrolysis at 1.2 and 1.75 V vs. Ag/AgCl, and IBP concentration was determined comparatively by differential-pulsed voltammetry, under optimized conditions using AgZMWCNT electrode and UV-Vis spectrophotometry methods to determine the IBP degradation performance for each electrode. AgZMWCNT electrode exhibited a dual character allowing a double application in IBP degradation process and its control.

Improvement in Electrode Performance of Novel SWCNT Loaded Three-Dimensional Porous RVC Composite Electrodes by Electrochemical Deposition Method

PubMed Central

Almoigli, Mohammed; Meriey, Al Yahya; Alharbi, Khalid N.

2018-01-01

The three-dimensional (3D) composite electrodes were prepared by depositing different amounts of acid-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (a-SWCNTs) on porous reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) through the electrochemical deposition method. The SWCNT was functionalized by the reflux method in nitric acid and was proven by Raman and visible spectra. The optimum time for sonication to disperse the functionalized SWCNT (a-SWCNT) in dimethyl formamide (DMF) well was determined by UV spectra. The average pore size of RVC electrodes was calculated from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Moreover, the surface morphology of composite electrodes was also examined by SEM study. All 3D electrodes were evaluated for their electrochemical properties by cyclic voltammetry. The result showed that the value of specific capacitance of the electrode increases with the increase in the amount of a-SWCNT in geometric volume. However, the value of specific capacitance per gram decreases with the increase in scan rate as well as the amount of a-SWCNT. The stability of the electrodes was also tested. This revealed that all the electrodes were stable; however, lower a-SWCNT-loaded electrodes had excellent cyclic stability. These results suggest that the a-SWCNT-coated RVC electrodes have promise as an effective technology for desalination. PMID:29301258

Improvement in Electrode Performance of Novel SWCNT Loaded Three-Dimensional Porous RVC Composite Electrodes by Electrochemical Deposition Method.

PubMed

Aldalbahi, Ali; Rahaman, Mostafizur; Almoigli, Mohammed; Meriey, Al Yahya; Alharbi, Khalid N

2018-01-01

The three-dimensional (3D) composite electrodes were prepared by depositing different amounts of acid-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (a-SWCNTs) on porous reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) through the electrochemical deposition method. The SWCNT was functionalized by the reflux method in nitric acid and was proven by Raman and visible spectra. The optimum time for sonication to disperse the functionalized SWCNT (a-SWCNT) in dimethyl formamide (DMF) well was determined by UV spectra. The average pore size of RVC electrodes was calculated from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Moreover, the surface morphology of composite electrodes was also examined by SEM study. All 3D electrodes were evaluated for their electrochemical properties by cyclic voltammetry. The result showed that the value of specific capacitance of the electrode increases with the increase in the amount of a-SWCNT in geometric volume. However, the value of specific capacitance per gram decreases with the increase in scan rate as well as the amount of a-SWCNT. The stability of the electrodes was also tested. This revealed that all the electrodes were stable; however, lower a-SWCNT-loaded electrodes had excellent cyclic stability. These results suggest that the a-SWCNT-coated RVC electrodes have promise as an effective technology for desalination.

Role of polymeric binders on mechanical behavior and cracking resistance of silicon composite electrodes during electrochemical cycling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Dawei; Wang, Yikai; Hu, Jiazhi; Lu, Bo; Dang, Dingying; Zhang, Junqian; Cheng, Yang-Tse

2018-05-01

This work focuses on understanding the role of various binders, including sodium alginate (SA), Nafion, and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), on the mechanical behavior and cracking resistance of silicon composite electrodes during electrochemical cycling. In situ curvature measurement of bilayer electrodes, consisting of a silicon-binder-carbon black composite layer on a copper foil, is used to determine the effects of binders on bending deformation, elastic modulus, and stress on the composite electrodes. It is found that the lithiation induced curvature and the modulus of the silicon/SA electrodes are larger than those of electrodes with Nafion and PVDF as binders. Although the modulus of Nafion is smaller than that of PVDF, the curvature and the modulus of silicon/Nafion composite are larger than those of silicon/PVDF electrodes. The moduli of all three composites decrease not only during lithiation but also during delithiation. Based on the measured stress and scanning electron microscopy observations of cracking in the composite electrodes, we conclude that the stress required to crack the composite electrodes with SA and Nafion binders is considerably higher than that of the silicon/PVDF electrode during electrochemical cycling. Thus, the cracking resistance of silicon/SA and silicon/Nafion composite electrodes is higher than that of silicon/PVDF electrodes.

Ionic polymer metal composites with nanoporous carbon electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palmre, Viljar; Brandell, Daniel; Mäeorg, Uno; Torop, Janno; Volobujeva, Olga; Punning, Andres; Johanson, Urmas; Aabloo, Alvo

2010-04-01

Ionic Polymer Metal Composites (IPMCs) are soft electroactive polymer materials that bend in response to the voltage stimulus (1 - 4 V). They can be used as actuators or sensors. In this paper, we introduce two new highly-porous carbon materials for assembling high specific area electrodes for IPMC actuators and compare their electromechanical performance with recently reported IPMCs based on RuO2 electrodes. We synthesize ionic liquid (Emi-Tf) actuators with either Carbide-Derived Carbon (CDC) (derived from TiC) or coconut shell based activated carbon electrodes. The carbon electrodes are applied onto ionic liquid-swollen Nafion membranes using the direct assembly process. Our results show that actuators assembled with CDC electrodes have the greatest peak-to-peak strain output, reaching up to 20.4 mɛ (equivalent to >2%) at a 2 V actuation signal, exceeding that of the RuO2 electrodes by more than 100%. The electrodes synthesized from TiC-derived carbon also revealed significantly higher maximum strain rate. The differences between the materials are discussed in terms of molecular interactions and mechanisms upon actuation in the different electrodes.

New, Efficient, and Reliable Air Electrode Material for Proton-Conducting Reversible Solid Oxide Cells.

PubMed

Huan, Daoming; Shi, Nai; Zhang, Lu; Tan, Wenzhou; Xie, Yun; Wang, Wanhua; Xia, Changrong; Peng, Ranran; Lu, Yalin

2018-01-17

Driven by the demand to minimize fluctuation in common renewable energies, reversible solid oxide cells (RSOCs) have drawn increasing attention for they can operate either as fuel cells to produce electricity or as electrolysis cells to store electricity. Unfortunately, development of proton-conducting RSOCs (P-RSOCs) faces a major challenge of poor reliability because of the high content of steam involved in air electrode reactions, which could seriously decay the lifetime of air electrode materials. In this work, a very stable and efficient air electrode, SrEu 2 Fe 1.8 Co 0.2 O 7-δ (SEFC) with layer structure, is designed and deployed in P-RSOCs. X-ray diffraction analysis and High-angle annular dark-filed scanning transmission electron microscopy images of SEFC reveal that Sr atoms occupy the center of perovskite slabs, whereas Eu atoms arrange orderly in the rock-salt layer. Such a special structure of SEFC largely depresses its Lewis basicity and therefore its reactivity with steam. Applying the SEFC air electrode, our button switches smoothly between both fuel cell and electrolysis cell (EC) modes with no obvious degradation over a 135 h long-term test under wet H 2 (∼3% H 2 O) and 10% H 2 O-air atmospheres. A record of over 230 h is achieved in the long-term stability test in the EC mode, doubling the longest test that had been previously reported. Besides good stability, SEFC demonstrates great catalytic activity toward air electrode reactions when compared with traditional La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.2 Fe 0.8 O 3-δ air electrodes. This research highlights the potential of stable and efficient P-RSOCs as an important part in a sustainable new energy power system.

5V-class bulk-type all-solid-state rechargeable lithium batteries with electrode-solid electrolyte composite electrodes prepared by aerosol deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iriyama, Yasutoshi; Wadaguchi, Masaki; Yoshida, Koki; Yamamoto, Yuta; Motoyama, Munekazu; Yamamoto, Takayuki

2018-05-01

Composite electrodes (∼9 μm in thickness) composed of 5V-class electrode of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNM) and high Li+ conductive crystalline-glass solid electrolyte (LATP, Ohara Inc.) were prepared at room temperature by aerosol deposition (AD) on platinum sheets. The resultant LNM-LATP composite electrodes were combined with LiPON and Li, and 5V-class bulk-type all-solid-state rechargeable lithium batteries (SSBs) were prepared. The crystallnity of the LNM in the LNM-LATP composite electrode was improved by annealing. Both thermogravimetry-mass spectroscopy analysis and XRD analysis clarified that the side reactions between the LNM and the LATP occurred over 500 °C with oxygen release. From these results, annealing temperature of the LNM-LATP composite electrode system was optimized at 500 °C due to the improved crystallinity of the LNM with avoiding the side-reactions. The SSBs with the composite electrodes (9 μm in thickness, 40 vol% of the LNM) annealed at 500 °C delivered 100 mAh g-1 at 10 μA cm-2 at 100 °C. Degradation of the discharge capacity with the repetition of the charge-discharge reactions was observed, which will originate from large volume change of the LNM (∼6.5%) during the reactions.

A novel method of fabricating carbon nanotubes-polydimethylsiloxane composite electrodes for electrocardiography.

PubMed

Liu, Benyan; Chen, Yingmin; Luo, Zhangyuan; Zhang, Wenzan; Tu, Quan; Jin, Xun

2015-01-01

Polymer-based flexible electrodes are receiving much attention in medical applications due to their good wearing comfort. The current fabrication methods of such electrodes are not widely applied. In this study, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and conductive additives of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were employed to fabricate composite electrodes for electrocardiography (ECG). A three-step dispersion process consisting of ultrasonication, stirring, and in situ polymerization was developed to yield homogenous CNTs-PDMS mixtures. The CNTs-PDMS mixtures were used to fabricate CNTs-PDMS composite electrodes by replica technology. The influence of ultrasonication time and CNT concentration on polymer electrode performance was evaluated by impedance and ECG measurements. The signal amplitude of the electrodes prepared using an ultrasonication time of 12 h and CNT content of 5 wt% was comparable to that of commercial Ag/AgCl electrodes. The polymer electrodes were easily fabricated by conventional manufacturing techniques, indicating a potential advantage of reduced cost for mass production.

Aluminum-carbon composite electrode

DOEpatents

Farahmandi, C. Joseph; Dispennette, John M.

1998-07-07

A high performance double layer capacitor having an electric double layer formed in the interface between activated carbon and an electrolyte is disclosed. The high performance double layer capacitor includes a pair of aluminum impregnated carbon composite electrodes having an evenly distributed and continuous path of aluminum impregnated within an activated carbon fiber preform saturated with a high performance electrolytic solution. The high performance double layer capacitor is capable of delivering at least 5 Wh/kg of useful energy at power ratings of at least 600 W/kg.

Aluminum-carbon composite electrode

DOEpatents

Farahmandi, C.J.; Dispennette, J.M.

1998-07-07

A high performance double layer capacitor having an electric double layer formed in the interface between activated carbon and an electrolyte is disclosed. The high performance double layer capacitor includes a pair of aluminum impregnated carbon composite electrodes having an evenly distributed and continuous path of aluminum impregnated within an activated carbon fiber preform saturated with a high performance electrolytic solution. The high performance double layer capacitor is capable of delivering at least 5 Wh/kg of useful energy at power ratings of at least 600 W/kg. 3 figs.

Low-Cost Flexible Nano-Sulfide/Carbon Composite Counter Electrode for Quantum-Dot-Sensitized Solar Cell

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Cu2S nanocrystal particles were in situ deposited on graphite paper to prepare nano-sulfide/carbon composite counter electrode for CdS/CdSe quantum-dot-sensitized solar cell (QDSC). By optimization of deposition time, photovoltaic conversion efficiency up to 3.08% was obtained. In the meantime, this composite counter electrode was superior to the commonly used Pt, Au and carbon counter electrodes. Electrochemical impedance spectra further confirmed that low charge transfer resistance at counter electrode/electrolyte interface was responsible for this, implied the potential application of this composite counter electrode in high-efficiency QDSC. PMID:20672135

Continuous fabrication of a MnS/Co nanofibrous air electrode for wide integration of rechargeable zinc-air batteries.

PubMed

Wang, Yang; Fu, Jing; Zhang, Yining; Li, Matthew; Hassan, Fathy Mohamed; Li, Guang; Chen, Zhongwei

2017-10-26

Exploring highly efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts toward the oxygen reduction and evolution reactions is essential for the realization of high-performance rechargeable zinc-air batteries. Herein, a novel nanofibrous bifunctional electrocatalyst film, consisting of metallic manganese sulfide and cobalt encapsulated by nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibers (CMS/NCNF), is prepared through a continuous electrospinning method followed by carbonization treatment. The CMS/NCNF bifunctional catalyst shows both comparable ORR and OER performances to those of commercial precious metal-based catalysts. Furthermore, the free-standing CMS/NCNF fibrous thin film is directly used as the air electrode in a solid-state zinc-air battery, which exhibits superior flexibility while retaining stable battery performance at different bending angles. This study provides a versatile design route for the rational design of free-standing bifunctional catalysts for direct use as the air electrode in rechargeable zinc-air batteries.

Supercapacitor electrodes based on polyaniline-silicon nanoparticle composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Qiang; Nayfeh, Munir H.; Yau, Siu-Tung

A composite material formed by dispersing ultrasmall silicon nanoparticles in polyaniline has been used as the electrode material for supercapacitors. Electrochemical characterization of the composite indicates that the nanoparticles give rise to double-layer capacitance while polyaniline produces pseudocapacitance. The composite shows significantly improved capacitance compared to that of polyaniline. The enhanced capacitance results in high power (220 kW kg -1) and energy-storage (30 Wh kg -1) capabilities of the composite material. A prototype supercapacitor using the composite as the charge storage material has been constructed. The capacitor showed the enhanced capacitance and good device stability during 1000 charging/discharging cycles.

Highly efficient flexible optoelectronic devices using metal nanowire-conducting polymer composite transparent electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Eui Dae; Nam, Yun Seok; Seo, Houn; Lee, Bo Ram; Yu, Jae Choul; Lee, Sang Yun; Kim, Ju-Young; Park, Jang-Ung; Song, Myoung Hoon

2015-09-01

Here, we report a comprehensive analysis of the electrical, optical, mechanical, and surface morphological properties of composite nanostrutures based on silver nanowires (AgNW) and PEDOT:PSS conducting polymer for the use as flexible and transparent electrodes. Compared to ITO or the single material of AgNW or PEDOT:PSS, the AgNW/PEDOT:PSS composite electrode showed high electrical conductivity with a low sheet resistance of 26.8 Ω/sq at 91% transmittance (at 550 nm), improves surface smoothness, and enhances mechanical properties assisted by an amphiphilic fluoro-surfactant. The polymeric light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) and organic solar cells (OSCs) using the AgNW/PEDOT:PSS composite electrode showed higher device performances than those with AgNW and PEDOT:PSS electrodes and excellent flexibility under bending test. These results indicates that the AgNW/PEDOT:PSS composite presented is a good candidate as next-generation transparent elelctrodes for applications into flexible optoelectronic devices. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Effect of Fe2O3 and Binder on the Electrochemical Properties of Fe2O3/AB (Acetylene Black) Composite Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anh, Trinh Tuan; Thuan, Vu Manh; Thang, Doan Ha; Hang, Bui Thi

2017-06-01

In an effort to find the best anode material for Fe/air batteries, a Fe2O3/AB (Acetylene Black) composite was prepared by dry-type ball milling using Fe2O3 nanoparticles and AB as the active and additive materials, respectively. The effects of various binders and Fe2O3 content on the electrochemical properties of Fe2O3/AB electrodes in alkaline solution were investigated. It was found that the content of Fe2O3 strongly affected the electrochemical behavior of Fe2O3/AB electrodes; with Fe2O3 nanopowder content reaching 70 wt.% for the electrode and showing improvement of the cyclability. When the electrode binder polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) was used, clear redox peaks were observed via cyclic voltammetry (CV), while polyvinylidene fluoride-containing electrodes provided CV curves with unobservable redox peaks. Increasing either binder content in the electrode showed a negative effect in terms of the cyclability of the Fe2O3/AB electrode.

Nanostructured carbon-metal oxide composite electrodes for supercapacitors: a review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhi, Mingjia; Xiang, Chengcheng; Li, Jiangtian; Li, Ming; Wu, Nianqiang

2012-12-01

This paper presents a review of the research progress in the carbon-metal oxide composites for supercapacitor electrodes. In the past decade, various carbon-metal oxide composite electrodes have been developed by integrating metal oxides into different carbon nanostructures including zero-dimensional carbon nanoparticles, one-dimensional nanostructures (carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers), two-dimensional nanosheets (graphene and reduced graphene oxides) as well as three-dimensional porous carbon nano-architectures. This paper has described the constituent, the structure and the properties of the carbon-metal oxide composites. An emphasis is placed on the synergistic effects of the composite on the performance of supercapacitors in terms of specific capacitance, energy density, power density, rate capability and cyclic stability. This paper has also discussed the physico-chemical processes such as charge transport, ion diffusion and redox reactions involved in supercapacitors.

Nanostructured carbon-metal oxide composite electrodes for supercapacitors: a review.

PubMed

Zhi, Mingjia; Xiang, Chengcheng; Li, Jiangtian; Li, Ming; Wu, Nianqiang

2013-01-07

This paper presents a review of the research progress in the carbon-metal oxide composites for supercapacitor electrodes. In the past decade, various carbon-metal oxide composite electrodes have been developed by integrating metal oxides into different carbon nanostructures including zero-dimensional carbon nanoparticles, one-dimensional nanostructures (carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers), two-dimensional nanosheets (graphene and reduced graphene oxides) as well as three-dimensional porous carbon nano-architectures. This paper has described the constituent, the structure and the properties of the carbon-metal oxide composites. An emphasis is placed on the synergistic effects of the composite on the performance of supercapacitors in terms of specific capacitance, energy density, power density, rate capability and cyclic stability. This paper has also discussed the physico-chemical processes such as charge transport, ion diffusion and redox reactions involved in supercapacitors.

Stable angular emission spectra in white organic light-emitting diodes using graphene/PEDOT:PSS composite electrode.

PubMed

Cho, Hyunsu; Lee, Hyunkoo; Lee, Jonghee; Sung, Woo Jin; Kwon, Byoung-Hwa; Joo, Chul-Woong; Shin, Jin-Wook; Han, Jun-Han; Moon, Jaehyun; Lee, Jeong-Ik; Cho, Seungmin; Cho, Nam Sung

2017-05-01

In this work, we suggest a graphene/ poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) composite as a transparent electrode for stabilizing white emission of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Graphene/PEDOT:PSS composite electrodes have increased reflectance when compared to graphene itself, but their reflectance is still lower than that of ITO itself. Changes in the reflectance of the composite electrode have the advantage of suppressing the angular spectral distortion of white emission OLEDs and achieving an efficiency of 16.6% for white OLEDs, comparable to that achieved by graphene-only electrodes. By controlling the OLED structure to compensate for the two-beam interference effect, the CIE color coordinate change (Δxy) of OLEDs based on graphene/PEDOT:PSS composite electrodes is 0.018, less than that based on graphene-only electrode, i.e.,0.027.

In Situ Multilength-Scale Tracking of Dimensional and Viscoelastic Changes in Composite Battery Electrodes.

PubMed

Dargel, Vadim; Jäckel, Nicolas; Shpigel, Netanel; Sigalov, Sergey; Levi, Mikhael D; Daikhin, Leonid; Presser, Volker; Aurbach, Doron

2017-08-23

Intercalation-induced dimensional changes in a composite battery electrode (comprising a polymeric binder) are one of the major factors limiting electrode cycling performance. Since electrode performance is expressed by the quantities averaged over its entire surface area (e.g., capacity retention, Faradaic efficiency, rate capability), significant efforts have been made to develop a methodology allowing its facile mechanical diagnostics at the same areal scale. Herein we introduce such a generic methodology for a highly sensitive in situ monitoring of intrinsic mechanical properties of composite battery electrodes. The gravimetric, dimensional, viscoelastic, and adhesive changes in the composite electrodes caused by Li-ions intercalation are assessed noninvasively and in real time by electrochemical quartz-crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (EQCM-D). Multiharmonic acoustic waves generated by EQCM-D penetrate into thin porous electrodes comprising either rigid or a soft binder resulting in frequency and dissipation changes quantified by analytical acoustic load impedance models. As a first demonstration, we used a composite LiFePO 4 (LFP) electrode containing either polyvinylidene dichloride (PVdF) or Na carboximethyl cellulose (NaCMC) as rigid and viscoelastic binders, respectively, in aqueous electrolytes. The intercalation-induced volume changes of LFP electrode were evaluated from a hydrodynamic correction to the mass effect of the intercalated ions for PVdF, and both components of the effective complex shear modulus (i.e., storage and loss moduli) in case of NaCMC binder have been extracted. The sliding friction coefficients for large particles bound at their bottom to the quartz crystal surface (a measure of the adhesion strength of binders) has also been evaluated. Tracking the mechanical properties of the composite electrodes in different environments and charging/cycling conditions in a self-consistent manner provides all necessary conditions

Method for uniformly distributing carbon flakes in a positive electrode, the electrode made thereby and compositions

DOEpatents

Mrazek, Franklin C.; Smaga, John A.; Battles, James E.

1983-01-01

A positive electrode for a secondary electrochemical cell wherein an electrically conductive current collector is in electrical contact with a particulate mixture of gray cast iron and an alkali metal sulfide and an electrolyte including alkali metal halides or alkaline earth metal halides. Also present may be a transition metal sulfide and graphite flakes from the conversion of gray cast iron to iron sulfide. Also disclosed is a method of distributing carbon flakes in a cell wherein there is formed an electrochemical cell of a positive electrode structure of the type described and a suitable electrolyte and a second electrode containing a material capable of alloying with alkali metal ions. The cell is connected to a source of electrical potential to electrochemically convert gray cast iron to an iron sulfide and uniformly to distribute carbon flakes formerly in the gray cast iron throughout the positive electrode while forming an alkali metal alloy in the negative electrode. Also disclosed are compositions useful in preparing positive electrodes.

Reduced Graphene Oxide/Carbon Nanotube Composites as Electrochemical Energy Storage Electrode Applications.

PubMed

Yang, Wenyao; Chen, Yan; Wang, Jingfeng; Peng, Tianjun; Xu, Jianhua; Yang, Bangchao; Tang, Ke

2018-06-15

We demonstrate an electrochemical reduction method to reduce graphene oxide (GO) to electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) with the assistance of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The faster and more efficient reduction of GO can be achieved after proper addition of CNTs into GO during the reduction process. This nanotube/nanosheet composite was deposited on electrode as active material for electrochemical energy storage applications. It has been found that the specific capacitance of the composite film was strongly affected by the mass ratio of GO/CNTs and the scanning ratio of cyclic voltammetry. The obtained ERGO/CNT composite electrode exhibited a 279.4 F/g-specific capacitance and showed good cycle rate performance with the evidence that the specific capacitance maintained above 90% after 6000 cycles. The synergistic effect between ERGO and CNTs as well as crossing over of CNTs into ERGO is attributed to the high electrochemical performance of composite electrode.

Polyaniline modified graphene and carbon nanotube composite electrode for asymmetric supercapacitors of high energy density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Qian; Tang, Jie; Shinya, Norio; Qin, Lu-Chang

2013-11-01

Graphene and single-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) composites are explored as the electrodes for supercapacitors by coating polyaniline (PANI) nano-cones onto the graphene/CNT composite to obtain graphene/CNT-PANI composite electrode. The graphene/CNT-PANI electrode is assembled with a graphene/CNT electrode into an asymmetric pseudocapacitor and a highest energy density of 188 Wh kg-1 and maximum power density of 200 kW kg-1 are achieved. The structure and morphology of the graphene/CNT composite and the PANI nano-cone coatings are characterized by both scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The excellent performance of the assembled supercapacitors is also discussed and it is attributed to (i) effective utilization of the large surface area of the three-dimensional network structure of graphene-based composite, (ii) the presence of CNT in the composite preventing graphene from re-stacking, and (ii) uniform and vertically aligned PANI coating on graphene offering increased electrical conductivity.

Effects of atmospheric air plasma treatment of graphite and carbon felt electrodes on the anodic current from Shewanella attached cells.

PubMed

Epifanio, Monica; Inguva, Saikumar; Kitching, Michael; Mosnier, Jean-Paul; Marsili, Enrico

2015-12-01

The attachment of electrochemically active microorganisms (EAM) on an electrode is determined by both the chemistry and topography of the electrode surface. Pre-treatment of the electrode surface by atmospheric air plasma introduces hydrophilic functional groups, thereby increasing cell attachment and electroactivity in short-term experiments. In this study, we use graphite and carbon felt electrodes to grow the model EAM Shewanella loihica PV-4 at oxidative potential (0.2 V vs. Ag/AgCl). Cell attachment and electroactivity are measured through electrodynamic methods. Atmospheric air plasma pre-treatment increases cell attachment and current output at graphite electrodes by 25%, while it improves the electroactivity of the carbon felt electrodes by 450%. Air plasma pre-treatment decreased the coulombic efficiency on both carbon felt and graphite electrodes by 60% and 80%, respectively. Microbially produced flavins adsorb preferentially at the graphite electrode, and air plasma pre-treatment results in lower flavin adsorption at both graphite and carbon felt electrodes. Results show that air plasma pre-treatment is a feasible option to increase current output in bioelectrochemical systems. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Flexible polypyrrole/copper sulfide/bacterial cellulose nanofibrous composite membranes as supercapacitor electrodes.

PubMed

Peng, Shuo; Fan, Lingling; Wei, Chengzhuo; Liu, Xiaohong; Zhang, Hongwei; Xu, Weilin; Xu, Jie

2017-02-10

Polypyrrole (PPy) and copper sulfide (CuS) have been successfully deposited on bacterial cellulose (BC) membranes to prepare nanofibrous composite electrodes of PPy/CuS/BC for flexible supercapacitor applications. The introduction of CuS remarkably improves the specific capacitance and cycling stability of BC-based electrodes. The specific capacitance of the supercapacitors based on the PPy/CuS/BC electrodes can reach to about 580Fg -1 at a current density of 0.8mAcm -2 and can retain about 73% of their initial value after 300 cycles, while the PPy/BC-based device could retain only 21.7% after 300 cycles. This work provides a promising approach to fabricate cost-effective and flexible nanofibrous composite membranes for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study of surface atmospheric pressure glow discharge plasma based on ultrathin laminated electrodes in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Luxiang; Liu, Wenzheng; Li, Zhiyi; Ma, Chuanlong

2018-05-01

A method to generate large-area surface plasma in air by micro-discharge is proposed. Two ultrathin laminated electrode structures of non-insulating and insulating types were formed by using the nanoscale ITO conductive layer. The surface glow discharge in atmospheric air is realized in low discharge voltage by constructing the special electric field of two-dimensional unidirectional attenuation. In particular, the insulating electrode structure can avoid the loss of ITO electrodes so that the discharge stability can be increased, and the treated objects can be prevented from metal ion pollution caused by the electrode in the discharge. It has broad application prospects in the fields of aerodynamics and material surface treatment.

Enhanced electrochemical performances with a copper/xylose-based carbon composite electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sirisomboonchai, Suchada; Kongparakul, Suwadee; Nueangnoraj, Khanin; Zhang, Haibo; Wei, Lu; Reubroycharoen, Prasert; Guan, Guoqing; Samart, Chanatip

2018-04-01

Copper/carbon (Cu/C) composites were prepared through the simple and environmentally benign hydrothermal carbonization of xylose in the presence of Cu2+ ions. The morphology, specific surface area, phase structure and chemical composition were investigated. Using a three-electrode system in 0.1 M H2SO4 aqueous electrolyte, the Cu/C composite (10 wt% Cu) heat-treated at 600 °C gave the highest specific capacitance (316.2 and 350.1 F g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 and 20 mV s-1, respectively). The addition of Cu was the major factor in improving the electrochemical performance, enhancing the specific capacitance more than 30 times that of the C without Cu. Therefore, the Cu/C composite presented promising results in improving biomass-based C electrodes for supercapacitors.

BiOCl micro-assembles consisting of ultrafine nanoplates: A high performance electro-catalyst for air electrode of Al-air batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Jinlan; Wang, Jin; She, Yiyi; Hu, Jing; Tao, Pengpeng; Lv, Fucong; Lu, Zhouguang; Gu, Yingying

2014-10-01

BiOCl micro-assembles appearing spherical and plate-like in shape consisting of ultrafine nanoplates were successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The obtained BiOCl micro-assembles were characterized as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalyst for air electrode of aluminum air batteries by using linear polarization and constant-current discharge techniques. The effect of precursor concentration on the electrochemical properties of the air electrodes based on the synthesized BiOCl micro-assembles was intensively investigated. The results demonstrated that the BiOCl catalyst exhibited promising ORR performance. Koutecky-Levich analysis indicated that a two-electron reaction was favored for the ORR mechanism of the BiOCl (0.18) sample.

Method for producing nanowire-polymer composite electrodes

DOEpatents

Pei, Qibing; Yu, Zhibin

2017-11-21

A method for producing flexible, nanoparticle-polymer composite electrodes is described. Conductive nanoparticles, preferably metal nanowires or nanotubes, are deposited on a smooth surface of a platform to produce a porous conductive layer. A second application of conductive nanoparticles or a mixture of nanoparticles can also be deposited to form a porous conductive layer. The conductive layer is then coated with at least one coating of monomers that is polymerized to form a conductive layer-polymer composite film. Optionally, a protective coating can be applied to the top of the composite film. In one embodiment, the monomer coating includes light transducing particles to reduce the total internal reflection of light through the composite film or pigments that absorb light at one wavelength and re-emit light at a longer wavelength. The resulting composite film has an active side that is smooth with surface height variations of 100 nm or less.

Single-walled carbon nanotubes/polymer composite electrodes patterned directly from solution.

PubMed

Chang, Jingbo; Najeeb, Choolakadavil Khalid; Lee, Jae-Hyeok; Kim, Jae-Ho

2011-06-07

This work describes a simple technique for direct patterning of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT)/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT-PSS) composite electrodes in a large area on a substrate based on the solution transfer process by microcontact printing using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) stamps. Various shapes of SWNT/PEDOT-PSS composite patterns, such as line, circle, and square, can be easily fabricated with high pattern fidelity and structural integrity. The single parallel line pattern device exhibits high electrical conductivity (0.75 × 10(5) S/m) and electronic stability because of alignment of nanotubes and big-size SWNT bundles (∼5 nm). The electromechanical study reveals that the composite patterns show ∼1% resistance change along SWNT alignment direction and ∼5% resistance change along vertical alignment direction after 200 bend cycles. Our approach provides a facile, low-cost method to pattern transparent conductive SWNT/polymer composite electrodes and demonstrates a novel platform for future integration of conducting SWNT/polymer composite patterns for optoelectronic applications.

Nickel incorporated carbon nanotube/nanofiber composites as counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Joshi, Prakash; Zhou, Zhengping; Poudel, Prashant; Thapa, Amit; Wu, Xiang-Fa; Qiao, Qiquan

2012-09-21

A nickel incorporated carbon nanotube/nanofiber composite (Ni-CNT-CNF) was used as a low cost alternative to Pt as counter electrode (CE) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). Measurements based on energy dispersive X-rays spectroscopy (EDX) showed that the majority of the composite CE was carbon at 88.49 wt%, while the amount of Ni nanoparticles was about 11.51 wt%. Measurements based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed that the charge transfer resistance (R(ct)) of the Ni-CNT-CNF composite electrode was 0.71 Ω cm(2), much lower than that of the Pt electrode (1.81 Ω cm(2)). Such a low value of R(ct) indicated that the Ni-CNT-CNF composite carried a higher catalytic activity than the traditional Pt CE. By mixing with CNTs and Ni nanoparticles, series resistance (R(s)) of the Ni-CNT-CNF electrode was measured as 5.96 Ω cm(2), which was close to the R(s) of 5.77 Ω cm(2) of the Pt electrode, despite the significant difference in their thicknesses: ∼22 μm for Ni-CNT-CNF composite, while ∼40 nm for Pt film. This indicated that use of a thick layer (tens of microns) of Ni-CNT-CNF counter electrode does not add a significant amount of resistance to the total series resistance (R(s-tot)) in DSCs. The DSCs based on the Ni-CNT-CNF composite CEs yielded an efficiency of 7.96% with a short circuit current density (J(sc)) of 15.83 mA cm(-2), open circuit voltage (V(oc)) of 0.80 V, and fill factor (FF) of 0.63, which was comparable to the device based on Pt, that exhibited an efficiency of 8.32% with J(sc) of 15.01 mA cm(-2), V(oc) of 0.83, and FF of 0.67.

Perspectives on State-of-the-Art Carbon Nanotube/Polyaniline and Graphene/Polyaniline Composites for Hybrid Supercapacitor Electrodes.

PubMed

Srikanth, Vadali V S S; Ramana, Gedela Venkata; Kumar, Puttapati Sampath

2016-03-01

Supercapacitors are attractive alternative energy storage sources. They offer high energy/power density with other characteristics like fast discharge/charge time, long operation stability, safety etc. In a supercapacitor, working electrode material is the principal constituent. At present there are numerous electrode materials (with properties) suitable for their use in hybrid type supercapacitors. Carbon/polyaniline (PANi) composites are one class of such electrode materials. Here, perspectives on state-of-the-art carbon/PANi composites namely carbon nanotube/polyaniline and graphene/polyaniline composites expedient as hybrid type supercapacitor electrode materials will be presented.

Visualization and mechanisms of splashing erosion of electrodes in a DC air arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yi; Cui, Yufei; Rong, Mingzhe; Murphy, Anthony B.; Yang, Fei; Sun, Hao; Niu, Chunping; Fan, Shaodi

2017-11-01

The splashing erosion of electrodes in a DC atmospheric-pressure air arc has been investigated by visualization of the electrode surface and the sputtered droplets, and tracking of the droplet trajectories, using image processing techniques. A particle tracking velocimetry algorithm has been introduced to measure the sputtering velocity distribution. Erosion of both tungsten-copper and tungsten-ceria electrodes is studied; in both cases electrode erosion is found to be dominated by droplet splashing rather than metal evaporation. Erosion is directly influenced by both melting and the formation of plasma jets, and can be reduced by the tuning of the plasma jet and electrode material. The results provide an understanding of the mechanisms that lead to the long lifetime of tungsten-copper electrodes, and may provide a path for the design of the electrode system subjected to electric arc to minimize erosion.

Electrochemical Determination of Pentachlorophenol in Water on a Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes-Epoxy Composite Electrode

PubMed Central

Remes, Adriana; Pop, Aniela; Manea, Florica; Baciu, Anamaria; Picken, Stephen J.; Schoonman, Joop

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was the preparation, characterization, and application of a multi-wall carbon nanotubes-epoxy composite electrode (MWCNT-EP) with 25%, wt. MWCNTs loading for the voltammetric/amperometric determination of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in aqueous solutions. The structural and morphological aspects of the MWCNT-EP composite electrode were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The electrical properties were characterized by direct-current conductivity measurements in relation with the percolation threshold. The electrochemical behavior of PCP at the MWCNT-EP composite electrode was investigated using cyclic voltammetry in 0.1 M Na2SO4 supporting electrolyte in order to establish the parameters for amperometric/voltammetric determination of PCP. The linear dependence of current vs. PCP concentrations was reached in a wide concentration range from 0.2 to 12 μM PCP using cyclic voltammetry, differential-pulsed voltammetry, square-wave voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and multiple-pulsed amperometry techniques. The best electroanalytical performances of this composite electrode were achieved using a pre-concentration/square-wave voltammetric technique and also multiple-pulsed amperometry techniques envisaging the practical applications. The ease of preparation, high sensitivity, and stability of this composite electrode should open novel avenues and applications for fabricating robust sensors for detection of many important species. PMID:22969335

Dispersion of nanocrystalline Fe 3O 4 within composite electrodes: Insights on battery-related electrochemistry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

David C. Bock; Takeuchi, Kenneth J.; Pelliccione, Christopher J.

2016-04-20

Aggregation of nanosized materials in composite lithium-ion-battery electrodes can be a significant factor influencing electrochemical behavior. In this study, aggregation was controlled in magnetite, Fe 3O 4, composite electrodes via oleic acid capping and subsequent dispersion in a carbon black matrix. A heat treatment process was effective in the removal of the oleic acid capping agent while preserving a high degree of Fe 3O 4 dispersion. Electrochemical testing showed that Fe 3O 4 dispersion is initially beneficial in delivering a higher functional capacity, in agreement with continuum model simulations. However, increased capacity fade upon extended cycling was observed for themore » dispersed Fe 3O 4 composites relative to the aggregated Fe 3O 4 composites. X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements of electrodes post cycling indicated that the dispersed Fe 3O 4 electrodes are more oxidized in the discharged state, consistent with reduced reversibility compared with the aggregated sample. Higher charge-transfer resistance for the dispersed sample after cycling suggests increased surface-film formation on the dispersed, high-surface-area nanocrystalline Fe 3O 4 compared to the aggregated materials. Furthermore, this study provides insight into the specific effects of aggregation on electrochemistry through a multiscale view of mechanisms for magnetite composite electrodes.« less

Dispersion of Nanocrystalline Fe 3 O 4 within Composite Electrodes: Insights on Battery-Related Electrochemistry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bock, David C.; Pelliccione, Christopher J.; Zhang, Wei

2016-04-20

Aggregation of nanosized materials in composite lithium-ion-battery electrodes can be a significant factor influencing electrochemical behavior. In this study, aggregation was controlled in magnetite, Fe 3O 4, composite electrodes via oleic acid capping and subsequent dispersion in a carbon black matrix. A heat treatment process was effective in the removal of the oleic acid capping agent while preserving a high degree of Fe 3O 4 dispersion. Electrochemical testing showed that Fe 3O 4 dispersion is initially beneficial in delivering a higher functional capacity, in agreement with continuum model simulations. However, increased capacity fade upon extended cycling was observed for themore » dispersed Fe 3O 4 composites relative to the aggregated Fe 3O 4 composites. X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements of electrodes post cycling indicated that the dispersed Fe 3O 4 electrodes are more oxidized in the discharged state, consistent with reduced reversibility compared with the aggregated sample. Higher charge-transfer resistance for the dispersed sample after cycling suggests increased surface-film formation on the dispersed, high-surface-area nanocrystalline Fe 3O 4 compared to the aggregated materials. This study provides insight into the specific effects of aggregation on electrochemistry through a multiscale view of mechanisms for magnetite composite electrodes.« less

Sulphured Polyacrylonitrile Composite Analysed by in operando UV-Visible Spectroscopy and 4-electrode Swagelok Cell.

PubMed

Dominko, Robert; Patel, Manu U M; Bele, Marjan; Pejovnik, Stane

2016-01-01

The electrochemical characteristics of sulfurized polyacrylonitrile composite (PAN/S) cathodes were compared with the commonly used carbon/S-based composite material. The difference in the working mechanism of these composites was examined. Analytical investigations were performed on both kinds of cathode electrode composites by using two reliable analytical techniques, in-situ UV-Visible spectroscopy and a four-electrode Swagelok cell. This study differentiates the working mechanisms of PAN/S composites from conventional elemental sulphur/carbon composite and also sheds light on factors that could be responsible for capacity fading in the case of PAN/S composites.

Application of a multiwalled carbon nanotube-chitosan composite as an electrode in the electrosorption process for water purification.

PubMed

Ma, Chih-Yu; Huang, Shih-Ching; Chou, Pei-Hsin; Den, Walter; Hou, Chia-Hung

2016-03-01

In this study, a multiwalled carbon nanotubes-chitosan (CNTs-CS) composite electrode was fabricated to enable water purification by electrosorption. The CNTs-CS composite electrode was shown to possess excellent capacitive behaviors and good pore accessibility by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and cyclic voltammetry measurements in 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. Moreover, the CNTs-CS composite electrode showed promising performance for capacitive water desalination. At an electric potential of 1.2 V, the electrosorption capacity and electrosorption rate of NaCl ions on the CNTs-CS composite electrode were determined to be 10.7 mg g(-1) and 0.051 min(-1), respectively, which were considerably higher than those of conventional activated electrodes. The improved electrosorption performance could be ascribed to the existence of mesopores. Additionally, the feasibility of electrosorptive removal of aniline from an aqueous solution has been demonstrated. Upon polarization at 0.6 V, the CNTs-CS composite electrode had a larger electrosorption capacity of 26.4 mg g(-1) and a higher electrosorption rate of 0.006 min(-1) for aniline compared with the open circuit condition. The enhanced adsorption resulted from the improved affinity between aniline and the electrode under electrochemical assistance involving a nonfaradic process. Consequently, the CNT-CS composite electrode, exhibiting typical double-layer capacitor behavior and a sufficient potential range, can be a potential electrode material for application in the electrosorption process. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of graphene/polydopamine/copper foam composite material and its application as supercapacitor electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Y.; Lu, S. X.; Xu, W. G.; He, G.; Cheng, Y. Y.; Xiao, F. Y.; Zhang, Y.

2018-01-01

In this work, a composite electrode was fabricated by chemical deposition of polydopamine (PDA) and graphene oxide (GO) on the copper foam (CF) surface, followed by annealing treatment. Owing to the cohesive effect of the PDA middle film, GO was coated on CF surface successfully, and then reduced simultaneously while annealing. The resulted rGO/PDA/CF composite electrode was directly used as a supercapacitor electrode and exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, with a high specific capacitance of 1250 F g-1 at 2 A g-1 and favorable cycle stability.

Composition suitable for use as inert electrode having good electrical conductivity and mechanical properties

DOEpatents

Ray, S.P.; Rapp, R.A.

1984-06-12

An improved inert electrode composition is suitable for use as an inert electrode in the production of metals such as aluminum by the electrolytic reduction of metal oxide or metal salt dissolved in a molten salt bath. The composition comprises one or more metals or metal alloys and metal compounds which may include oxides of the metals comprising the alloy. The alloy and metal compounds are interwoven in a network which provides improved electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving the level of chemical inertness necessary for such an electrode to function satisfactorily. 8 figs.

Composition suitable for use as inert electrode having good electrical conductivity and mechanical properties

DOEpatents

Ray, Siba P.; Rapp, Robert A.

1984-01-01

An improved inert electrode composition is suitable for use as an inert electrode in the production of metals such as aluminum by the electrolytic reduction of metal oxide or metal salt dissolved in a molten salt bath. The composition comprises one or more metals or metal alloys and metal compounds which may include oxides of the metals comprising the alloy. The alloy and metal compounds are interwoven in a network which provides improved electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving the level of chemical inertness necessary for such an electrode to function satisfactorily.

Nanothorn electrodes for ionic polymer-metal composite artificial muscles

PubMed Central

Palmre, Viljar; Pugal, David; Kim, Kwang J.; Leang, Kam K.; Asaka, Kinji; Aabloo, Alvo

2014-01-01

Ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) have recently received tremendous interest as soft biomimetic actuators and sensors in various bioengineering and human affinity applications, such as artificial muscles and actuators, aquatic propulsors, robotic end-effectors, and active catheters. Main challenges in developing biomimetic actuators are the attainment of high strain and actuation force at low operating voltage. Here we first report a nanostructured electrode surface design for IPMC comprising platinum nanothorn assemblies with multiple sharp tips. The newly developed actuator with the nanostructured electrodes shows a new way to achieve highly enhanced electromechanical performance over existing flat-surfaced electrodes. We demonstrate that the formation and growth of the nanothorn assemblies at the electrode interface lead to a dramatic improvement (3- to 5-fold increase) in both actuation range and blocking force at low driving voltage (1–3 V). These advances are related to the highly capacitive properties of nanothorn assemblies, increasing significantly the charge transport during the actuation process. PMID:25146561

Method for uniformly distributing carbon flakes in a positive electrode, the electrode made thereby and compositions. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Mrazek, F.C.; Smaga, J.A.; Battles, J.E.

1981-01-19

A positive electrode for a secondary electrochemical cell is described wherein an electrically conductive current collector is in electrical contact with a particulate mixture of gray cast iron and an alkali metal sulfide and an electrolyte including alkali metal halides or alkaline earth metal halides. Also present may be a transition metal sulfide and graphite flakes from the conversion of gray cast iron to iron sulfide. Also disclosed is a method of distributing carbon flakes in a cell wherein there is formed an electrochemical cell of a positive electrode structure of the type described and a suitable electrolyte and a second electrode containing a material capable of alloying with alkali metal ions. The cell is connected to a source of electrical potential to electrochemically convert gray cast iron to an iron sulfide and uniformly to distribute carbon flakes formerly in the gray cast iron throughout the positive electrode while forming an alkali metal alloy in the negative electrode. Also disclosed are compositions useful in preparing positive electrodes.

Air-Coupled Ultrasonic Measurements in Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kommareddy, V.; Peters, J. J.; Dayal, V.; Hsu, D. K.

2004-02-01

Air-coupled ultrasound is a non-contact technique and has clear advantages over water-coupled testing. Research of air-coupled ultrasonics, especially using capacitance and micromachined transducers, has been extensively reported in the literature. This paper reports our experience of applying piezoceramic air-coupled transducers for nondestructive evaluation of composites. The beam profiles of air-coupled piezoceramic transducers, with and without apodization, were mapped out. The transmission of air-coupled ultrasonic energy through composite plates of different thickness was measured experimentally; model calculation of the transmission coefficient, taking into account the frequency bandwidth of the transducer, agreed with the measurement results. The occurrence of diffraction phenomenon ("Poisson bright spot") while imaging flaws in composite laminates was investigated. The resolution of scanned images obtained with air-coupled transducers was investigated for different frequency, focusing, and apodization conditions.

Copper-substituted perovskite compositions for solid oxide fuel cell cathodes and oxygen reduction electrodes in other electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Rieke, Peter C [Pasco, WA; Coffey, Gregory W [Richland, WA; Pederson, Larry R [Kennewick, WA; Marina, Olga A [Richland, WA; Hardy, John S [Richland, WA; Singh, Prabhaker [Richland, WA; Thomsen, Edwin C [Richland, WA

2010-07-20

The present invention provides novel compositions that find advantageous use in making electrodes for electrochemical cells. Also provided are electrochemical devices that include active oxygen reduction electrodes, such as solid oxide fuel cells, sensors, pumps and the like. The compositions comprises a copper-substituted ferrite perovskite material. The invention also provides novel methods for making and using the electrode compositions and solid oxide fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cell assemblies having cathodes comprising the compositions.

Li/Ag 2VO 2PO 4 batteries: the roles of composite electrode constituents on electrochemistry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bock, David C.; Bruck, Andrea M.; Pelliccione, Christopher J.

2016-11-01

Silver vanadium phosphorous oxide, Ag 2V 2OPO 4, was used as a model system to systematically study the impact on the constituents of a composite electrode, including polymeric and conductive additives, on electrochemistry. Three different electrode compositions were investigated.

Metal Oxide/Graphene Composites for Supercapacitive Electrode Materials.

PubMed

Jeong, Gyoung Hwa; Baek, Seungmin; Lee, Seungyeol; Kim, Sang-Wook

2016-04-05

Graphene composites with metal or metal oxide nanoparticles have been extensively investigated owing to their potential applications in the fields of fuel cells, batteries, sensing, solar cells, and catalysis. Among them, much research has focused on supercapacitor applications and have come close to realization. Composites include monometal oxides of cobalt, nickel, manganese, and iron, as well as their binary and ternary oxides. In addition, their morphological control and hybrid systems of carbon nanotubes have also been investigated. This review presents the current trends in research on metal oxide/graphene composites for supercapacitors. Furthermore, methods are suggested to improve the properties of electrochemical capacitor electrodes. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Composite electrode/electrolyte structure

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2004-01-27

Provided is an electrode fabricated from highly electronically conductive materials such as metals, metal alloys, or electronically conductive ceramics. The electronic conductivity of the electrode substrate is maximized. Onto this electrode in the green state, a green ionic (e.g., electrolyte) film is deposited and the assembly is co-fired at a temperature suitable to fully densify the film while the substrate retains porosity. Subsequently, a catalytic material is added to the electrode structure by infiltration of a metal salt and subsequent low temperature firing. The invention allows for an electrode with high electronic conductivity and sufficient catalytic activity to achieve high power density in ionic (electrochemical) devices such as fuel cells and electrolytic gas separation systems.

Layer by Layer Ex-Situ Deposited Cobalt-Manganese Oxide as Composite Electrode Material for Electrochemical Capacitor

PubMed Central

Rusi; Chan, P. Y.; Majid, S. R.

2015-01-01

The composite metal oxide electrode films were fabricated using ex situ electrodeposition method with further heating treatment at 300°C. The obtained composite metal oxide film had a spherical structure with mass loading from 0.13 to 0.21 mg cm-2. The structure and elements of the composite was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The electrochemical performance of different composite metal oxides was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (CD). As an active electrode material for a supercapacitor, the Co-Mn composite electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of 285 Fg-1 at current density of 1.85 Ag-1 in 0.5M Na2SO4 electrolyte. The best composite electrode, Co-Mn electrode was then further studied in various electrolytes (i.e., 0.5M KOH and 0.5M KOH/0.04M K3Fe(CN) 6 electrolytes). The pseudocapacitive nature of the material of Co-Mn lead to a high specific capacitance of 2.2 x 103 Fg-1 and an energy density of 309 Whkg-1 in a 0.5MKOH/0.04MK3Fe(CN) 6 electrolyte at a current density of 10 Ag-1. The specific capacitance retention obtained 67% of its initial value after 750 cycles. The results indicate that the ex situ deposited composite metal oxide nanoparticles have promising potential in future practical applications. PMID:26158447

Layer by Layer Ex-Situ Deposited Cobalt-Manganese Oxide as Composite Electrode Material for Electrochemical Capacitor.

PubMed

Rusi; Chan, P Y; Majid, S R

2015-01-01

The composite metal oxide electrode films were fabricated using ex situ electrodeposition method with further heating treatment at 300°C. The obtained composite metal oxide film had a spherical structure with mass loading from 0.13 to 0.21 mg cm(-2). The structure and elements of the composite was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The electrochemical performance of different composite metal oxides was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (CD). As an active electrode material for a supercapacitor, the Co-Mn composite electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of 285 Fg(-1) at current density of 1.85 Ag(-1) in 0.5 M Na2SO4 electrolyte. The best composite electrode, Co-Mn electrode was then further studied in various electrolytes (i.e., 0.5 M KOH and 0.5 M KOH/0.04 M K3Fe(CN) 6 electrolytes). The pseudocapacitive nature of the material of Co-Mn lead to a high specific capacitance of 2.2 x 10(3) Fg(-1) and an energy density of 309 Whkg(-1) in a 0.5 M KOH/0.04 M K3Fe(CN) 6 electrolyte at a current density of 10 Ag(-1). The specific capacitance retention obtained 67% of its initial value after 750 cycles. The results indicate that the ex situ deposited composite metal oxide nanoparticles have promising potential in future practical applications.

Highly selective dopamine electrochemical sensor based on electrochemically pretreated graphite and nafion composite modified screen printed carbon electrode.

PubMed

Ku, Shuhao; Palanisamy, Selvakumar; Chen, Shen-Ming

2013-12-01

Herein, we report a highly selective dopamine electrochemical sensor based on electrochemically pretreated graphite/nafion composite modified screen printed carbon (SPC) electrode. Electrochemically activated graphite/nafion composite was prepared by using a simple electrochemical method. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) used to characterize the surface morphology of the fabricated composite electrode. The SEM result clearly indicates that the graphitic basal planes were totally disturbed and leads to the formation of graphite nanosheets. The composite modified electrode showed an enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of DA when compared with either electrochemical pretreated graphite or nafion SPC electrodes. The fabricated composite electrode exhibits a good electrocatalytic oxidation toward DA in the linear response range from 0.5 to 70 μM with the detection limit of 0.023 μM. The proposed sensor also exhibits very good selectivity and stability, with the appreciable sensitivity. In addition, the proposed sensor showed satisfactory recovery results toward the commercial pharmaceutical DA samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mesoporous metal oxide microsphere electrode compositions and their methods of making

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Parans Paranthaman, Mariappan; Bi, Zhonghe; Bridges, Craig A.

Compositions and methods of making are provided for treated mesoporous metal oxide microspheres electrodes. The compositions include microspheres with an average diameter between about 200 nanometers and about 10 micrometers and mesopores on the surface and interior of the microspheres. The methods of making include forming a mesoporous metal oxide microsphere composition and treating the mesoporous metal oxide microspheres by at least annealing in a reducing atmosphere, doping with an aliovalent element, and coating with a coating composition.

Performance of polyacrylonitrile-carbon nanotubes composite on carbon cloth as electrode material for microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Kim, Sun-Il; Lee, Jae-Wook; Roh, Sung-Hee

2011-02-01

The performance of carbon nanotubes composite-modified carbon cloth electrodes in two-chambered microbial fuel cell (MFC) was investigated. The electrode modified with polyacrylonitrile-carbon nanotubes (PAN-CNTs) composite showed better electrochemical performance than that of plain carbon cloth. The MFC with the composite-modified anode containing 5 mg/cm2 PAN-CNTs exhibited a maximum power density of 480 mW/m2.

The preparation and performance of calcium carbide-derived carbon/polyaniline composite electrode material for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Liping; Wang, Ying; Wang, Xianyou; Li, Na; An, Hongfang; Chen, Huajie; Guo, Jia

Calcium carbide (CaC 2)-derived carbon (CCDC)/polyaniline (PANI) composite materials are prepared by in situ chemical oxidation polymerization of an aniline solution containing well-dispersed CCDC. The structure and morphology of CCDC/PANI composite are characterized by Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and N 2 sorption isotherms. It has been found that PANI was uniformly deposited on the surface and the inner pores of CCDC. The supercapacitive behaviors of the CCDC/PANI composite materials are investigated with cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge and cycle life measurements. The results show that the CCDC/PANI composite electrodes have higher specific capacitances than the as grown CCDC electrodes and higher stability than the conducting polymers. The capacitance of CCDC/PANI composite electrode is as high as 713.4 F g -1 measured by cyclic voltammetry at 1 mV s -1. Besides, the capacitance retention of coin supercapacitor remained 80.1% after 1000 cycles.

Electroadsorption Desalination with Carbon Nanotube/PAN-Based Carbon Fiber Felt Composites as Electrodes

PubMed Central

Liu, Yang; Zhou, Junbo

2014-01-01

The chemical vapor deposition method is used to prepare CNT (carbon nanotube)/PCF (PAN-based carbon fiber felt) composite electrodes in this paper, with the surface morphology of CNT/PCF composites and electroadsorption desalination performance being studied. Results show such electrode materials with three-dimensional network nanostructures having a larger specific surface area and narrower micropore distribution, with a huge number of reactive groups covering the surface. Compared with PCF electrodes, CNT/PCF can allow for a higher adsorption and desorption rate but lower energy consumption; meanwhile, under the condition of the same voltage change, the CNT/PCF electrodes are provided with a better desalination effect. The study also found that the higher the original concentration of the solution, the greater the adsorption capacity and the lower the adsorption rate. At the same time, the higher the solution's pH, the better the desalting; the smaller the ions' radius, the greater the amount of adsorption. PMID:24963504

Carbon/ λ-MnO 2 composites for supercapacitor electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malak-Polaczyk, A.; Matei-Ghimbeu, C.; Vix-Guterl, C.; Frackowiak, E.

2010-04-01

In the present work a composite of carbon with λ-MnO 2 have been synthesized by a simple two-step route. In the first step, to obtain LiMn 2O 4/carbon material, mesoporous activated carbon was impregnated with the solution of precursor metal salts and heated subsequently. As-prepared materials were acid treated which resulted in the formation of λ-MnO 2/carbon. Physical properties, structure and specific surface area of electrode materials were studied by TEM, X-ray diffraction and nitrogen sorption measurements. Voltammetry cycling, galvanostatic charge/discharge and impedance spectroscopy measurements performed in two- and three-electrode cells have been applied in order to measure electrochemical parameters. TEM images confirmed well dispersed λ-MnO 2 particles on the surface of carbon material. The carbon in the composite plays an important role as the surface area enhancing component and a support of pseudocapacitive material. Furthermore, the through-connected porosity serves as a continuous pathway for electrolyte transport. A synergetic effect of the porous carbon framework and of the redox properties of the λ-MnO 2 is at the origin of improvement of specific capacitance values which has been observed for composites after delithiation.

Stability of carbon electrodes for aqueous lithium-air secondary batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohkuma, Hirokazu; Uechi, Ichiro; Matsui, Masaki; Takeda, Yasuo; Yamamoto, Osamu; Imanishi, Nobuyuki

2014-01-01

The air electrode performance of various carbon materials, such as Ketjen black (KB), acetylene black (AB and AB-S), Vulcan XC-72R (VX), and vapor grown carbon fiber (VGCF) with and without La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 (LSCF) catalyst were examined in an aqueous solution of saturated LiOH with 10 M LiCl in the current density range 0.2-2.0 mA cm-2. The best performance for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions was observed for the KB electrode, which has the highest surface area among the carbon materials examined. A steady over-potential of 0.2 V was obtained for the oxygen reduction reaction using the KB electrode without the catalyst, while the over-potential was 0.15 V for KB with the LSCF catalyst at 2.0 mA cm-2. The over-potentials for the oxygen evolution reaction were slightly higher than those for the oxygen reduction reaction, and gradually increased with the polarization period. Analysis of the gas in the cell after polarization above 0.4 V revealed the evolution of a small amount of CO during the oxygen evolution reaction by the decomposition of carbon in the electrode. The amount of CO evolved was significantly decreased by the addition of LSCF to the carbon electrode.

CNT/PDMS composite flexible dry electrodes for long-term ECG monitoring.

PubMed

Jung, Ha-Chul; Moon, Jin-Hee; Baek, Dong-Hyun; Lee, Jae-Hee; Choi, Yoon-Young; Hong, Joung-Sook; Lee, Sang-Hoon

2012-05-01

We fabricated a carbon nanotube (CNT)/ polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite-based dry ECG electrode that can be readily connected to conventional ECG devices, and showed its long-term wearable monitoring capability and robustness to motion and sweat. While the dispersion of CNTs in PDMS is challenging, we optimized the process to disperse untreated CNTs within PDMS by mechanical force only. The electrical and mechanical characteristics of the CNT/PDMS electrode were tested according to the concentration of CNTs and its thickness. The performances of ECG electrodes were evaluated by using 36 types of electrodes which were fabricated with different concentrations of CNTs, and with a differing diameter and thickness. The ECG signals were obtained by using electrodes of diverse sizes to observe the effects of motion and sweat, and the proposed electrode was shown to be robust to both factors. The CNT concentration and diameter of the electrodes were critical parameters in obtaining high-quality ECG signals. The electrode was shown to be biocompatible from the cytotoxicity test. A seven-day continuous wearability test showed that the quality of the ECG signal did not degrade over time, and skin reactions such as itching or erythema were not observed. This electrode could be used for the long-term measurement of other electrical biosignals for ubiquitous health monitoring including EMG, EEG, and ERG.

Facile preparation of molecularly imprinted polypyrrole-graphene-multiwalled carbon nanotubes composite film modified electrode for rutin sensing.

PubMed

Yang, Lite; Yang, Juan; Xu, Bingjie; Zhao, Faqiong; Zeng, Baizhao

2016-12-01

In this paper, a novel molecularly imprinted composite film modified electrode was presented for rutin (RT) detection. The modified electrode was fabricated by electropolymerization of pyrrole on a graphene-multiwalled carbon nanotubes composite (G-MWCNTs) coated glassy carbon electrode in the presence of RT. The netlike G-MWCNTs composite, prepared by in situ hydrothermal process, had high conductivity and electrocatalytic activity. At the resulting MIP/G-MWCNTs/GCE electrode RT could produce a sensitive anodic peak in pH 1.87 Britton-Robinson buffer solution. The factors affecting the electrochemical behavior and response of RT on the modified electrode were carefully investigated and optimized. Under the selected conditions, the linear response range of RT was 0.01-1.0μmolL -1 and the detection limit (S/N=3) was 5.0nmolL -1 . The electrode was successfully applied to the determination of RT in buckwheat tea and orange juice samples, and the recoveries for standards added were 93.4-105%. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polyvinylpyrrolidone/polyvinyl butyral composite as a stable binder for castable supercapacitor electrodes in aqueous electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aslan, M.; Weingarth, D.; Herbeck-Engel, P.; Grobelsek, I.; Presser, V.

2015-04-01

Mixtures of polyvinylpyrrolidone/polyvinyl butyral (PVP/PVB) are attractive binders for the preparation of carbon electrodes for aqueous electrolyte supercapacitors. The use of PVP/PVB offers several key advantages: They are soluble in ethanol and can be used to spray coat or drain cast activated carbon (AC) electrodes directly on a current collector. Infrared spectroscopy and contact angle measurements show that the PVP-to-PVB ratio determines the degree of binder hydrophilicity. Within our study, the most favorable performance was obtained for AC electrodes with a composition of AC + 1.5 mass% PVP + 6.0 mass% PVB; such electrodes were mechanically stabile and water resistant with a PVP release of less than 5% of total PVP while PVB itself is water insoluble. Compared to when using PVDF, the specific surface area (SSA) of the assembled electrodes was 10% higher, indicating a reduced pore blocking tendency. A good electrochemical performance was observed in different aqueous electrolytes for composite electrodes with the optimized binder composition: 160 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 for 1 M H2SO4 and 6 M KOH and 120 F g-1 for 1 M NaCl. The capacitance was slightly reduced by 2.5% after cycling to 1.2 V with 1.28 A g-1 in 1 M NaCl for 10,000 times.

Fast fabrication of NiO@graphene composites for supercapacitor electrodes: Combination of reduction and deposition.

PubMed

Hui, Xu; Qian, Luming; Harris, Gary; Wang, Tongxin; Che, Jianfei

2016-11-05

Graphene-based inorganic composites have been attracting more and more attention since the attachment of inorganic nanoparticles instead of conducting polymeric materials to graphene sheets turns out higher capacitances and good capacity retention. Here we report a fast fabrication method to prepare NiO@graphene composite modified electrodes for supercapacitors. By this method, preparation of electrochemical active materials of NiO/graphene and modification of the electrode can be simultaneously performed, which is achieved separately by traditional method. Moreover, the problem of poor adhesion of active materials on the surface of the electrode can be well solved. The NiO particles introduced to the films exhibit pseudocapacitive behavior arising from the reversible Faradaic transitions of Ni(II)/Ni(III) and greatly improve the capacitance of the electrodes. With the increase in NiO content, highly reduced graphene can be obtained during cyclic voltammetry sweeping, leading to the increase in the electrode capacitance. The highest specific capacitance of the constructed electrodes can reach 1258 F/g at a current density of 5 A/g.

Electrode Configurations in Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lietz, Amanda M.; Kushner, Mark J.

2016-09-01

Atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) are being studied for emerging medical applications including cancer treatment and wound healing. APPJs typically consist of a dielectric tube through which a rare gas flows, sometimes with an O2 or H2O impurity. In this paper, we present results from a computational study of APPJs using nonPDPSIM, a 2-D plasma hydrodynamics model, with the goal of providing insights on how the placement of electrodes can influence the production of reactive species. Gas consisting of He/O2 = 99.5/0.5 is flowed through a capillary tube at 2 slpm into humid air, and a pulsed DC voltage is applied. An APPJ with two external ring electrodes will be compared with one having a powered electrode inside and a ground electrode on the outside. The consequences on ionization wave propagation and the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) will be discussed. Changing the electrode configuration can concentrate the power deposition in volumes having different gas composition, resulting in different RONS production. An internal electrode can result in increased production of NOx and HNOx by increasing propagation of the ionization wave through the He dominated plume to outside of the tube where humid air is diffusing into the plume. Work supported by US DOE Office of Fusion Energy Science and the National Science Foundation.

Composite electrochemical biosensors: a comparison of three different electrode matrices for the construction of amperometric tyrosinase biosensors.

PubMed

Serra, B; Jiménez, S; Mena, M L; Reviejo, A J; Pingarrón, J M

2002-03-01

A comparison of the behaviour of three different rigid composite matrices for the construction of amperometric tyrosinase biosensors, which are widely used for the detection of phenolic compounds, is reported. The composite electrode matrices were, graphite-Teflon; reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC)-epoxy resin; and graphite-ethylene/propylene/diene (EPD) terpolymer. After optimization of the experimental conditions, different aspects regarding the stability of the three composite tyrosinase electrode designs were considered and compared. A better reproducibility of the amperometric responses was found with the graphite-EPD electrodes, whereas a longer useful lifetime was observed for the graphite-Teflon electrodes. The kinetic parameters of the tyrosinase reaction were calculated for eight different phenolic compounds, as well as their corresponding calibration plots. The general trend in sensitivity was graphite-EPD>graphite-Teflon>RVC-epoxy resin. A correlation between sensitivity and the catalytic efficiency of the enzyme reaction for each phenolic substrate was found. Furthermore, differences in the sensitivity order for the phenolic compounds were observed among the three biocomposite electrodes, which suggests that the nature of the electrode matrix influences the interactions in the tyrosinase catalytic cycle.

RuO2/Activated Carbon Composite Electrode Prepared by Modified Colloidal Procedure and Thermal Decomposition Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang; Zheng, Feng; Gan, Weiping; Luo, Xun

2016-01-01

RuO2/activated carbon (AC) composite electrode was prepared by a modified colloidal procedure and a thermal decomposition method. The precursor for RuO2/AC was coated on tantalum sheet and annealed at 150°C to 190°C for 3 h to develop thin-film electrode. The microstructure and morphology of the RuO2/AC film were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The TGA results showed the maximum loss of RuO2/AC composite film at 410°C, with residual RuO2 of 23.17 wt.%. The amorphous phase structure of the composite was verified by XRD analysis. SEM analysis revealed that fine RuO2 particles were dispersed in an activated carbon matrix after annealing. The electrochemical properties of RuO2/AC electrode were examined by cycling voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and cyclic behavior measurements. The specific capacitance of RuO2/AC electrode reached 245 F g-1. The cyclic behavior of RuO2/AC electrode was stable. Optimal annealing was achieved at 170°C for 3 h.

Composite Manganese Oxide Percolating Networks As a Suspension Electrode for an Asymmetric Flow Capacitor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hatzell, Kelsey B.; Fan, Lei; Beidaghi, Majid

2014-05-05

In this study, we examine the use of a percolating network of metal oxide (MnO2) as the active material in a suspension electrode as a way to increase the capacitance and energy density of an electrochemical flow capacitor. Amorphous manganese oxide was synthesized via a low-temperature hydrothermal approach and combined with carbon black to form composite flowable electrodes of different compositions. All suspension electrodes were tested in static configurations and consisted of an active solid material (MnO2 or activated carbon) immersed in aqueous neutral electrolyte (1 M Na2SO4). Increasing concentrations of carbon black led to better rate performance but atmore » the cost of capacitance and viscosity. Furthermore, it was shown that an expanded voltage window of 1.6 V could be achieved when combining a composite MnO2-carbon black (cathode) and an activated carbon suspension (anode) in a charge balanced asymmetric device. The expansion of the voltage window led to a significant increase in the energy density to ~11 Wh kg–1 at a power density of ~50 W kg–1. These values are ~3.5 times and ~2 times better than a symmetric suspension electrode based on activated carbon.« less

High surface area, low weight composite nickel fiber electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Bradley A.; Ferro, Richard E.; Swain, Greg M.; Tatarchuk, Bruce J.

1993-01-01

The energy density and power density of light weight aerospace batteries utilizing the nickel oxide electrode are often limited by the microstructures of both the collector and the resulting active deposit in/on the collector. Heretofore, these two microstructures were intimately linked to one another by the materials used to prepare the collector grid as well as the methods and conditions used to deposit the active material. Significant weight and performance advantages were demonstrated by Britton and Reid at NASA-LeRC using FIBREX nickel mats of ca. 28-32 microns diameter. Work in our laboratory investigated the potential performance advantages offered by nickel fiber composite electrodes containing a mixture of fibers as small as 2 microns diameter (Available from Memtec America Corporation). These electrode collectors possess in excess of an order of magnitude more surface area per gram of collector than FIBREX nickel. The increase in surface area of the collector roughly translates into an order of magnitude thinner layer of active material. Performance data and advantages of these thin layer structures are presented. Attributes and limitations of their electrode microstructure to independently control void volume, pore structure of the Ni(OH)2 deposition, and resulting electrical properties are discussed.

Solid phase microbial fuel cell (SMFC) for harnessing bioelectricity from composite food waste fermentation: influence of electrode assembly and buffering capacity.

PubMed

Mohan, S Venkata; Chandrasekhar, K

2011-07-01

Solid phase microbial fuel cells (SMFC; graphite electrodes; open-air cathode) were designed to evaluate the potential of bioelectricity production by stabilizing composite canteen based food waste. The performance was evaluated with three variable electrode-membrane assemblies. Experimental data depicted feasibility of bioelectricity generation from solid state fermentation of food waste. Distance between the electrodes and presence of proton exchange membrane (PEM) showed significant influence on the power yields. SMFC-B (anode placed 5 cm from cathode-PEM) depicted good power output (463 mV; 170.81 mW/m(2)) followed by SMFC-C (anode placed 5 cm from cathode; without PEM; 398 mV; 53.41 mW/m(2)). SMFC-A (PEM sandwiched between electrodes) recorded lowest performance (258 mV; 41.8 mW/m(2)). Sodium carbonate amendment documented marked improvement in power yields due to improvement in the system buffering capacity. SMFCs operation also documented good substrate degradation (COD, 76%) along with bio-ethanol production. The operation of SMFC mimicked solid-sate fermentation which might lead to sustainable solid waste management practices. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimization of NiFe2O4/rGO composite electrode for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Chen; Wang, Xia; Li, Shandong; Li, Qiang; Xu, Jie; Liu, Xiaomin; Liu, Changkun; Xu, Yuanhong; Liu, Jingquan; Li, Hongliang; Guo, Peizhi; Zhao, Xiu Song

2017-09-01

The combination of carbon compositing and the proper choice of binders in one system offer an effective strategy for improving electrode performance for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). Here, we focus on the optimization of reduced graphene oxide content in NiFe2O4/reduced graphene oxide (abbreviated to NiFe2O4/rGO) composites and the proper choice of binders to enhance the cycling stability of the NiFe2O4 electrode. The NiFe2O4/rGO composites were fabricated by a hydrothermal-annealing method, in which the mean size of spinel NiFe2O4 nanoparticles was approximately 20 nm. When tested as anode materials for LIBs, the NiFe2O4/rGO electrodes with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) binder exhibited excellent lithium-storage performance including high reversible capacity, good cycling durability and high-rate capability. The capacity could be retained as high as 1105 mAh g-1 at a current density of 100 mA g-1 for over 50 cycles, even cycled at higher current density of 1000 mA g-1, a capacity of 800 mAh g-1can be obtained, whereas the electrode with the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binder suffered from rapid capacity decay under the same test conditions. As a result, the NiFe2O4/rGO composites with CMC binder electrode in this work are promising as anodes for high-performance LIBs, resulting from the synergistic effect of optimal graphene content and proper choice of binder.

Electrochemical studies on nanometal oxide-activated carbon composite electrodes for aqueous supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Mui Yen; Khiew, Poi Sim; Isa, Dino; Chiu, Wee Siong

2014-11-01

In present study, the electrochemical performance of eco-friendly and cost-effective titanium oxide (TiO2)-based and zinc oxide-based nanocomposite electrodes were studied in neutral aqueous Na2SO3 electrolyte, respectively. The electrochemical properties of these composite electrodes were studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge (CD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The experimental results reveal that these two nanocomposite electrodes achieve the highest specific capacitance at fairly low oxide loading onto activated carbon (AC) electrodes, respectively. Considerable enhancement of the electrochemical properties of TiO2/AC and ZnO/AC nanocomposite electrodes is achieved via synergistic effects contributed from the nanostructured metal oxides and the high surface area mesoporous AC. Cations and anions from metal oxides and aqueous electrolyte such as Ti4+, Zn2+, Na+ and SO32- can occupy some pores within the high-surface-area AC electrodes, forming the electric double layer at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Additionally, both TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles can provide favourable surface adsorption sites for SO32- anions which subsequently facilitate the faradaic processes for pseudocapacitive effect. These two systems provide the low cost material electrodes and the low environmental impact electrolyte which offer the increased charge storage without compromising charge storage kinetics.

Composite electrodes of activated carbon derived from cassava peel and carbon nanotubes for supercapacitor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taer, E.; Iwantono, Yulita, M.; Taslim, R.; Subagio, A.; Salomo, Deraman, M.

2013-09-01

In this paper, a composite electrode was prepared from a mixture of activated carbon derived from precarbonization of cassava peel (CP) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The activated carbon was produced by pyrolysis process using ZnCl2 as an activation agent. A N2 adsorption-desorption analysis for the sample indicated that the BET surface area of the activated carbon was 1336 m2 g-1. Difference percentage of CNTs of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% with 5% of PVDF binder were added into CP based activated carbon in order to fabricate the composite electrodes. The morphology and structure of the composite electrodes were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The SEM image observed that the distribution of CNTs was homogeneous between carbon particles and the XRD pattern shown the amorphous structure of the sample. The electrodes were fabricated for supercapacitor cells with 316L stainless steel as current collector and 1 M sulfuric acid as electrolyte. An electrochemical characterization was performed by using an electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method using a Solatron 1286 instrument and the addition of CNTs revealed to improve the resistant and capacitive properties of supercapacitor cell.

A lithium air battery with a lithiated Al-carbon anode.

PubMed

Guo, Ziyang; Dong, XiaoLi; Wang, Yonggang; Xia, Yongyao

2015-01-14

A lithiated Al-carbon composite electrode with a uniform SEI film was prepared by an electrochemical method, and was then coupled with an O2 catalytic electrode to form a rechargeable Li-O2 (or air) battery with a LixAl-C anode.

Photoelectrochemical Properties of CuS-GeO2-TiO2 Composite Coating Electrode

PubMed Central

Wen, Xinyu; Zhang, Huawei

2016-01-01

The ITO (indium tin oxide) conductive glass-matrix CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating was generated via EPD (electrophoretic deposition) and followed by a sintering treatment at 450°C for 40 minutes. Characterizations of the CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating were taken by SEM (scanning electron microscope), XRD (X-ray diffraction), EDX (energy dispersive X-ray), UV-Vis DRS (ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectrum), and FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy). Results showed that CuS and GeO2 had dispersed in this CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating (mass percentages for CuS and GeO2 were 1.23% and 2.79%, respectively). The electrochemical studies (cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel polarization) of this CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating electrode were performed in pH = 9.51 Na2CO3-NaHCO3 buffer solution containing 0.50 mol/L CH3OH under the conditions of visible light, ultraviolet light (λ = 365 nm), and dark (without light irradiation as control), respectively. Electrochemical studies indicated that this CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating electrode had better photoelectrocatalytic activity than the pure TiO2 electrode in the electrocatalysis of methanol under visible light. PMID:27055277

Photoelectrochemical Properties of CuS-GeO2-TiO2 Composite Coating Electrode.

PubMed

Wen, Xinyu; Zhang, Huawei

2016-01-01

The ITO (indium tin oxide) conductive glass-matrix CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating was generated via EPD (electrophoretic deposition) and followed by a sintering treatment at 450°C for 40 minutes. Characterizations of the CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating were taken by SEM (scanning electron microscope), XRD (X-ray diffraction), EDX (energy dispersive X-ray), UV-Vis DRS (ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectrum), and FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy). Results showed that CuS and GeO2 had dispersed in this CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating (mass percentages for CuS and GeO2 were 1.23% and 2.79%, respectively). The electrochemical studies (cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel polarization) of this CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating electrode were performed in pH = 9.51 Na2CO3-NaHCO3 buffer solution containing 0.50 mol/L CH3OH under the conditions of visible light, ultraviolet light (λ = 365 nm), and dark (without light irradiation as control), respectively. Electrochemical studies indicated that this CuS-GeO2-TiO2 composite coating electrode had better photoelectrocatalytic activity than the pure TiO2 electrode in the electrocatalysis of methanol under visible light.

Method of making composition suitable for use as inert electrode having good electrical conductivity and mechanical properties

DOEpatents

Ray, S.P.; Rapp, R.A.

1986-04-22

An improved inert electrode composition is suitable for use as an inert electrode in the production of metals such as aluminum by the electrolytic reduction of metal oxide or metal salt dissolved in a molten salt bath. The composition comprises one or more metals or metal alloys and metal compounds which may include oxides of the metals comprising the alloy. The alloy and metal compounds are interwoven in a network which provides improved electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving the level of chemical inertness necessary for such an electrode to function satisfactorily. 8 figs.

Method of making composition suitable for use as inert electrode having good electrical conductivity and mechanical properties

DOEpatents

Ray, Siba P.; Rapp, Robert A.

1986-01-01

An improved inert electrode composition is suitable for use as an inert electrode in the production of metals such as aluminum by the electrolytic reduction of metal oxide or metal salt dissolved in a molten salt bath. The composition comprises one or more metals or metal alloys and metal compounds which may include oxides of the metals comprising the alloy. The alloy and metal compounds are interwoven in a network which provides improved electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving the level of chemical inertness necessary for such an electrode to function satisfactorily.

In situ multi-length scale approach to understand the mechanics of soft and rigid binder in composite lithium ion battery electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jäckel, Nicolas; Dargel, Vadim; Shpigel, Netanel; Sigalov, Sergey; Levi, Mikhael D.; Daikhin, Leonid; Aurbach, Doron; Presser, Volker

2017-12-01

Intercalation-induced dimensional changes of composite battery electrodes containing either a stiff or a soft polymeric binder is one of the many factors determining the cycling performance and ageing. Herein, we report dimensional changes in bulk composite electrodes by in situ electrochemical dilatometry (eD) combined with electrochemical quartz-crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (EQCM-D). The latter tracks the mechanical properties on the level of the electrode particle size. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP) electrodes with a stiff binder (PVdF) and a soft binder (NaCMC) were investigated by cycling in lithium sulfate (Li2SO4) aqueous solution. The electrochemical and mechanical electrode performances depend on the electrode cycling history. Based on combined eD and EQCM-D measurements we provide evidence which properties are preferred for a binder used for a composite Li-ion battery electrode.

Grid indentation analysis of mechanical properties of composite electrodes in Li-ion batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vasconcelos, Luize Scalco de; Xu, Rong; Li, Jianlin

We report that electrodes in commercial rechargeable batteries are microscopically heterogeneous materials. The constituent components, including active materials, polymeric binders, and porous conductive matrix, often have large variation in their mechanical properties, making the mechanical characterization of composite electrodes a challenging task. In a model system of LiNi 0.5Mn 0.3Co 0.2O 2 cathode, we employ the instrumented grid indentation to determine the elastic modulus and hardness of the constituent phases. The approach relies on a large array of nanoindentation experiments and statistical analysis of the resulting data provided that the maximum indentation depth is carefully chosen. The statistically extracted propertiesmore » of the active particles and the surrounding medium are in good agreement with the tests of targeted indentation at selected sites. Lastly, the combinatory technique of grid indentation and statistical deconvolution represents a fast and reliable route to quantify the mechanical properties of composite electrodes that feed the parametric input for the mechanics models.« less

Grid indentation analysis of mechanical properties of composite electrodes in Li-ion batteries

DOE PAGES

Vasconcelos, Luize Scalco de; Xu, Rong; Li, Jianlin; ...

2016-03-09

We report that electrodes in commercial rechargeable batteries are microscopically heterogeneous materials. The constituent components, including active materials, polymeric binders, and porous conductive matrix, often have large variation in their mechanical properties, making the mechanical characterization of composite electrodes a challenging task. In a model system of LiNi 0.5Mn 0.3Co 0.2O 2 cathode, we employ the instrumented grid indentation to determine the elastic modulus and hardness of the constituent phases. The approach relies on a large array of nanoindentation experiments and statistical analysis of the resulting data provided that the maximum indentation depth is carefully chosen. The statistically extracted propertiesmore » of the active particles and the surrounding medium are in good agreement with the tests of targeted indentation at selected sites. Lastly, the combinatory technique of grid indentation and statistical deconvolution represents a fast and reliable route to quantify the mechanical properties of composite electrodes that feed the parametric input for the mechanics models.« less

Mechanical Degradation of Graphite/PVDF Composite Electrodes: A Model-Experimental Study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Takahashi, Kenji; Higa, Kenneth; Mair, Sunil

2015-12-11

Mechanical failure modes of a graphite/polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) composite electrode for lithium-ion batteries were investigated by combining realistic stress-stain tests and mathematical model predictions. Samples of PVDF mixed with conductive additive were prepared in a similar way to graphite electrodes and tested while submerged in electrolyte solution. Young's modulus and tensile strength values of wet samples were found to be approximately one-fifth and one-half of those measured for dry samples. Simulations of graphite particles surrounded by binder layers given the measured material property values suggest that the particles are unlikely to experience mechanical damage during cycling, but that the fatemore » of the surrounding composite of PVDF and conductive additive depends completely upon the conditions under which its mechanical properties were obtained. Simulations using realistic property values produced results that were consistent with earlier experimental observations.« less

Electrochemical Synthesis of Graphene/MnO2 Nano-Composite for Application to Supercapacitor Electrode.

PubMed

Jeong, Kwang Ho; Lee, Hyeon Jeong; Simpson, Michael F; Jeong, Mun

2016-05-01

Graphene/MnO2 nano-composite was electrochemically synthesized for application to an electrode material for electrochemical supercapacitors. The nanosized needle-like MnO2 was obtained by use of a graphene substrate. The prepared composite exhibited an ideal supercapacitive behavior. A capacitance retention of 94% was achieved with a 4 h deposition time (an initial capacitance of 574 mF/cm2 at a scan rate of 20 mV/s) and the retention declined with further deposition time. The results demonstrate enhanced contact between the electrode and electrolyte and improved power density as an electrochemical capacitor.

Economically synthesized NiCo2S4/reduced graphene oxide composite as efficient counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nan, Hui; Han, Jianhua; Luo, Qiang; Yin, Xuewen; Zhou, Yu; Yao, Zhibo; Zhao, Xiaochong; Li, Xin; Lin, Hong

2018-04-01

Exploiting efficient Pt-free counter-electrode materials with low cost and highly catalytic property is a hot topic in the field of Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). Here, NiCo2S4/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was prepared via an economical synthesis route, and the as-prepared composite exhibited comparable electrocatalytic property with the conventional Pt electrode as the counter-electrode. Notably, the introduction of RGO into the NiCo2S4 counter-electrode induces a significantly promoted electrocatalytic rate towards the triiodide reduction than that of pristine NiCo2S4 by increasing surface area in the composite electrode, as revealed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopic measurement and Tafel polarization measurement. The easy synthesis, low cost and excellent electrochemical performance of the NiCo2S4/RGO composites enable themselves to serve as promising counter-electrode candidates for efficient DSCs.

Amperometric L-lysine enzyme electrodes based on carbon nanotube/redox polymer and graphene/carbon nanotube/redox polymer composites.

PubMed

Kaçar, Ceren; Erden, Pınar Esra; Kılıç, Esma

2017-04-01

Highly sensitive L-lysine enzyme electrodes were constructed by using poly(vinylferrocene)-multiwalled carbon nanotubes-gelatine (PVF/MWCNTs-GEL) and poly(vinylferrocene)-multiwalled carbon nanotubes-gelatine-graphene (PVF/MWCNTs-GEL/GR) composites as sensing interfaces and their performances were evaluated. Lysine oxidase (LO) was immobilized onto the composite modified glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) by crosslinking using glutaraldehyde and bovine serum albumin. Effects of pH value, enzyme loading, applied potential, electrode composition, and interfering substances on the amperometric response of the enzyme electrodes were discussed. The analytical characteristics of the enzyme electrodes were also investigated. The linear range, detection limit, and sensitivity of the LO/PVF/MWCNTs-GEL/GCE were 9.9 × 10 -7 -7.0 × 10 -4  M, 1.8 × 10 -7  M (S/N = 3), and 13.51 μA mM -1  cm -2 , respectively. PVF/MWCNTs-GEL/GR-based L-lysine enzyme electrode showed a short response time (<5 s) and a linear detection range from 9.9 × 10 -7 to 7.0 × 10 -4  M with good sensitivity of 17.8 μA mM -1  cm -2 and a low detection limit of 9.2 × 10 -8  M. The PVF/MWCNTs-GEL/GR composite-based L-lysine enzyme electrode exhibited about 1.3-fold higher sensitivity than its MWCNTs-based counterpart and its detection limit was superior to the MWCNTs-based one. In addition, enzyme electrodes were successfully applied to determine L-lysine in pharmaceutical sample and cheese.

Carbon/tin oxide composite electrodes for improved lithium-ion batteries

DOE PAGES

Li, Yunchao; Levine, Alan M.; Zhang, Jinshui; ...

2018-05-17

Tin and tin oxide-based electrodes are promising high-capacity anodes for lithium-ion batteries. However, poor capacity retention is the major issue with these materials due to the large volumetric expansion that occurs when lithium is alloyed with tin during lithiation and delithiation process. Here, a method to prepare a low-cost, scalable carbon and tin(II) oxide composite anode is reported. The composite material was prepared by ball milling of carbon recovered from used tire powders with 25 wt% tin(II) oxide to form lithium-ion battery anode. With the impact of energy from the ball milling, tin oxide powders were uniformly distributed inside themore » pores of waste-tire-derived carbon. During lithiation and delithiation, the carbon matrix can effectively absorb the volume expansion caused by tin, thereby minimizing pulverization and capacity fade of the electrodes. In conclusion, the as-synthesized anode yielded a capacity of 690 mAh g –1 after 300 cycles at a current density of 40 mA g –1 with a stable battery performance.« less

Carbon/tin oxide composite electrodes for improved lithium-ion batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Yunchao; Levine, Alan M.; Zhang, Jinshui

Tin and tin oxide-based electrodes are promising high-capacity anodes for lithium-ion batteries. However, poor capacity retention is the major issue with these materials due to the large volumetric expansion that occurs when lithium is alloyed with tin during lithiation and delithiation process. Here, a method to prepare a low-cost, scalable carbon and tin(II) oxide composite anode is reported. The composite material was prepared by ball milling of carbon recovered from used tire powders with 25 wt% tin(II) oxide to form lithium-ion battery anode. With the impact of energy from the ball milling, tin oxide powders were uniformly distributed inside themore » pores of waste-tire-derived carbon. During lithiation and delithiation, the carbon matrix can effectively absorb the volume expansion caused by tin, thereby minimizing pulverization and capacity fade of the electrodes. In conclusion, the as-synthesized anode yielded a capacity of 690 mAh g –1 after 300 cycles at a current density of 40 mA g –1 with a stable battery performance.« less

Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide/Poly-Glycine composite modified electrode for sensitive determination of l-dopa.

PubMed

Palakollu, Venkata Narayana; Thapliyal, Neeta; Chiwunze, Tirivashe E; Karpoormath, Rajshekhar; Karunanidhi, Sivanandhan; Cherukupalli, Srinivasulu

2017-08-01

A facile preparation strategy based on electrochemical technique for the fabrication of glycine (Poly-Gly) and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) composite modified electrode was developed. The morphology of the developed composite (ERGO/Poly-Gly) was investigated using field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). The composite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was characterized using fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The electrochemical characterization results revealed that ERGO/Poly-Gly modified GCE has excellent electrocatalytic activity. Further, it was employed for sensing of l-dopa in pH5.5. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was used for the quantification of l-dopa as well as for the simultaneous resolution of l-dopa and uric acid (UA). The LOD (S/N=3) was found to be 0.15μM at the proposed composite modified electrode. Determination of l-dopa could also be achieved in the presence of potentially interfering substances. The sensor showed high sensitivity and selectivity with appreciable reliability and precision. The proposed sensor was also successfully applied for real sample analysis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dry Pressed Holey Graphene Composites for Li-air Battery Cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacey, Steven; Lin, Yi; Hu, Liangbing

Graphene is considered an ``omnipotent'' material due to its unique structural characteristics and chemical properties. By heating graphene powder in an open-ended tube furnace, a novel compressible carbon material, holey graphene (hG), can be created with controlled porosity and be further decorated with nanosized catalysts to increase electrocatalytic activity. All hG-based materials were characterized using various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques to obtain morphological, topographical, and chemical information as well as to identify any disordered/crystalline phases. In this work, an additive-free dry press method was employed to press the hG composite materials into high mass loading mixed, sandwich, and double-decker Li-air cathode architectures using a hydraulic press. The sandwich and double-decker (i.e. Big Mac) cathode architectures are the first of its kind and can be discharged for more than 200 hours at a current density of 0.2 mA/cm2. The scalable, binderless, and solventless dry press method and unique Li-air cathode architectures presented here greatly advance electrode fabrication possibilities and could promote future energy storage advancements. Support appreciated from the NASA Internships Fellowships Scholarships (NIFS) Program.

Application of three-dimensional reduced graphene oxide-gold composite modified electrode for direct electrochemistry and electrocatalysis of myoglobin.

PubMed

Shi, Fan; Xi, Jingwen; Hou, Fei; Han, Lin; Li, Guangjiu; Gong, Shixing; Chen, Chanxing; Sun, Wei

2016-01-01

In this paper a three-dimensional (3D) reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and gold (Au) composite was synthesized by electrodeposition and used for the electrode modification with carbon ionic liquid electrode (CILE) as the substrate electrode. Myoglobin (Mb) was further immobilized on the surface of 3D RGO-Au/CILE to obtain an electrochemical sensing platform. Direct electrochemistry of Mb on the modified electrode was investigated with a pair of well-defined redox waves appeared on cyclic voltammogram, indicating the realization of direct electron transfer of Mb with the modified electrode. The results can be ascribed to the presence of highly conductive 3D RGO-Au composite on the electrode surface that accelerate the electron transfer rate between the electroactive center of Mb and the electrode. The Mb modified electrode showed excellent electrocatalytic activity to the reduction of trichloroacetic acid in the concentration range from 0.2 to 36.0 mmol/L with the detection limit of 0.06 mmol/L (3σ). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electrode material comprising graphene-composite materials in a graphite network

DOEpatents

Kung, Harold H.; Lee, Jung K.

2014-07-15

A durable electrode material suitable for use in Li ion batteries is provided. The material is comprised of a continuous network of graphite regions integrated with, and in good electrical contact with a composite comprising graphene sheets and an electrically active material, such as silicon, wherein the electrically active material is dispersed between, and supported by, the graphene sheets.

Electrode material comprising graphene-composite materials in a graphite network

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kung, Harold H.; Lee, Jung K.

A durable electrode material suitable for use in Li ion batteries is provided. The material is comprised of a continuous network of graphite regions integrated with, and in good electrical contact with a composite comprising graphene sheets and an electrically active material, such as silicon, wherein the electrically active material is dispersed between, and supported by, the graphene sheets.

Optimizing Discharge Capacity of Li-O 2 Batteries by Design of Air-Electrode Porous Structure: Multifidelity Modeling and Optimization

DOE PAGES

Pan, Wenxiao; Yang, Xiu; Bao, Jie; ...

2017-01-01

We develop a new mathematical framework to study the optimal design of air electrode microstructures for lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) batteries. It can eectively reduce the number of expensive experiments for testing dierent air-electrodes, thereby minimizing the cost in the design of Li-O2 batteries. The design parameters to characterize an air-electrode microstructure include the porosity, surface-to-volume ratio, and parameters associated with the pore-size distribution. A surrogate model (also known as response surface) for discharge capacity is rst constructed as a function of these design parameters. The surrogate model is accurate and easy to evaluate such that an optimization can be performed basedmore » on it. In particular, a Gaussian process regression method, co-kriging, is employed due to its accuracy and eciency in predicting high-dimensional responses from a combination of multidelity data. Specically, a small amount of data from high-delity simulations are combined with a large number of data obtained from computationally ecient low-delity simulations. The high-delity simulation is based on a multiscale modeling approach that couples the microscale (pore-scale) and macroscale (device-scale) models. Whereas, the low-delity simulation is based on an empirical macroscale model. The constructed response surface provides quantitative understanding and prediction about how air electrode microstructures aect the discharge performance of Li-O2 batteries. The succeeding sensitivity analysis via Sobol indices and optimization via genetic algorithm ultimately oer a reliable guidance on the optimal design of air electrode microstructures. The proposed mathematical framework can be generalized to investigate other new energy storage techniques and materials.« less

Optimizing Discharge Capacity of Li-O 2 Batteries by Design of Air-Electrode Porous Structure: Multifidelity Modeling and Optimization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pan, Wenxiao; Yang, Xiu; Bao, Jie

We develop a new mathematical framework to study the optimal design of air electrode microstructures for lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) batteries. It can eectively reduce the number of expensive experiments for testing dierent air-electrodes, thereby minimizing the cost in the design of Li-O2 batteries. The design parameters to characterize an air-electrode microstructure include the porosity, surface-to-volume ratio, and parameters associated with the pore-size distribution. A surrogate model (also known as response surface) for discharge capacity is rst constructed as a function of these design parameters. The surrogate model is accurate and easy to evaluate such that an optimization can be performed basedmore » on it. In particular, a Gaussian process regression method, co-kriging, is employed due to its accuracy and eciency in predicting high-dimensional responses from a combination of multidelity data. Specically, a small amount of data from high-delity simulations are combined with a large number of data obtained from computationally ecient low-delity simulations. The high-delity simulation is based on a multiscale modeling approach that couples the microscale (pore-scale) and macroscale (device-scale) models. Whereas, the low-delity simulation is based on an empirical macroscale model. The constructed response surface provides quantitative understanding and prediction about how air electrode microstructures aect the discharge performance of Li-O2 batteries. The succeeding sensitivity analysis via Sobol indices and optimization via genetic algorithm ultimately oer a reliable guidance on the optimal design of air electrode microstructures. The proposed mathematical framework can be generalized to investigate other new energy storage techniques and materials.« less

Effect of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) in carbon-based composite electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Chunhong; Wilson, Peter; Lekakou, Constantina

Electrochemical double layer supercapacitor cells were fabricated and tested using composite electrodes of activated carbon with carbon black and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and an organic electrolyte 1 M TEABF 4/PC solution. The effect of PEDOT on the performance of the EDLC cells was explored and the cells were characterised by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge. A generalised equivalent circuit model was developed for which numerical simulations were performed to determine the properties and parameters of its components from the EIS data. It was found that the proposed model fitted successfully the data of all tested cells. PEDOT enhanced the electrode and cell capacitance via its pseudo-capacitance effect up to a maximum value for an optimum PEDOT loading and greatly increased the energy density of the cell while the maximum power density has been still maintained at supercapacitor levels. Furthermore, PEDOT replaced PVDF as a binder and harmful solvent release was reduced during electrode processing. Activated carbon-carbon black composite electrodes with PEDOT as binder were found to have specific capacitance superior to that of activated carbon-carbon black electrodes with PVDF binder.

Compliant Electrode and Composite Material for Piezoelectric Wind and Mechanical Energy Conversions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Bin (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A thin film device for harvesting energy from wind. The thin film device includes one or more layers of a compliant piezoelectric material formed from a composite of a polymer and an inorganic material, such as a ceramic. Electrodes are disposed on a first side and a second side of the piezoelectric material. The electrodes are formed from a compliant material, such as carbon nanotubes or graphene. The thin film device exhibits improved resistance to structural fatigue upon application of large strains and repeated cyclic loadings.

Meso-pores carbon nano-tubes (CNTs) tissues-perfluorocarbons (PFCs) hybrid air-electrodes for Li-O2 battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balaish, Moran; Ein-Eli, Yair

2018-03-01

Adding immiscible perfluorocarbons (PFCs), possessing superior oxygen solubility and diffusivity, to a free-standing (metal-free and binder-free) CNTs air-electrode tissues with a meso-pore structure, fully maximized the advantages of PFCs as oxygenated-species' channels-providers. The discharge behavior of hybrid PFCs-CNT Li-O2 systems demonstrated a drastic increase in cell capacity at high current density (0.2 mA cm-2), where oxygen transport limitations are best illustrated. The results of this research revealed several key factors affecting PFCs-Li-O2 systems. The incorporation of PFCs with higher superoxide solubility and oxygen diffusivity, but more importantly higher PFCs/electrolyte miscibility, in a meso-pore air-electrode enabled better exploitation of PFCs potential. Consequently, the utilization of the air-electrode' surface area was enhanced via the formation of artificial three phase reaction zones with additional oxygen transportation routes, leading to uniform and intimate Li2O2 deposit at areas further away from the oxygen reservoir. Associated mechanisms are discussed along with insights into an improved Li-O2 battery system.

Composite substrate for bipolar electrodes

DOEpatents

Tekkanat, B.; Bolstad, J.J.

1992-12-22

Substrates for electrode systems, particularly those to be used for bipolar electrodes in zinc-bromine batteries, are disclosed. The substrates preferably include carbon-black as a conductive filler in a polymeric matrix, with reinforcing materials such as glass fibers. Warpage of the zinc-bromine electrodes which was experienced in the prior art and which was believed to be caused by physical expansion of the electrodes due to bromine absorption by the carbon-black, is substantially eliminated when new substrate fabrication techniques are employed. In the present invention, substrates are prepared using a lamination process known as glass mat reinforced thermoplastics technology or, in an alternate embodiment, the substrate is made using a slurry process. 4 figs.

Composite substrate for bipolar electrodes

DOEpatents

Tekkanat, Bora; Bolstad, James J.

1992-12-22

Substrates for electrode systems, particularly those to be used for bipolar electrodes in zinc-bromine batteries, are disclosed. The substrates preferably include carbon-black as a conductive filler in a polymeric matrix, with reinforcing materials such as glass fibers. Warpage of the zinc-bromine electrodes which was experienced in the prior art and which was believed to be caused by physical expansion of the electrodes due to bromine absorption by the carbon-black, is substantially eliminated when new substrate fabrication techniques are employed. In the pesent invention, substrates are prepared using a lamination process known as glass mat reinforced thermoplastics technology or, in an alternate embodiment, the substrate is made using a slurry process.

Superior lithium storage performance using sequentially stacked MnO2/reduced graphene oxide composite electrodes.

PubMed

Kim, Sue Jin; Yun, Young Jun; Kim, Ki Woong; Chae, Changju; Jeong, Sunho; Kang, Yongku; Choi, Si-Young; Lee, Sun Sook; Choi, Sungho

2015-04-24

Hybrid nanostructures based on graphene and metal oxides hold great potential for use in high-performance electrode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. Herein, a new strategy to fabricate sequentially stacked α-MnO2 /reduced graphene oxide composites driven by surface-charge-induced mutual electrostatic interactions is proposed. The resultant composite anode exhibits an excellent reversible charge/discharge capacity as high as 1100 mA h g(-1) without any traceable capacity fading, even after 100 cycles, which leads to a high rate capability electrode performance for lithium ion batteries. Thus, the proposed synthetic procedures guarantee a synergistic effect of multidimensional nanoscale media between one (metal oxide nanowire) and two dimensions (graphene sheet) for superior energy-storage electrodes. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Free-standing graphene/vanadium oxide composite as binder-free electrode for asymmetrical supercapacitor.

PubMed

Deng, Lingjuan; Gao, Yihong; Ma, Zhanying; Fan, Guang

2017-11-01

Preparation of free-standing electrode materials with three-dimensional network architecture has emerged as an effective strategy for acquiring advanced portable and wearable power sources. Herein, graphene/vanadium oxide (GR/V 2 O 5 ) free-standing monolith composite has been prepared via a simple hydrothermal process. Flexible GR sheets acted as binder to connect the belt-like V 2 O 5 for assembling three-dimensional network architecture. The obtained GR/V 2 O 5 composite can be reshaped into GR/V 2 O 5 flexible film which exhibits more compact structure by ultrasonication and vacuum filtration. A high specific capacitance of 358Fg -1 for GR/V 2 O 5 monolith compared with that of GR/V 2 O 5 flexible film (272Fg -1 ) has been achieved in 0.5molL -1 K 2 SO 4 solution when used as binder free electrodes in three-electrode system. An asymmetrical supercapacitor has been assembled using GR/V 2 O 5 monolith as positive electrode and GR monolith as negative electrode, and it can be reversibly charged-discharged at a cell voltage of 1.7V in 0.5molL -1 K 2 SO 4 electrolyte. The asymmetrical capacitor can deliver an energy density of 26.22Whkg -1 at a power density of 425Wkg -1 , much higher than that of the symmetrical supercapacitor based on GR/V 2 O 5 monolith electrode. Moreover, the asymmetrical supercapacitor preserves 90% of its initial capacitance over 1000 cycles at a current density of 5Ag -1 . Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pt-Free Counter Electrodes with Carbon Black and 3D Network Epoxy Polymer Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Gyeongho; Choi, Jongmin; Park, Taiho

2016-03-01

Carbon black (CB) and a 3D network epoxy polymer composite, representing dual functions for conductive corrosion protective layer (CCPL) and catalytic layer (CL) by the control of CB weight ratio against polymer is developed. Our strategy provides a proper approach which applies high catalytic ability and chemical stability of CB in corrosive triiodide/iodide (I3-/I-) redox electrolyte system. The CB and a 3D network epoxy polymer composite coated on the stainless steel (SS) electrode to alternate counter electrodes in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A two-step spray pyrolysis process is used to apply a solution containing epoxy monomers and a polyfunctional amine hardener with 6 wt% CB to a SS substrate, which forms a CCPL. Subsequently, an 86 wt% CB is applied to form a CL. The excellent catalytic properties and corrosion protective properties of the CB and 3D network epoxy polymer composites produce efficient counter electrodes that can replace fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) with CCPL/SS and Pt/FTO with CL/CCPL/SS in DSSCs. This approach provides a promising approach to the development of efficient, stable, and cheap solar cells, paving the way for large-scale commercialization.

Direct electrochemistry of hemoglobin on graphene and titanium dioxide nanorods composite modified electrode and its electrocatalysis.

PubMed

Sun, Wei; Guo, Yaqing; Ju, Xiaomei; Zhang, Yuanyuan; Wang, Xiuzhen; Sun, Zhenfan

2013-04-15

A biocompatible sensing platform based on graphene (GR) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanorods for the immobilization of hemoglobin (Hb) was adopted in this paper. The GR-TiO₂-Hb composite-modified carbon ionic liquid electrode was constructed through a simple casting method with Nafion as the film forming material. UV-Vis and FT-IR spectra confirmed that Hb retained its native structure in the composite film. Direct electron transfer of Hb incorporated into the composite was realized with a pair of quasi-reversible redox waves appeared, indicating that the presence of GR-TiO₂ nanocomposite on the electrode surface could facilitate the electron transfer rate between the electroactive center of Hb and the substrate electrode. Hb modified electrode showed excellent electrocatalytic activity to the reduction of trichloroacetic acid in the concentration range from 0.6 to 21.0 mmol L⁻¹. These results indicated that GR-TiO₂ nanocomposite could be a friendly biocompatible interface for immobilizing biomolecules and keeping their native structure. The fabricated biosensor displayed the advantages such as high sensitivity, good reproducibility and long-term stability. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impedance spectroscopic analysis of composite electrode from activated carbon/conductive materials/ruthenium oxide for supercapacitor applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taer, E.; Awitdrus,; Farma, R.

Activated carbon powders (ACP) were produced from the KOH treated pre-carbonized rubber wood sawdust. Different conductive materials (graphite, carbon black and carbon nanotubes (CNTs)) were added with a binder (polivinylidene fluoride (PVDF)) into ACP to improve the supercapacitive performance of the activated carbon (AC) electrodes. Symmetric supercapacitor cells, fabricated using these AC electrodes and 1 molar H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} electrolyte, were analyzed using a standard electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique. The addition of graphite, carbon black and CNTs was found effective in reducing the cell resistance from 165 to 68, 23 and 49 Ohm respectively, and increasing the specific capacitance ofmore » the AC electrodes from 3 to 7, 17, 32 F g{sup −1} respectively. Since the addition of CNTs can produce the highest specific capacitance, CNTs were chosen as a conductive material to produce AC composite electrodes that were added with 2.5 %, 5 % and 10 % (by weight) electro-active material namely ruthenium oxide; PVDF binder and CNTs contents were kept at 5 % by weight in each AC composite produced. The highest specific capacitance of the cells obtained in this study was 86 F g{sup −1}, i.e. for the cell with the resistance of 15 Ohm and composite electrode consists of 5 % ruthenium oxide.« less

Properties of thermal air plasma with admixing of copper and carbon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fesenko, S.; Veklich, A.; Boretskij, V.; Cressault, Y.; Gleizes, A.; Teulet, Ph

2014-11-01

This paper deals with investigations of air plasma with admixing of copper and carbon. Model plasma source unit with real breaking arc was used for the simulation of real discharges, which can be occurred during sliding of Cu-C composite electrodes on copper wire at electromotive vehicles. The complex technique of plasma property studies is developed. From one hand, the radial profiles of temperature and electron density in plasma of electric arc discharge in air between Cu-C composite and copper electrodes in air flow were measured by optical spectroscopy techniques. From another hand, the radial profiles of electric conductivity of plasma mixture were calculated by solution of energy balance equation. It was assumed that the thermal conductivity of air plasma is not depending on copper or carbon vapor admixtures. The electron density is obtained from electric conductivity profiles by calculation in assumption of local thermodynamic equilibrium in plasma. Computed in such way radial profiles of electron density in plasma of electric arc discharge in air between copper electrodes were compared with experimentally measured profiles. It is concluded that developed techniques of plasma diagnostics can be reasonably used in investigations of thermal plasma with copper and carbon vapors.

Self-assembled Ti3C2Tx/SCNT composite electrode with improved electrochemical performance for supercapacitor.

PubMed

Fu, Qishan; Wang, Xinyu; Zhang, Na; Wen, Jing; Li, Lu; Gao, Hong; Zhang, Xitian

2018-02-01

Two-dimensional titanium carbide has gained considerable attention in recent years as an electrode material for supercapacitors due to its high melting point, good electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity and large electrochemically active surfaces. However, the irreversible restacking during synthesis restricts its development and practical applications. Here, Ti 3 C 2 T x /SCNT self-assembled composite electrodes were rationally designed and successfully synthesized by introducing single-walled carbon nanotubes (SCNTs) as interlayer spacers to decrease the restacking of the Ti 3 C 2 T x sheets during the synthesis process. SCNTs can not only increase the specific surface area as well as the interlayer space of the Ti 3 C 2 T x electrode, but also increase the accessible capability of electrolyte ions, and thus it improved the electrochemical performance of the electrode. The as-prepared Ti 3 C 2 T x /SCNT self-assembled composite electrode achieved a high areal capacitance of 220mF/cm 2 (314F/cm 3 ) and a remarkable capacitance retention of 95% after 10,000cycles. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Smooth ZnO:Al-AgNWs Composite Electrode for Flexible Organic Light-Emitting Device.

PubMed

Wang, Hu; Li, Kun; Tao, Ye; Li, Jun; Li, Ye; Gao, Lan-Lan; Jin, Guang-Yong; Duan, Yu

2017-12-01

The high interest in organic light-emitting device (OLED) technology is largely due to their flexibility. Up to now, indium tin oxide (ITO) films have been widely used as transparent conductive electrodes (TCE) in organic opto-electronic devices. However, ITO films, typically deposited on glass are brittle and they make it difficult to produce flexible devices, restricting their use for flexible devices. In this study, we report on a nano-composite TCE, which is made of a silver nanowire (AgNW) network, combined with aluminum-doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al, AZO) by atomic layer deposition. The AgNWs/AZO composite electrode on photopolymer substrate shows a low sheet resistance of only 8.6 Ω/sq and a high optical transmittance of about 83% at 550 nm. These values are even comparable to conventional ITO on glass. In addition, the electrodes also have a very smooth surface (0.31 nm root-mean-square roughness), which is flat enough to contact the OLED stack. Flexible OLED were built with AgNWs/AZO electrodes, which suggests that this approach can replace conventional ITO TCEs in organic electronic devices in the future.

Smooth ZnO:Al-AgNWs Composite Electrode for Flexible Organic Light-Emitting Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Hu; Li, Kun; Tao, Ye; Li, Jun; Li, Ye; Gao, Lan-Lan; Jin, Guang-Yong; Duan, Yu

2017-01-01

The high interest in organic light-emitting device (OLED) technology is largely due to their flexibility. Up to now, indium tin oxide (ITO) films have been widely used as transparent conductive electrodes (TCE) in organic opto-electronic devices. However, ITO films, typically deposited on glass are brittle and they make it difficult to produce flexible devices, restricting their use for flexible devices. In this study, we report on a nano-composite TCE, which is made of a silver nanowire (AgNW) network, combined with aluminum-doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al, AZO) by atomic layer deposition. The AgNWs/AZO composite electrode on photopolymer substrate shows a low sheet resistance of only 8.6 Ω/sq and a high optical transmittance of about 83% at 550 nm. These values are even comparable to conventional ITO on glass. In addition, the electrodes also have a very smooth surface (0.31 nm root-mean-square roughness), which is flat enough to contact the OLED stack. Flexible OLED were built with AgNWs/AZO electrodes, which suggests that this approach can replace conventional ITO TCEs in organic electronic devices in the future.

Porous Ag/P/C Composite Electrodes: A New Approach for Metal Air Batteries

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-29

polished prior to use. Pyrrole was purified prior to use. Tetrabutylammonium hexafluorophosphate was precipitated from tetrabutylammonium bromide and...electrodes (Figure 1). Pyrrole polymerizes oxidatively at +0.6 V. A semi-reversible reduction-oxidation couple appeared with the oxidative peak

Wearable energy-dense and power-dense supercapacitor yarns enabled by scalable graphene–metallic textile composite electrodes

PubMed Central

Liu, Libin; Yu, You; Yan, Casey; Li, Kan; Zheng, Zijian

2015-01-01

One-dimensional flexible supercapacitor yarns are of considerable interest for future wearable electronics. The bottleneck in this field is how to develop devices of high energy and power density, by using economically viable materials and scalable fabrication technologies. Here we report a hierarchical graphene–metallic textile composite electrode concept to address this challenge. The hierarchical composite electrodes consist of low-cost graphene sheets immobilized on the surface of Ni-coated cotton yarns, which are fabricated by highly scalable electroless deposition of Ni and electrochemical deposition of graphene on commercial cotton yarns. Remarkably, the volumetric energy density and power density of the all solid-state supercapacitor yarn made of one pair of these composite electrodes are 6.1 mWh cm−3 and 1,400 mW cm−3, respectively. In addition, this SC yarn is lightweight, highly flexible, strong, durable in life cycle and bending fatigue tests, and integratable into various wearable electronic devices. PMID:26068809

The fabrication of graphene/polydopamine/nickel foam composite material with excellent electrochemical performance as supercapacitor electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Yu; Lu, Shixiang; Xu, Wenguo; He, Ge; Cheng, Yuanyuan; Yu, Tianlong; Zhang, Yan

2018-02-01

A three dimensional composite electrode consisted of reduced graphene oxide (rGO), polydopamine (PDA) and nickel foam (NF) (rGO/PDA/NF) was fabricated by immersing NF into PDA aqueous solution and then graphene oxide (GO) suspension solution respectively, and followed by annealing treatment. During the procedure, GO was coated on NF with assistance of cohesive effect of the PDA middle film, and the reduction of GO and nitrogen doping occurred simultaneously while annealing. Through XRD analyzing, the composites GO/PDA and rGO/PDA treated in experiment are amorphous. The resulted rGO/PDA/NF composite electrode was directly applied as a supercapacitor electrode and showed excellent electrochemical performance, with a high specific capacitance of 566.9 F g-1 at 1 A g-1, the maximum energy density of 172.7 W h kg-1 and a power density of 27.2 kW kg-1 in 1 mol L-1 Na2SO4 electrolyte.

Wearable energy-dense and power-dense supercapacitor yarns enabled by scalable graphene-metallic textile composite electrodes.

PubMed

Liu, Libin; Yu, You; Yan, Casey; Li, Kan; Zheng, Zijian

2015-06-11

One-dimensional flexible supercapacitor yarns are of considerable interest for future wearable electronics. The bottleneck in this field is how to develop devices of high energy and power density, by using economically viable materials and scalable fabrication technologies. Here we report a hierarchical graphene-metallic textile composite electrode concept to address this challenge. The hierarchical composite electrodes consist of low-cost graphene sheets immobilized on the surface of Ni-coated cotton yarns, which are fabricated by highly scalable electroless deposition of Ni and electrochemical deposition of graphene on commercial cotton yarns. Remarkably, the volumetric energy density and power density of the all solid-state supercapacitor yarn made of one pair of these composite electrodes are 6.1 mWh cm(-3) and 1,400 mW cm(-3), respectively. In addition, this SC yarn is lightweight, highly flexible, strong, durable in life cycle and bending fatigue tests, and integratable into various wearable electronic devices.

Oxygen-Vacancy Abundant Ultrafine Co3O4/Graphene Composites for High-Rate Supercapacitor Electrodes.

PubMed

Yang, Shuhua; Liu, Yuanyue; Hao, Yufeng; Yang, Xiaopeng; Goddard, William A; Zhang, Xiao Li; Cao, Bingqiang

2018-04-01

The metal oxides/graphene composites are one of the most promising supercapacitors (SCs) electrode materials. However, rational synthesis of such electrode materials with controllable conductivity and electrochemical activity is the topical challenge for high-performance SCs. Here, the Co 3 O 4 /graphene composite is taken as a typical example and develops a novel/universal one-step laser irradiation method that overcomes all these challenges and obtains the oxygen-vacancy abundant ultrafine Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles/graphene (UCNG) composites with high SCs performance. First-principles calculations show that the surface oxygen vacancies can facilitate the electrochemical charge transfer by creating midgap electronic states. The specific capacitance of the UCNG electrode reaches 978.1 F g -1 (135.8 mA h g -1 ) at the current densities of 1 A g -1 and retains a high capacitance retention of 916.5 F g -1 (127.3 mA h g -1 ) even at current density up to 10 A g -1 , showing remarkable rate capability (more than 93.7% capacitance retention). Additionally, 99.3% of the initial capacitance is maintained after consecutive 20 000 cycles, demonstrating enhanced cycling stability. Moreover, this proposed laser-assisted growth strategy is demonstrated to be universal for other metal oxide/graphene composites with tuned electrical conductivity and electrochemical activity.

Fabrication and electrochemical properties of carbon nanotube/polypyrrole composite film electrodes with controlled pore size

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Ji-Young; Kim, Kwang Heon; Kim, Kwang Bum

Carbon nanotube (CNT)/polypyrrole (PPy) composites with controlled pore size in a three-dimensional entangled structure of a CNT film are prepared as electrode materials for a pseudocapacitor. A CNT film electrode containing nanosize silica between the CNTs is first fabricated using an electrostatic spray deposition of a mixed suspension of CNTs and nanosize silica on to a platinium-coated silicon wafer. Later, nanosize silica is removed leaving a three-dimensional entangled structure of a CNT film. Before removal of the silica from the CNT/silica film electrode, PPy is electrochemically deposited on to the CNTs to anchor them in their entangled structure. Control of the pore size of the final CNT/PPy composite film can be achieved by changing the amount of silica in the mixed suspension of CNTs and nanosize silica. Nanosize silica acts as a sacrificial filler to change the pore size of the entangled CNT film. Scanning electron microscopy of the electrochemically prepared PPy on the CNT film substrate shows that the PPy nucleated heterogeneously and deposited on the surface of the CNTs. The specific capacitance and rate capability of the CNT/PPy composite electrode with a heavy loading of PPy of around 80 wt.% can be improved when it is made to have a three-dimensional network of entangled CNTs with interconnected pores through pore size control.

Superelastic Graphene Aerogel/Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene)/MnO2 Composite as Compression-Tolerant Electrode for Electrochemical Capacitors

PubMed Central

Lv, Peng; Wang, Yaru; Ji, Chenglong; Yuan, Jiajiao

2017-01-01

Ultra-compressible electrodes with high electrochemical performance, reversible compressibility and extreme durability are in high demand in compression-tolerant energy storage devices. Herein, an ultra-compressible ternary composite was synthesized by successively electrodepositing poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and MnO2 into the superelastic graphene aerogel (SEGA). In SEGA/PEDOT/MnO2 ternary composite, SEGA provides the compressible backbone and conductive network; MnO2 is mainly responsible for pseudo reactions; the middle PEDOT not only reduces the interface resistance between MnO2 and graphene, but also further reinforces the strength of graphene cellar walls. The synergistic effect of the three components in the ternary composite electrode leads to high electrochemical performances and good compression-tolerant ability. The gravimetric capacitance of the compressible ternary composite electrodes reaches 343 F g−1 and can retain 97% even at 95% compressive strain. And a volumetric capacitance of 147.4 F cm−3 is achieved, which is much higher than that of other graphene-based compressible electrodes. This value of volumetric capacitance can be preserved by 80% after 3500 charge/discharge cycles under various compression strains, indicating an extreme durability.

Soft actuator based on Kraton with GO/Ag/Pani composite electrodes for robotic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Ajahar; Kant Jain, Ravi; Banerjee, Priyabrata; Inamuddin; Asiri, Abdullah M.

2017-11-01

In this work, electrochemically-driven Kraton/graphene oxide/Ag/polyaniline (Kraton/GO/Ag/Pani) polymer composite based ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) was fabricated as a soft actuator. Silver nanopowder with polyaniline coating used as an electrode material is a novel approach in the fabrication of IPMC, which gives new opportunities for development of the electrode on ionic polymer actuator surfaces directly without electroless plating of Pt or Au metal. The Kraton/GO/Ag/Pani membrane showed much higher water-uptake (WU), ion exchange capacity (IEC), proton conductivity than those of several reported IPMC membranes. The enhanced actuation performance indicates that the Kraton/GO/Ag/Pani is a better alternative to the highly expensive commercialized IPMC actuator.

Metal-air batteries: from oxygen reduction electrochemistry to cathode catalysts.

PubMed

Cheng, Fangyi; Chen, Jun

2012-03-21

Because of the remarkably high theoretical energy output, metal-air batteries represent one class of promising power sources for applications in next-generation electronics, electrified transportation and energy storage of smart grids. The most prominent feature of a metal-air battery is the combination of a metal anode with high energy density and an air electrode with open structure to draw cathode active materials (i.e., oxygen) from air. In this critical review, we present the fundamentals and recent advances related to the fields of metal-air batteries, with a focus on the electrochemistry and materials chemistry of air electrodes. The battery electrochemistry and catalytic mechanism of oxygen reduction reactions are discussed on the basis of aqueous and organic electrolytes. Four groups of extensively studied catalysts for the cathode oxygen reduction/evolution are selectively surveyed from materials chemistry to electrode properties and battery application: Pt and Pt-based alloys (e.g., PtAu nanoparticles), carbonaceous materials (e.g., graphene nanosheets), transition-metal oxides (e.g., Mn-based spinels and perovskites), and inorganic-organic composites (e.g., metal macrocycle derivatives). The design and optimization of air-electrode structure are also outlined. Furthermore, remarks on the challenges and perspectives of research directions are proposed for further development of metal-air batteries (219 references).

Li/Ag 2VO 2PO 4 batteries: the roles of composite electrode constituents on electrochemistry

DOE PAGES

Bock, David C.; Bruck, Andrea M.; Pelliccione, Christopher J.; ...

2016-11-01

In this study, we utilize silver vanadium phosphorous oxide, Ag 2VO 2PO 4, as a model system to systematically study the impact of the constituents of a composite electrode, including polymeric and conductive additives, on electrochemistry. Notably, although highly resistive, this bimetallic cathode can be discharged as a pure electroactive material in the absence of a conductive additive as it generates an in situ conductive matrix via a reduction displacement reaction resulting in the formation of silver metal nanoparticles. Also, three different electrode compositions were investigated: Ag 2VO 2PO 4 only, Ag 2VO 2PO 44 with binder, and Ag 2VOmore » 2PO 4 with binder and carbon. Constant current discharge, pulse testing and impedance spectroscopy measurements were used to characterize the electrochemical properties of the electrodes as a function of depth of discharge. In situ EDXRD was used to spatially resolve the discharge progression within the cathode by following the formation of Ag 0. Ex situ XRD and EXAFS modeling were used to quantify the amount of Ag 0 formed. Results indicate that the metal center reduced (V 5+ or Ag +) was highly dependent on composite composition (presence of PTFE, carbon), depth of discharge (Ag 0 nanoparticle formation), and spatial location within the cathode. The addition of a binder was found to increase cell polarization, and the percolation network provided by the carbon in the presence of PTFE was further increased with reduction and formation of Ag 0. Lastly, this study provides insight into the factors controlling the electrochemistry of resistive active materials in composite electrodes.« less

Li/Ag 2VO 2PO 4 batteries: the roles of composite electrode constituents on electrochemistry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bock, David C.; Bruck, Andrea M.; Pelliccione, Christopher J.

In this study, we utilize silver vanadium phosphorous oxide, Ag 2VO 2PO 4, as a model system to systematically study the impact of the constituents of a composite electrode, including polymeric and conductive additives, on electrochemistry. Notably, although highly resistive, this bimetallic cathode can be discharged as a pure electroactive material in the absence of a conductive additive as it generates an in situ conductive matrix via a reduction displacement reaction resulting in the formation of silver metal nanoparticles. Also, three different electrode compositions were investigated: Ag 2VO 2PO 4 only, Ag 2VO 2PO 44 with binder, and Ag 2VOmore » 2PO 4 with binder and carbon. Constant current discharge, pulse testing and impedance spectroscopy measurements were used to characterize the electrochemical properties of the electrodes as a function of depth of discharge. In situ EDXRD was used to spatially resolve the discharge progression within the cathode by following the formation of Ag 0. Ex situ XRD and EXAFS modeling were used to quantify the amount of Ag 0 formed. Results indicate that the metal center reduced (V 5+ or Ag +) was highly dependent on composite composition (presence of PTFE, carbon), depth of discharge (Ag 0 nanoparticle formation), and spatial location within the cathode. The addition of a binder was found to increase cell polarization, and the percolation network provided by the carbon in the presence of PTFE was further increased with reduction and formation of Ag 0. Lastly, this study provides insight into the factors controlling the electrochemistry of resistive active materials in composite electrodes.« less

Investigation of Lithium-Air Battery Discharge Product Formed on Carbon Nanotube and Nanofiber Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitchell, Robert Revell, III

Carbon nanotubes have been actively investigated for integration in a wide variety of applications since their discovery over 20 years ago. Their myriad desirable material properties including exceptional mechanical strength, high thermal conductivities, large surface-to-volume ratios, and considerable electrical conductivities, which are attributable to a quantum mechanical ability to conduct electrons ballistically, have continued to motivate interest in this material system. While a variety of synthesis techniques exist, carbon nanotubes and nanofibers are most often conveniently synthesized using chemical vapor deposition (CVD), which involves their catalyzed growth from transition metal nanoparticles. Vertically-aligned nanotube and nanofiber carpets produced using CVD have been utilized in a variety of applications including those related to energy storage. Li-air (Li-O2) batteries have received much interest recently because of their very high theoretical energy densities (3200 Wh/kgLi2O2 ). which make them ideal candidates for energy storage devices for future fully-electric vehicles. During operation of a Li-air battery O2 is reduced on the surface a porous air cathode, reacting with Li-ions to form lithium peroxide (Li-O2). Unlike the intercalation reactions of Li-ion batteries, discharge in a Li-air cell is analogous to an electrodeposition process involving the nucleation and growth of the depositing species on a foreign substrate. Carbon nanofiber electrodes were synthesized on porous substrates using a chemical vapor deposition process and then assembled into Li-O2 cells. The large surface to volume ratio and low density of carbon nanofiber electrodes were found to yield a very high gravimetric energy density in Li-O 2 cells, approaching 75% of the theoretical energy density for Li 2O2. Further, the carbon nanofiber electrodes were found to be excellent platforms for conducting ex situ electron microscopy investigations of the deposition Li2O2 phase

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/reduced graphene oxide composites as counter electrodes for high efficiency dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Jinfu; Yuan, Shenghua; Yang, Shaolin; Lu, Hui; Li, Yingtao

2018-05-01

A facile, low cost, easy-controllable method to prepare Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composites by electrochemical deposition onto fluorinated tin oxide (FTO) as counter electrodes (CEs) in high performance dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is reported. The electro-deposition process was accomplished by electro-polymerization of graphene oxide (GO)/PEDOT composites onto FTO substrates followed by electrochemical reduction of the GO component. Electrochemical measurements show that the I-/I3- catalytic activity of the as-prepared PEDOT/rGO CE is improved compared with that of the pure PEDOT and PEDOT/GO electrode. Through the analysis of photoelectric properties, the performance of the electrodes fabricated with different polymerization times are compared, and the optimal preparation condition is determined. The photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of the DSSC assembled with PEDOT/rGO electrode reaches 7.79%, close to 8.33% of the cell with Platinum (Pt) electrode, and increases by 13.2% compared with 6.88% of the device with the PEDOT electrode.

Mesoporous metal oxide microsphere electrode compositions and their methods of making

DOEpatents

Paranthaman, Mariappan Parans; Liu, Hansan; Brown, Gilbert M.; Sun, Xiao-Guang; Bi, Zhonghe

2016-12-06

Compositions and methods of making are provided for mesoporous metal oxide microspheres electrodes. The mesoporous metal oxide microsphere compositions comprise (a) microspheres with an average diameter between 200 nanometers (nm) and 10 micrometers (.mu.m); (b) mesopores on the surface and interior of the microspheres, wherein the mesopores have an average diameter between 1 nm and 50 nm and the microspheres have a surface area between 50 m.sup.2/g and 500 m.sup.2/g. The methods of making comprise forming composite powders. The methods may also comprise refluxing the composite powders in a basic solution to form an etched powder, washing the etched powder with an acid to form a hydrated metal oxide, and heat-treating the hydrated metal oxide to form mesoporous metal oxide microspheres.

Fabrication of silver nanowires and metal oxide composite transparent electrodes and their application in UV light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Xingzhen; Ma, Jiangang; Xu, Haiyang; Wang, Chunliang; Liu, Yichun

2016-08-01

In this paper, we prepared the silver nanowires (AgNWs)/aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) composite transparent conducting electrodes for n-ZnO/p-GaN heterojunction light emitting-diodes (LEDs) by drop casting AgNW networks and subsequent atomic layer deposition (ALD) of AZO at 150 °C. The contact resistances between AgNWs were dramatically reduced by pre-annealing in the vacuum chamber before the ALD of AZO. In this case, AZO works not only as the conformal passivation layer that protects AgNWs from oxidation, but also as the binding material that improves AgNWs adhesion to substrates. Due to the localized surface plasmons (LSPs) of the AgNWs resonant coupling with the ultraviolet (UV) light emission from the LEDs, a higher UV light extracting efficiency is achieved from LEDs with the AgNWs/AZO composite electrodes in comparison with the conventional AZO electrodes. Additionally, the antireflective nature of random AgNW networks in the composite electrodes caused a broad output light angular distribution, which could be of benefit to certain optoelectronic devices like LEDs and solar cells.

High Energy Density Asymmetric Supercapacitor Based on NiOOH/Ni3S2/3D Graphene and Fe3O4/Graphene Composite Electrodes

PubMed Central

Lin, Tsung-Wu; Dai, Chao-Shuan; Hung, Kuan-Chung

2014-01-01

The application of the composite of Ni3S2 nanoparticles and 3D graphene as a novel cathode material for supercapacitors is systematically investigated in this study. It is found that the electrode capacitance increases by up to 111% after the composite electrode is activated by the consecutive cyclic voltammetry scanning in 1 M KOH. Due to the synergistic effect, the capacitance and the diffusion coefficient of electrolyte ions of the activated composite electrode are ca. 3.7 and 6.5 times higher than those of the Ni3S2 electrode, respectively. Furthermore, the activated composite electrode exhibits an ultrahigh specific capacitance of 3296 F/g and great cycling stability at a current density of 16 A/g. To obtain the reasonable matching of cathode/anode electrodes, the composite of Fe3O4 nanoparticles and chemically reduced graphene oxide (Fe3O4/rGO) is synthesized as the anode material. The Fe3O4/rGO electrode exhibits the specific capacitance of 661 F/g at 1 A/g and excellent rate capability. More importantly, an asymmetric supercapacitor fabricated by two different composite electrodes can be operated reversibly between 0 and 1.6 V and obtain a high specific capacitance of 233 F/g at 5 mV/s, which delivers a maximum energy density of 82.5 Wh/kg at a power density of 930 W/kg. PMID:25449978

Graphene/vanadium oxide nanotubes composite as electrode material for electrochemical capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Meimei; Ge, Chongyong; Hou, Zhaohui; Cao, Jianguo; He, Binhong; Zeng, Fanyan; Kuang, Yafei

2013-07-01

Graphene/vanadium oxide nanotubes (VOx-NTs) composite was successfully synthesized through the hydrothermal process in which acetone as solvent and 1-hexadecylamine (HDA) as structure-directing template were used. Morphology, structure and composition of the as-obtained composite were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, nitrogen isothermal adsorption/desorption and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). The composite with the VOx-NTs amount of 69.0 wt% can deliver a specific capacitance of 210 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g in 1 M Na2SO4 aqueous solution, which is nearly twice as that of pristine graphene (128 F/g) or VOx-NTs (127 F/g), and exhibit a good performance rate. Compared with pure VOx-NTs, the cycle stability of the composite was also greatly improved due to the enhanced conductivity of the electrode and the structure buffer role of graphene.

Mesoporous metal oxide microsphere electrode compositions and their methods of making

DOEpatents

Parans Paranthaman, Mariappan; Bi, Zhonghe; Bridges, Craig A; Brown, Gilbert M

2014-12-16

Compositions and methods of making are provided for treated mesoporous metal oxide microspheres electrodes. The compositions comprise (a) microspheres with an average diameter between 200 nanometers (nm) and 10 micrometers (.mu.m); (b) mesopores on the surface and interior of the microspheres, wherein the mesopores have an average diameter between 1 nm and 50 nm and the microspheres have a surface area between 50 m.sup.2/g and 500 m.sup.2/g, and wherein the composition has an electrical conductivity of at least 1.times.10.sup.-7 S/cm at 25.degree. C. and 60 MPa. The methods of making comprise forming a mesoporous metal oxide microsphere composition and treating the mesoporous metal oxide microspheres by at least one method selected from the group consisting of: (i) annealing in a reducing atmosphere, (ii) doping with an aliovalent element, and (iii) coating with a coating composition.

Conductive polymer binder for nano-silicon/graphite composite electrode in lithium-ion batteries towards a practical application

DOE PAGES

Zhao, Hui; Du, Allen; Ling, Min; ...

2016-05-10

The state-of-the-art graphite anode containing a small portion of silicon represents a promising way of applying high-capacity alloy anode in the next generation high energy density lithium-ion batteries. The conductive polymeric binders developed for Si anodes proved to be an effective binder for this graphite/nanoSi composite electrode. Without any acetylene black conductive additives in the electrode, a high areal capacity of above 2.5 mAh/cm 2 is achieved during long-term cycling over 100 cycles. Finally, this conductive polymer-enabled graphite/nanoSi composite electrode exhibits high specific capacity and high 1 st cycle efficiency, which is a significant progress toward commercial application of Simore » anodes.« less

Highly-flexible, ultra-thin, and transparent single-layer graphene/silver composite electrodes for organic light emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Kun; Wang, Hu; Li, Huiying; Li, Ye; Jin, Guangyong; Gao, Lanlan; Marco, Mazzeo; Duan, Yu

2017-08-01

Transparent conductive electrode (TCE) platforms are required in many optoelectronic devices, including organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). To date, indium tin oxide based electrodes are widely used in TCEs but they still have few limitations in term of achieving flexible OLEDs and display techniques. In this paper, highly-flexible and ultra-thin TCEs were fabricated for use in OLEDs by combining single-layer graphene (SLG) with thin silver layers of only several nanometers in thickness. The as-prepared SLG + Ag (8 nm) composite electrodes showed low sheet resistances of 8.5 Ω/□, high stability over 500 bending cycles, and 74% transmittance at 550 nm wavelength. Furthermore, SLG + Ag composite electrodes employed as anodes in OLEDs delivered turn-on voltages of 2.4 V, with luminance exceeding 1300 cd m-2 at only 5 V, and maximum luminance reaching up 40 000 cd m-2 at 9 V. Also, the devices could work normally under less than the 1 cm bending radius.

Rechargeable Lithium-Air Batteries: Development of Ultra High Specific Energy Rechargeable Lithium-Air Batteries Based on Protected Lithium Metal Electrodes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

2010-07-01

BEEST Project: PolyPlus is developing the world’s first commercially available rechargeable lithium-air (Li-Air) battery. Li-Air batteries are better than the Li-Ion batteries used in most EVs today because they breathe in air from the atmosphere for use as an active material in the battery, which greatly decreases its weight. Li-Air batteries also store nearly 700% as much energy as traditional Li-Ion batteries. A lighter battery would improve the range of EVs dramatically. Polyplus is on track to making a critical breakthrough: the first manufacturable protective membrane between its lithium–based negative electrode and the reaction chamber where it reacts with oxygenmore » from the air. This gives the battery the unique ability to recharge by moving lithium in and out of the battery’s reaction chamber for storage until the battery needs to discharge once again. Until now, engineers had been unable to create the complex packaging and air-breathing components required to turn Li-Air batteries into rechargeable systems.« less

Nickel-cadmium batteries: effect of electrode phase composition on acid leaching process.

PubMed

Nogueira, C A; Margarido, F

2012-01-01

At the end of their life, Ni-Cd batteries cause a number of environmental problems because of the heavy metals they contain. Because of this, recycling of Ni-Cd batteries has been carried out by dedicated companies using, normally, pyrometallurgical technologies. As an alternative, hydrometallurgical processes have been developed based on leaching operations using several types of leachants. The effect of factors like temperature, acid concentration, reaction time, stirring speed and grinding of material on the leaching yields of metals contained in anodic and cathodic materials (nickel, cadmium and cobalt) using sulphuric acid, is herein explained based on the structural composition of the electrode materials. The nickel, cobalt and cadmium hydroxide phases, even with a small reaction time (less than 15 minutes) and low temperature (50 degrees C) and acid concentration (1.1 M H2SO4), were efficiently leached. However, leaching of the nickel metallic phase was more difficult, requiring higher values of temperature, acid concentration and reaction time (e.g. 85 degrees C, 1.1 M H2SO4 and 5 h, respectively) in order to obtain a good leaching efficiency for anodic and cathodic materials (70% and 93% respectively). The stirring speed was not significant, whereas the grinding of electrode materials seems to promote the compaction of particles, which appears to be critical in the leaching of Ni degrees. These results allowed the identification and understanding of the relationship between the structural composition of electrode materials and the most important factors that affect the H2SO4 leaching of spent Ni-Cd battery electrodes, in order to obtain better metal-recovery efficiency.

Investigation on the charging process of Li 2O 2-based air electrodes in Li-O 2 batteries with organic carbonate electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Wu; Viswanathan, Vilayanur V.; Wang, Deyu; Towne, Silas A.; Xiao, Jie; Nie, Zimin; Hu, Dehong; Zhang, Ji-Guang

The charging process of Li 2O 2-based air electrodes in Li-O 2 batteries with organic carbonate electrolytes was investigated using in situ gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) to analyze gas evolution. A mixture of Li 2O 2/Fe 3O 4/Super P carbon/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) was used as the starting air electrode material, and 1-M lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) in carbonate-based solvents was used as the electrolyte. We found that Li 2O 2 was actively reactive to 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone and PVDF that were used to prepare the electrode. During the first charging (up to 4.6 V), O 2 was the main component in the gases released. The amount of O 2 measured by GC/MS was consistent with the amount of Li 2O 2 that decomposed during the electrochemical process as measured by the charge capacity, which is indicative of the good chargeability of Li 2O 2. However, after the cell was discharged to 2.0 V in an O 2 atmosphere and then recharged to ∼4.6 V, CO 2 was dominant in the released gases. Further analysis of the discharged air electrodes by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated that lithium-containing carbonate species (lithium alkyl carbonates and/or Li 2CO 3) were the main discharge products. Therefore, compatible electrolytes and electrodes, as well as the electrode-preparation procedures, need to be developed for rechargeable Li-air batteries for long term operation.

Polyaniline nanofiber/large mesoporous carbon composites as electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Huan; Xu, Bin; Jia, Mengqiu; Zhang, Mei; Cao, Bin; Zhao, Xiaonan; Wang, Yu

2015-03-01

A composite of polyaniline nanofiber/large mesoporous carbon (PANI-F/LMC) hybrid was prepared by an in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline monomer with nano-CaCO3 templated LMC as host matrix for supercapacitors. The morphology, composition and electronic structure of the composites (PANI-F/LMC) together with pure PANI nanofibers and the LMC were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), FT-IR, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It is found that the PANI nanofibers were incorporated into the large mesochannels of LMC with interpenetrating framework formed. Such unique structure endows the PANI-F/LMC composite with a high capacitance of 473 F g-1 at a current load of 0.1 A g-1 with good rate performance and cycling stability, suggesting its potential application in the electrode material for supercapacitors.

Manufacturing and actuation characterization of ionic polymer metal composites with silver as electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandita, Surya D.; Lim, Hyoung Tae; Yoo, Youngtai; Park, Hoon Cheol

2006-03-01

Manufacturing and characterization of ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs) with silver as electrodes have been investigated. Tollen's reagent that contains ion Ag(NH 3) II + was used as a raw material for silver deposition on the surfaces of the polymer membrane Nafion"R". Two types of inner solvents, namely common water based electrolyte solution (LiOH 1N) and ionic liquid were used and investigated. Compared to IPMCs with platinum electrodes, silver-plated IPMCs with water electrolyte showed higher conductivity. The actuation response of silver-plated IPMCs with the water based electrolyte was faster than that of platinum IPMCs. However, the silver electrode was too brittle and severely damaged during the solvent exchange process from water to ionic liquid, resulted in high resistance and hence very low actuation behavior.

Application of Desalination with CFRP Composite Electrode to Concrete Deteriorated by Chloride Attack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamaguchi, Keisuke; Ueda, Takao; Nanasawa, Akira

As a new rehabilitation technique for recovery both of loading ability and durability of concrete structures deteriorated by chloride attack, desalination (electrochemical chloride removal technique from concrete) using CFRP composite electrode bonding to concrete has been developed. In this study, basic application was tried using small RC specimens, and also application to the large-scale RC beams deteriorated by the chloride attack through the long-term exposure in the outdoors was investigated. As the result of bending test of treated specimens, the decrease of strengthening effect with the electrochemical treatment was observed in the case of small specimens using low absorption rate resin for bonding, on the other hand, in the case of large-scale RC beam using 20% absorption rate resin for bonding CFRP composite electrode, enough strengthening effect was obtained by the bending failure of RC beam with the fracture of CFRP board.

Graphene and carbon nanotube composite electrodes for supercapacitors with ultra-high energy density.

PubMed

Cheng, Qian; Tang, Jie; Ma, Jun; Zhang, Han; Shinya, Norio; Qin, Lu-Chang

2011-10-21

We describe a graphene and single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) composite film prepared by a blending process for use as electrodes in high energy density supercapacitors. Specific capacitances of 290.6 F g(-1) and 201.0 F g(-1) have been obtained for a single electrode in aqueous and organic electrolytes, respectively, using a more practical two-electrode testing system. In the organic electrolyte the energy density reached 62.8 Wh kg(-1) and the power density reached 58.5 kW kg(-1). The addition of single-walled carbon nanotubes raised the energy density by 23% and power density by 31% more than the graphene electrodes. The graphene/CNT electrodes exhibited an ultra-high energy density of 155.6 Wh kg(-1) in ionic liquid at room temperature. In addition, the specific capacitance increased by 29% after 1000 cycles in ionic liquid, indicating their excellent cyclicity. The SWCNTs acted as a conductive additive, spacer, and binder in the graphene/CNT supercapacitors. This work suggests that our graphene/CNT supercapacitors can be comparable to NiMH batteries in performance and are promising for applications in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles. This journal is © the Owner Societies 2011

Synergistic effect of carbon nanofiber/nanotube composite catalyst on carbon felt electrode for high-performance all-vanadium redox flow battery.

PubMed

Park, Minjoon; Jung, Yang-jae; Kim, Jungyun; Lee, Ho il; Cho, Jeaphil

2013-10-09

Carbon nanofiber/nanotube (CNF/CNT) composite catalysts grown on carbon felt (CF), prepared from a simple way involving the thermal decomposition of acetylene gas over Ni catalysts, are studied as electrode materials in a vanadium redox flow battery. The electrode with the composite catalyst prepared at 700 °C (denoted as CNF/CNT-700) demonstrates the best electrocatalytic properties toward the V(2+)/V(3+) and VO(2+)/VO2(+) redox couples among the samples prepared at 500, 600, 700, and 800 °C. Moreover, this composite electrode in the full cell exhibits substantially improved discharge capacity and energy efficiency by ~64% and by ~25% at 40 mA·cm(-2) and 100 mA·cm(-2), respectively, compared to untreated CF electrode. This outstanding performance is due to the enhanced surface defect sites of exposed edge plane in CNF and a fast electron transfer rate of in-plane side wall of the CNT.

Fabrication methods for low impedance lithium polymer electrodes

DOEpatents

Chern, T.S.; MacFadden, K.O.; Johnson, S.L.

1997-12-16

A process is described for fabricating an electrolyte-electrode composite suitable for high energy alkali metal battery that includes mixing composite electrode materials with excess liquid, such as ethylene carbonate or propylene carbonate, to produce an initial formulation, and forming a shaped electrode therefrom. The excess liquid is then removed from the electrode to compact the electrode composite which can be further compacted by compression. The resulting electrode exhibits at least a 75% lower resistance.

Fabrication methods for low impedance lithium polymer electrodes

DOEpatents

Chern, Terry Song-Hsing; MacFadden, Kenneth Orville; Johnson, Steven Lloyd

1997-01-01

A process for fabricating an electrolyte-electrode composite suitable for high energy alkali metal battery that includes mixing composite electrode materials with excess liquid, such as ethylene carbonate or propylene carbonate, to produce an initial formulation, and forming a shaped electrode therefrom. The excess liquid is then removed from the electrode to compact the electrode composite which can be further compacted by compression. The resulting electrode exhibits at least a 75% lower resistance.

Flexible and conductive waste tire-derived carbon/polymer composite paper as pseudocapacitive electrode

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Naskar, Amit K.; Paranthaman, Mariappan Parans; Boota, Muhammad

A method of making a supercapacitor from waste tires, includes the steps of providing rubber pieces and contacting the rubber pieces with a sulfonation bath to produce sulfonated rubber; pyrolyzing the sulfonated rubber to produce a tire-derived carbon composite comprising carbon black embedded in rubber-derived carbon matrix comprising graphitized interface portions; activating the tire-derived carbon composite by contacting the tire-derived carbon composite with a specific surface area-increasing composition to increase the specific surface area of the carbon composite to provide an activated tire-derived carbon composite; and, mixing the activated tire-derived carbon composite with a monomer and polymerizing the monomer tomore » produce a redox-active polymer coated, activated tire-derived carbon composite. The redox-active polymer coated, activated tire-derived carbon composite can be formed into a film. An electrode and a supercapacitor are also disclosed.« less

Improved electrochemical performance of polyindole/carbon nanotubes composite as electrode material for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Zhi-Jiang; Zhang, Qin; Song, Xian-You

2016-09-01

Polyindole/carbon nanotubes (PIN/CNTs) composite was prepared by an in-situ chemical oxidative polymerization of indole monomer with CNTs using ammonium persulfate as oxidant. The obtained composite material was characterized by SEM, TEM, FT-IR, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, XRD and BET surface areas measurements. It was found that the CNTs were incorporated into the PIN matrix and nanoporous structure was formed. Spectroscopy results showed that interfacial interaction bonds might be formed between the polyindole chains and CNTs during the in-situ polymerization. PIN/CNTs composite was evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and charge/discharge tests to determine electrode performances in relation to supercapacitors properties in both aqueous and non-aqueous system. A maximum specific capacitance and specific volumetric capacitance of 555.6 F/g and 222.2 F/cm3 can be achieved at 0.5 A/g in non-aqueous system. It also displayed good rate performance and cycling stability. The specific capacitance retention is over 60% at 10 A/g and 91.3% after 5000 cycles at 2 A/g, respectively. These characteristics point to its promising applications in the electrode material for supercapacitors.

Characteristics and applications of diffuse discharge of water electrode in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wenzheng, LIU; Tahan, WANG; Xiaozhong, CHEN; Chuanlong, MA

2018-01-01

Plasma water treatment technology, which aims to produce strong oxidizing reactive particles that act on the gas-liquid interface by way of discharging, is used to treat the organic pollutants that do not degrade easily in water. This paper presents a diffuse-discharge plasma water treatment method, which is realized by constructing a conical air gap through an uneven medium layer. The proposed method uses water as one electrode, and a dielectric barrier discharge electrode is constructed by using an uneven dielectric. The electric field distribution in the discharge space will be uneven, wherein the long gap electric field will have a smaller intensity, while the short one will have a larger intensity. A diffuse glow discharge is formed in the cavity. With this type of plasma water treatment equipment, a methyl orange solution with a concentration of 10 mg l-1 was treated, and the removal rate was found to reach 88.96%.

Nanocrystalline LaOx/NiO composite as high performance electrodes for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Du, Guo; Zeng, Zifan; Xiao, Bangqing; Wang, Dengzhi; Yuan, Yuan; Zhu, Xiaohong; Zhu, Jiliang

2017-12-21

Nanocrystalline LaO x /NiO composite electrodes were synthesized via two types of facile cathodic electrodeposition methods onto nickel foam followed by thermal annealing without any binders. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy investigation revealed that LaO x nanocrystalline particles with an average diameter of 50 nm are uniformly distributed in the NiO layer or alternately deposited with the NiO layer onto the substrate. It is speculated that LaO x particles can participate in the faradaic reaction directly and offer more redox sites. Besides this, the unique Ni/La layered structure facilitates the diffusion of ions and retards the electrode polarization, thus leading to a better rate capability and cycling stability of NiO. As a result, the obtained electrodes display very competitive electrochemical performance (a specific capacitance of 1238 F g -1 at a current density of 0.5 A g -1 , excellent rate capability of 86% of the original capacitance at 10 A g -1 and excellent cycling stability of 93% capacitance after 10 000 cycles). In addition, asymmetric coin devices were assembled using LaO x /NiO as the positive electrode and active carbon as the negative electrode. The assembled asymmetric devices demonstrate a high energy density of 13.12 W h kg -1 at a power density of 90.72 W kg -1 .

Preparation of graphene nanosheet/carbon nanotube/polyaniline composite as electrode material for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Jun; Wei, Tong; Fan, Zhuangjun; Qian, Weizhong; Zhang, Milin; Shen, Xiande; Wei, Fei

Graphene nanosheet/carbon nanotube/polyaniline (GNS/CNT/PANI) composite is synthesized via in situ polymerization. GNS/CNT/PANI composite exhibits the specific capacitance of 1035 F g -1 (1 mV s -1) in 6 M of KOH, which is a little lower than GNS/PANI composite (1046 F g -1), but much higher than pure PANI (115 F g -1) and CNT/PANI composite (780 F g -1). Though a small amount of CNTs (1 wt.%) is added into GNS, the cycle stability of GNS/CNT/PANI composite is greatly improved due to the maintenance of highly conductive path as well as mechanical strength of the electrode during doping/dedoping processes. After 1000 cycles, the capacitance decreases only 6% of initial capacitance compared to 52% and 67% for GNS/PANI and CNT/PANI composites.

Electrode and method of interconnection sintering on an electrode of an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Ruka, R.J.; Kuo, L.J.H.

1994-01-11

An electrode structure is made by applying a base layer of doped LaCrO[sub 3] particles on a portion of an electrode and then coating the particles with a top layer composition such as CaO+Al[sub 2]O[sub 3], SrO+Al[sub 2]O[sub 3], or BaO+Al[sub 2]O[sub 3], and then heating the composition for a time effective to melt the composition and allow it to fill any open porosity in the base layer of doped LaCrO[sub 3] to form an interconnection, after which solid oxide electrolyte can be applied to the remaining portion of the electrode and the electrolyte can be covered with a cermet exterior electrode. 2 figures.

Mesoporous Li4Ti5O12 nanoclusters anchored on super-aligned carbon nanotubes as high performance electrodes for lithium ion batteries.

PubMed

Sun, Li; Kong, Weibang; Wu, Hengcai; Wu, Yang; Wang, Datao; Zhao, Fei; Jiang, Kaili; Li, Qunqing; Wang, Jiaping; Fan, Shoushan

2016-01-07

Mesoporous lithium titanate (LTO) nanoclusters are in situ synthesized in a network of super aligned carbon nanotubes (SACNTs) via a solution-based method followed by heat treatment in air. In the LTO-CNT composite, SACNTs not only serve as the skeleton to support a binder-free electrode, but also render the composite with high conductivity, flexibility, and mechanical strength. The homogeneously dispersed LTO nanoclusters among the SACNTs allow each LTO grain to effectively access the electrolyte and the conductive network, benefiting both ion and electron transport. By the incorporation of LTO into the CNT network, mechanical reinforcement is also achieved. When serving as a negative electrode for lithium ion batteries, such a robust composite-network architecture provides the electrodes with effective charge transport and structural integrity, leading to high-performance flexible electrodes with high capacity, high rate capability, and excellent cycling stability.

Synthesis and loading-dependent characteristics of nitrogen-doped graphene foam/carbon nanotube/manganese oxide ternary composite electrodes for high performance supercapacitors.

PubMed

Cheng, Tao; Yu, Baozhi; Cao, Linli; Tan, Huiyun; Li, Xinghua; Zheng, Xinliang; Li, Weilong; Ren, Zhaoyu; Bai, Jinbo

2017-09-01

The ternary composite electrodes, nitrogen-doped graphene foam/carbon nanotube/manganese dioxide (NGF/CNT/MnO 2 ), have been successfully fabricated via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and facile hydrothermal method. The morphologies of the MnO 2 nanoflakes presented the loading-dependent characteristics and the nanoflake thickness could also be tuned by MnO 2 mass loading in the fabrication process. The correlation between their morphology and electrochemical performance was systematically investigated by controlling MnO 2 mass loading in the ternary composite electrodes. The electrochemical properties of the flexible ternary electrode (MnO 2 mass loading of 70%) exhibited a high areal capacitance of 3.03F/cm 2 and a high specific capacitance of 284F/g at the scan rate of 2mV/s. Moreover, it was interesting to find that the capacitance of the NGF/CNT/MnO 2 composite electrodes showed a 51.6% increase after 15,000 cycles. The gradual increase in specific capacitance was due to the formation of defective regions in the MnO 2 nanostructures during the electrochemical cycles of the electrodes, which further resulted in increased porosity, surface area, and consequently increased electrochemical capacity. This work demonstrates a rarely reported conclusion about loading-dependent characteristics for the NGF/CNT/MnO 2 ternary composite electrodes. It will bring new perspectives on designing novel ternary or multi-structure for various energy storage applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In-situ preparation and unique electrochemical behavior of pore-embedding CoO/Co3O4 intermixed composite for Li+ rechargeable battery electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jin Kyu; Ju, Ji Young; Choi, Seul Ki; Unithrattil, Sanjith; Lee, Sun Sook; Kang, Yongku; Kim, Yongseon; Im, Won Bin; Choi, Sungho

2018-02-01

Electrochemically active CoO/Co3O4 co-existing microspheres with morphology-inherited porous particles is successfully synthesized via a simple solvothermal method. The as-prepared intermixed composite undergoes a monoxide CoO-preferred conversion reaction with an extremely enhanced capacity retention, ∼905 mA h g-1 after 250 cycles for discharge state, which is 1.6 times higher than the conventional CoOx-based anodes. Moreover, stable catalytic behavior of the electrocatalysts in Li-air cathodes of the given composites is also demonstrated. We believe that the extraordinarily enhanced electrode performance might be due to the novel pore-tempered microspheres packed with double electrochemically active centers of the CoO/Co3O4 composite effectively confine the detrimental volume exchange during the reversible cyclic reactions as well as the preserved multiple reactive sites for a reversible Li+ ⇄ LiOx reaction, which is advantageous for advanced Li rechargeable battery.

A Nanoporous Carbon/Exfoliated Graphite Composite For Supercapacitor Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosi, Memoria; Ekaputra, Muhamad P.; Iskandar, Ferry; Abdullah, Mikrajuddin; Khairurrijal

2010-12-01

Nanoporous carbon was prepared from coconut shells using a simple heating method. The nanoporous carbon is subjected to different treatments: without activation, activation with polyethylene glycol (PEG), and activation with sodium hydroxide (NaOH)-PEG. The exfoliated graphite was synthesized from graphite powder oxidized with zinc acetate (ZnAc) and intercalated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and NaOH. A composite was made by mixing the nanoporous carbon with NaOH-PEG activation, the exfoliated graphite and a binder of PVA solution, grinding the mixture, and annealing it using ultrasonic bath for 1 hour. All of as-synthesized materials were characterized by employing a scanning electron microscope (SEM), a MATLAB's image processing toolbox, and an x-ray diffractometer (XRD). It was confirmed that the composite is crystalline with (002) and (004) orientations. In addition, it was also found that the composite has a high surface area, a high distribution of pore sizes less than 40 nm, and a high porosity (67%). Noting that the pore sizes less than 20 nm are significant for ionic species storage and those in the range of 20 to 40 nm are very accessible for ionic clusters mobility across the pores, the composite is a promising material for the application as supercapacitor electrodes.

Advanced membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells

DOEpatents

Kim, Yu Seung; Pivovar, Bryan S.

2012-07-24

A method of preparing advanced membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for use in fuel cells. A base polymer is selected for a base membrane. An electrode composition is selected to optimize properties exhibited by the membrane electrode assembly based on the selection of the base polymer. A property-tuning coating layer composition is selected based on compatibility with the base polymer and the electrode composition. A solvent is selected based on the interaction of the solvent with the base polymer and the property-tuning coating layer composition. The MEA is assembled by preparing the base membrane and then applying the property-tuning coating layer to form a composite membrane. Finally, a catalyst is applied to the composite membrane.

Advanced membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells

DOEpatents

Kim, Yu Seung; Pivovar, Bryan S

2014-02-25

A method of preparing advanced membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for use in fuel cells. A base polymer is selected for a base membrane. An electrode composition is selected to optimize properties exhibited by the membrane electrode assembly based on the selection of the base polymer. A property-tuning coating layer composition is selected based on compatibility with the base polymer and the electrode composition. A solvent is selected based on the interaction of the solvent with the base polymer and the property-tuning coating layer composition. The MEA is assembled by preparing the base membrane and then applying the property-tuning coating layer to form a composite membrane. Finally, a catalyst is applied to the composite membrane.

An Asymmetric Supercapacitor with Mesoporous NiCo2O4 Nanorod/Graphene Composite and N-Doped Graphene Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, J. W.; He, C. H.; Qi, J. Q.; Zhang, A. B.; Sui, Y. W.; He, Y. Z.; Meng, Q. K.; Wei, F. X.

2018-01-01

In the present work, mesoporous NiCo2O4 nanorod/graphene oxide (NiCo2O4/GO) composite was prepared by a facile and cost-effective hydrothermal method and meanwhile, N-doped graphene (N-G) was fabricated also by a hydrothermal synthesis process. NiCo2O4/GO composite and N-G were used as positive and negative electrodes for the supercapacitor, respectively, which all displayed excellent electrochemical performances. The NiCo2O4/GO composite electrode exhibited a high specific capacitance of 709.7 F g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1 and excellent rate capability as well as good cycling performance with 84.7% capacitance retention at 6 A g-1 after 3000 cycles. A high-voltage asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was successfully fabricated using NiCo2O4/GO composite and N-G as the positive and negative electrodes, respectively, in 1 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. The ASC delivered a high energy density of 34.4 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 800 W kg-1 and still maintained 28 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 8000 W kg-1. Furthermore, this ASC showed excellent cycling stability with 94.3% specific capacitance retained at 5 A g-1 after 5000 cycles. The impressive results can be ascribed to the positive synergistic effects of the two electrodes. Evidently, our work provides useful information for assembling high-performance supercapacitor devices.

Electrode and method of interconnection sintering on an electrode of an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Ruka, Roswell J.; Kuo, Lewis J. H.

1994-01-01

An electrode structure (10) is made by applying a base layer of doped LaCrO.sub.3 particles on a portion of an electrode (16) and then coating the particles with a top layer composition such as CaO+Al.sub.2 O.sub.3, SrO+Al.sub.2 O.sub.3, or BaO+Al.sub.2 O.sub.3, and then heating the composition for a time effective to melt the composition and allow it to fill any open porosity in the base layer of doped LaCrO.sub.3 to form an interconnection (26), after which solid oxide electrolyte (18) can be applied to the remaining portion of the electrode (16) and the electrolyte (18) can be covered with a cermet exterior electrode (20).

Low resistance fuel electrodes

DOEpatents

Maskalick, Nichols J.; Folser, George R.

1989-01-01

An electrode 6 bonded to a solid, ion conducting electrolyte 5 is made, where the electrode 6 comprises a ceramic metal oxide 18, metal particles 17, and heat stable metal fibers 19, where the metal fibers provide a matrix structure for the electrode. The electrolyte 5 can be bonded to an air electrode cathode 4, to provide an electrochemical cell 2, preferably of tubular design.

Electrode electrolyte interlayers containing cerium oxide for electrochemical fuel cells

DOEpatents

Borglum, Brian P.; Bessette, Norman F.

2000-01-01

An electrochemical cell is made having a porous fuel electrode (16) and a porous air electrode (13), with solid oxide electrolyte (15) therebetween, where the air electrode surface opposing the electrolyte has a separate, attached, dense, continuous layer (14) of a material containing cerium oxide, and where electrolyte (16) contacts the continuous oxide layer (14), without contacting the air electrode (13).

MWCNT-ruthenium oxide composite paste electrode as non-enzymatic glucose sensor.

PubMed

Tehrani, Ramin M A; Ab Ghani, Sulaiman

2012-01-01

A non-enzymatic glucose sensor of multi-walled carbon nanotube-ruthenium oxide/composite paste electrode (MWCNT-RuO(2)/CPE) was developed. The electrode was characterized by using XRD, SEM, TEM and EIS. Meanwhile, cyclic voltammetry and amperometry were used to check on the performances of the MWCNT-RuO(2)/CPE towards glucose. The proposed electrode has displayed a synergistic effect of RuO(2) and MWCNT on the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose in 3M NaOH. This was possible via the formation of transitions of two redox pairs, viz. Ru(VI)/Ru(IV) and Ru(VII)/Ru(VI). A linear range of 0.5-50mM glucose and a limit of detection of 33 μM glucose (S/N=3) were observed. There was no significant interference observable from the traditional interferences, viz. ascorbic acid and uric acid. Indeed, results so obtained have indicated that the developed MWCNT-RuO(2)/CPE would pave the way for a better future to glucose sensor development as its fabrication was without the use of any enzyme. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Manganese oxides-based composite electrodes for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Dongyun; Ma, Jun; Huang, Mingyu; Liu, Feng; Chen, Taizhou; Liu, Chao; Ni, Hongjun

2017-06-01

In recent, nanostructured transition metal oxides as a new class of energy storage materials have widely attracted attention due to its excellent electrochemical performance for supercapacitors. The MnO2 based transition metal oxides and their composite electrode materials were focused in the review for supercapacitor applications. The researches on different nanostructures of manganese oxides such as Nano rods, Nano sheets, nanowires, nanotubes and so on have been discovered in recent years, together with brief explanations of their properties. Research on enhancing materials’ properties by designing combination of different materials on the micron or Nano scale is too limited, and therefore we discuss the effects of different components’ sizes and their synergy on the performance. Moreover, the low-cost and large-scale fabrication of flexible supercapacitors with high performance (high energy density and cycle stability) have been pointed out and studied.

Low energy milling method, low crystallinity alloy, and negative electrode composition

DOEpatents

Le, Dihn B; Obrovac, Mark N; Kube, Robert Y; Landucci, James R

2012-10-16

A method of making nanostructured alloy particles includes milling a millbase in a pebble mill containing milling media. The millbase comprises: (i) silicon, and (ii) at least one of carbon or a transition metal, and wherein the nanostructured alloy particles are substantially free of crystalline domains greater than 50 nanometers in size. A method of making a negative electrode composition for a lithium ion battery including the nanostructured alloy particles is also disclosed.

Electrochemical properties of graphene nanosheets/polyaniline nanofibers composites as electrode for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jing; Xie, Huaqing; Li, Yang; Liu, Jie; Li, Zhuxin

Graphene nanosheets/polyaniline nanofibers (GNS/PANI) composites are synthesized via in situ polymerization of aniline monomer in HClO 4 solution. The PANI nanofibers homogeneously coating on the surface of GNS greatly improve the charge transfer reaction. The GNS/PANI composites exhibit better electrochemical performances than the pure individual components. A remarkable specific capacitance of 1130 F g -1 (based on GNS/PANI composites) is obtained at a scan rate of 5 mV s -1 in 1 M H 2SO 4 solution compared to 402 F g -1 for pure PANI and 270 F g -1 for GNS. The excellent performance is not only due to the GNS which can provide good electrical conductivity and high specific surface area, but also associate with a good redox activity of ordered PANI nanofibers. Moreover, the GNS/PANI composites present excellent long cycle life with 87% specific capacitance retained after 1000 charge/discharge processes. The resulting composites are promising electrode materials for high-performance electrical energy storage devices.

Integration of a Graphite/PMMA CompositeElectrode into a Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) Substrate for Electrochemical Detection in Microchips

PubMed Central

Regel, Anne; Lunte, Susan

2013-01-01

Traditional fabrication methods for polymer microchips, the bonding of two substrates together to form the microchip, can make the integration of carbon electrodes difficult. We have developed a simple and inexpensive method to integrate graphite/PMMA composite electrodes (GPCEs) into a PMMA substrate. These substrates can be bonded to other PMMA layers using a solvent-assisted thermal bonding method. The optimal composition of the GPCEs for electrochemical detection was determined using cyclic voltammetry with dopamine as a test analyte. Using the optimized GPCEs in an all-PMMA flow cell with flow injection analysis, it was possible to detect 50 nM dopamine under the best conditions. These electrodes were also evaluated for the detection of dopamine and catechol following separation by microchip electrophoresis (ME). PMID:23670816

Asleep Deep Brain Stimulation Reduces Incidence of Intracranial Air during Electrode Implantation.

PubMed

Ko, Andrew L; Magown, Philippe; Ozpinar, Alp; Hamzaoglu, Vural; Burchiel, Kim J

2018-05-30

Asleep deep brain stimulation (aDBS) implantation replaces microelectrode recording for image-guided implantation, shortening the operative time and reducing cerebrospinal fluid egress. This may decrease pneumocephalus, thus decreasing brain shift during implantation. To compare the incidence and volume of pneumocephalus during awake (wkDBS) and aDBS procedures. A retrospective review of bilateral DBS cases performed at Oregon Health & Science University from 2009 to 2017 was undertaken. Postimplantation imaging was reviewed to determine the presence and volume of intracranial air and measure cortical brain shift. Among 371 patients, pneumocephalus was noted in 66% of wkDBS and 15.6% of aDBS. The average volume of air was significantly higher in wkDBS than aDBS (8.0 vs. 1.8 mL). Volumes of air greater than 7 mL, which have previously been linked to brain shift, occurred significantly more frequently in wkDBS than aDBS (34 vs 5.6%). wkDBS resulted in significantly larger cortical brain shifts (5.8 vs. 1.2 mm). We show that aDBS reduces the incidence of intracranial air, larger air volumes, and cortical brain shift. Large volumes of intracranial air have been correlated to shifting of brain structures during DBS procedures, a variable that could impact accuracy of electrode placement. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Graphene-based battery electrodes having continuous flow paths

DOEpatents

Zhang, Jiguang; Xiao, Jie; Liu, Jun; Xu, Wu; Li, Xiaolin; Wang, Deyu

2014-05-24

Some batteries can exhibit greatly improved performance by utilizing electrodes having randomly arranged graphene nanosheets forming a network of channels defining continuous flow paths through the electrode. The network of channels can provide a diffusion pathway for the liquid electrolyte and/or for reactant gases. Metal-air batteries can benefit from such electrodes. In particular Li-air batteries show extremely high capacities, wherein the network of channels allow oxygen to diffuse through the electrode and mesopores in the electrode can store discharge products.

Evaluation of indoor air composition time variation in air-tight occupied spaces during night periods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Markov, Detelin

2012-11-01

This paper presents an easy-to-understand procedure for prediction of indoor air composition time variation in air-tight occupied spaces during the night periods. The mathematical model is based on the assumptions for homogeneity and perfect mixing of the indoor air, the ideal gas model for non-reacting gas mixtures, mass conservation equations for the entire system and for each species, a model for prediction of basal metabolic rate of humans as well as a model for prediction of O2 consumption rate and both CO2 and H2O generation rates by breathing. Time variation of indoor air composition is predicted at constant indoor air temperature for three scenarios based on the analytical solution of the mathematical model. The results achieved reveal both the most probable scenario for indoor air time variation in air-tight occupied spaces as well as the cause for morning tiredness after having a sleep in a modern energy efficient space.

High performance binder-free SiO x/C composite LIB electrode made of SiO x and lignin

DOE PAGES

Chen, Tao; Hu, Jiazhi; Zhang, Long; ...

2017-07-19

A high performance binder-free SiO x/C composite electrode was synthesized by mixing SiO x particles and Kraft lignin in a cryo-mill followed by heat treatment at 600 °C. After the heat treatment, lignin formed a conductive matrix hosting SiO x particles, ensuring electronic conductivity, connectivity, and accommodation of volume changes during lithiation/delithiation. As the result, no conventional binder or conductive agent was necessary. When electrochemically cycled, the composite electrode delivered excellent performance, maintaining ~900 mAh g -1 after 250 cycles at a rate of 200 mA g -1, and good rate capability. The robustness of the electrode was also examinedmore » by post-cycling SEM images, where few cracks were observed. The excellent electrochemical performance can be attributed to the comparatively small volume change of SiO x-based electrodes (160%) and the flexibility of the lignin derived carbon matrix to accommodate the volume change. In conclusion, this work should stimulate further interests in using bio-renewable resources in making advanced electrochemical energy storage systems.« less

High performance binder-free SiO x/C composite LIB electrode made of SiO x and lignin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Tao; Hu, Jiazhi; Zhang, Long

A high performance binder-free SiO x/C composite electrode was synthesized by mixing SiO x particles and Kraft lignin in a cryo-mill followed by heat treatment at 600 °C. After the heat treatment, lignin formed a conductive matrix hosting SiO x particles, ensuring electronic conductivity, connectivity, and accommodation of volume changes during lithiation/delithiation. As the result, no conventional binder or conductive agent was necessary. When electrochemically cycled, the composite electrode delivered excellent performance, maintaining ~900 mAh g -1 after 250 cycles at a rate of 200 mA g -1, and good rate capability. The robustness of the electrode was also examinedmore » by post-cycling SEM images, where few cracks were observed. The excellent electrochemical performance can be attributed to the comparatively small volume change of SiO x-based electrodes (160%) and the flexibility of the lignin derived carbon matrix to accommodate the volume change. In conclusion, this work should stimulate further interests in using bio-renewable resources in making advanced electrochemical energy storage systems.« less

Optimum electrode configuration selection for electrical resistance change based damage detection in composites using an effective independence measure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Escalona, Luis; Díaz-Montiel, Paulina; Venkataraman, Satchi

2016-04-01

Laminated carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite materials are increasingly used in aerospace structures due to their superior mechanical properties and reduced weight. Assessing the health and integrity of these structures requires non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques to detect and measure interlaminar delamination and intralaminar matrix cracking damage. The electrical resistance change (ERC) based NDE technique uses the inherent changes in conductive properties of the composite to characterize internal damage. Several works that have explored the ERC technique have been limited to thin cross-ply laminates with simple linear or circular electrode arrangements. This paper investigates a method of optimum selection of electrode configurations for delamination detection in thick cross-ply laminates using ERC. Inverse identification of damage requires numerical optimization of the measured response with a model predicted response. Here, the electrical voltage field in the CFRP composite laminate is calculated using finite element analysis (FEA) models for different specified delamination size and locations, and location of ground and current electrodes. Reducing the number of sensor locations and measurements is needed to reduce hardware requirements, and computational effort needed for inverse identification. This paper explores the use of effective independence (EI) measure originally proposed for sensor location optimization in experimental vibration modal analysis. The EI measure is used for selecting the minimum set of resistance measurements among all possible combinations of selecting a pair of electrodes among the n electrodes. To enable use of EI to ERC required, it is proposed in this research a singular value decomposition SVD to obtain a spectral representation of the resistance measurements in the laminate. The effectiveness of EI measure in eliminating redundant electrode pairs is demonstrated by performing inverse identification of

Electrode Modification and Optimization in Air-Cathode Single-Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells.

PubMed

Wang, Yanhua; Wu, Jiayan; Yang, Shengke; Li, Huihui; Li, Xiaoping

2018-06-27

Due to the known problems of microbial fuel cells (MFCs), such as low electricity generation performance and high cost of operation, we modified the electrode with graphene and polyaniline (PANI) is a single-chamber air-cathode MFC and then evaluated the effects of electrode modification on MFC electricity generation performance. Carbon cloth electrodes (unmodified, CC; graphene-modified, G/CC; and polyaniline-graphene-modified, PANI-G/CC) were prepared using the impregnation method. Sulfonated cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPcS) was then introduced as a cathode catalyst. The Co-PANI-G/CC cathode showed higher catalytic activity toward oxygen reduction compared with other electrodes. The maximum power density of the MFC with Co-PANI-G/CC cathode was 32.2 mW/m², which was 1.8 and 6.1 times higher than the value obtained with Co-G/CC and Co/CC cathodes, respectively. This indicates a significant improvement in the electricity generation of single-chamber MFCs and provides a simple, effective cathode modification method. Furthermore, we constructed single-chamber MFCs using the modified anode and cathode and analyzed electricity generation and oxytetracycline (OTC) degradation with different concentrations of OTC as the fuel. With increasing added OTC concentration, the MFC performance in both electricity generation and OTC degradation gradually decreased. However, when less than 50 mg/L OTC was added, the 5-day degradation rate of OTC reached more than 90%. It is thus feasible to process OTC-containing wastewater and produce electricity using single-chamber MFCs, which provides a new concept for wastewater treatment.

Transparent and flexible electrodes and supercapacitors using polyaniline/single-walled carbon nanotube composite thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ge, Jun; Cheng, Guanghui; Chen, Liwei

2011-08-01

Large-scale transparent and flexible electronic devices have been pursued for potential applications such as those in touch sensors and display technologies. These applications require that the power source of these devices must also comply with transparent and flexible features. Here we present transparent and flexible supercapacitors assembled from polyaniline (PANI)/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) composite thin film electrodes. The ultrathin, optically homogeneous and transparent, electrically conducting films of the PANI/SWNT composite show a large specific capacitance due to combined double-layer capacitance and pseudo-capacitance mechanisms. A supercapacitor assembled using electrodes with a SWNT density of 10.0 µg cm-2 and 59 wt% PANI gives a specific capacitance of 55.0 F g-1 at a current density of 2.6 A g-1, showing its possibility for transparent and flexible energy storage.

A Reusable Impedimetric Aptasensor for Detection of Thrombin Employing a Graphite-Epoxy Composite Electrode

PubMed Central

Ocaña, Cristina; Pacios, Mercè; del Valle, Manel

2012-01-01

Here, we report the application of a label-free electrochemical aptasensor based on a graphite-epoxy composite electrode for the detection of thrombin; in this work, aptamers were immobilized onto the electrodes surface using wet physical adsorption. The detection principle is based on the changes of the interfacial properties of the electrode; these were probed in the presence of the reversible redox couple [Fe(CN)6]3−/[Fe(CN)6]4− using impedance measurements. The electrode surface was partially blocked due to formation of aptamer-thrombin complex, resulting in an increase of the interfacial electron-transfer resistance detected by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The aptasensor showed a linear response for thrombin in the range of 7.5 pM to 75 pM and a detection limit of 4.5 pM. The aptasensor was regenerated by breaking the complex formed between the aptamer and thrombin using 2.0 M NaCl solution at 42 °C, showing its operation for different cycles. The interference response caused by main proteins in serum has been characterized. PMID:22736991

Harvesting polysulfides by sealing the sulfur electrode in a composite ion-selective net

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yazhou; Li, Zhong; Li, Xuekui; Zeng, Danli; Xu, Guodong; Zhang, Yunfeng; Sun, Yubao; Ke, Hanzhong; Cheng, Hansong

2017-11-01

A cathode was prepared by sealing a carbon supported sulfur electrode inside a composite ion-selective net made of carbon, binder and lithiated ionomer to restrict shuttling of polysulfide anionic species. As a result, the soluble polysulfide anions become unable to escape from the composite ion-selective films due to the electrostatic repulsion between the immobilized single ion conducting ionomers and the polysulfides with no dead angles. Experimentally, lithiated 4,4‧-difluoro bis(benzene sulfonyl)imide and PEG200 were copolymerized to form a polyether based single ion conducting polymer. The ionic conductivity of the blend film made of ionomer and poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) at a mass ratio of 1:1 is 0.57 mS cm-1 at room temperature. The battery capacity with the sealed sulfur electrode is 1412 mAh g-1 at 0.5 C, 1041 mAh g-1 at 1.0 C, 873 mAh g-1 at 2.0 C and 614 mAh g-1 at 5.0 C, significantly better than the results with lithiated Nafion especially at high C rates. In addition, a long cycling test at 2 C for 500 cycles gives rise to a stable capacity of 800 mAh g-1. The intrinsic electrostatic repulsion between polysulfide anions and the negatively charged electrolyte film, together with the overall sealed electrode configuration, is responsible for blocking the shuttling of polysulfides effectively.

Spark Gap Electrode Erosion

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-12-01

N~JFOSR-TR- 85-0282 o ~FINAL REPORT S SPARK GAP ELECTRODE EROSION 00i Air Force Office of Scientific Research Grant No. 84-0015- Approve", t’r p...OF MONITORING ORGANIZATION Texas Tech University IDibj Air Office of Scientific Research it- ADORESS rCat.. State and ZIP CG*, 7b. ADONESS ’CitY...spark gap was measured for various electrode, gas, and pressure combinations. A previously developed model of self breakdown voltage distribution was

B4C as a stable non-carbon-based oxygen electrode material for lithium-oxygen batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Song, Shidong; Xu, Wu; Cao, Ruiguo

Lithium-oxygen (Li-O 2) batteries have extremely high theoretical specific capacities and energy densities when compared with Li-ion batteries. However, the instability of both electrolyte and carbon-based oxygen electrode related to the nucleophilic attack of reduced oxygen species during oxygen reduction reaction and the electrochemical oxidation during oxygen evolution reaction are recognized as the major challenges in this field. Here we report the application of boron carbide (B 4C) as the non-carbon based oxygen electrode material for aprotic Li-O 2 batteries. B 4C has high resistance to chemical attack, good conductivity, excellent catalytic activity and low density that are suitable formore » battery applications. The electrochemical activity and chemical stability of B4C are systematically investigated in aprotic electrolyte. Li-O 2 cells using B4C based air electrodes exhibit better cycling stability than those used TiC based air electrode in 1 M LiTf-Tetraglyme electrolyte. The degradation of B 4C based electrode is mainly due to be the loss of active sites on B 4C electrode during cycles as identified by the structure and composition characterizations. These results clearly demonstrate that B 4C is a very promising alternative oxygen electrode material for aprotic Li-O 2 batteries. It can also be used as a standard electrode to investigate the stability of electrolytes.« less

All-solid-state flexible microsupercapacitors based on reduced graphene oxide/multi-walled carbon nanotube composite electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Xiling; Xu, Jianhua; He, Xin; Yang, Wenyao; Yang, Yajie; Xu, Lu; Zhao, Yuetao; Zhou, Yujiu

2018-03-01

All-solid-state flexible microsupercapacitors have been intensely investigated in order to meet the rapidly growing demands for portable microelectronic devices. Herein, we demonstrate a facile, readily scalable and cost-effective laser induction process for preparing reduced graphene oxide/multi-walled carbon nanotube composite, which can be used as the interdigital electrodes in microsupercapacitors. The obtained composite exhibits high volumetric capacitance about 49.35 F cm-3, which is nearly 5 times higher than that of the pristine reduced graphene oxide film in aqueous 1.0 M H2SO4 solution (measured at a current density of 5 A cm-3 in a three-electrode testing). Additionally, an all-solid-state flexible microsupercapacitor employing these composite electrodes with PVA/H3PO4 gel electrolyte delivers high volumetric energy density of 6.47 mWh cm-3 at 10 mW cm-3 under the current density of 20 mA cm-3 as well as achieve excellent cycling stability retaining 88.6% of its initial value and outstanding coulombic efficiency after 10,000 cycles. Furthermore, the microsupercapacitors array connected in series/parallel can be easily adjusted to achieve the demands in practical applications. Therefore, this work brings a promising new candidate of prepare technologies for all-solid-state flexible microsupercapacitors as miniaturized power sources used in the portable and wearable electronics.

Method of making a layered composite electrode/electrolyte

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2005-01-25

An electrode/electrolyte structure is prepared by a plurality of methods. An unsintered (possibly bisque fired) moderately catalytic electronically-conductive or homogeneous mixed ionic electronic conductive electrode material is deposited on a layer composed of a sintered or unsintered ionically-conductive electrolyte material prior to being sintered. A layer of particulate electrode material is deposited on an unsintered ("green") layer of electrolyte material and the electrode and electrolyte layers are sintered simultaneously, sometimes referred to as "co-firing," under conditions suitable to fully densify the electrolyte while the electrode retains porosity. Or, the layer of particulate electrode material is deposited on a previously sintered layer of electrolyte, and then sintered. Subsequently, a catalytic material is added to the electrode structure by infiltration of an electrolcatalyst precursor (e.g., a metal salt such as a transition metal nitrate). This may be followed by low temperature firing to convert the precursor to catalyst. The invention allows for an electrode with high electronic conductivity and sufficient catalytic activity to achieve high power density in an ionic (electrochemical) device such as fuel cells and electrolytic gas separation systems.

Cerium-modified doped strontium titanate compositions for solid oxide fuel cell anodes and electrodes for other electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Marina, Olga A [Richland, WA; Stevenson, Jeffry W [Richland, WA

2010-03-02

The present invention provides novel compositions that find advantageous use in making electrodes for electrochemical cells and electrochemical devices such as solid oxide fuel cells, electrolyzers, sensors, pumps and the like, the compositions comprising cerium-modified doped strontium titanate. The invention also provides novel methods for making and using anode material compositions and solid oxide fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cell assemblies having anodes comprising the compositions.

Cerium-modified doped strontium titanate compositions for solid oxide fuel cell anodes and electrodes for other electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Marina, Olga A [Richland, WA; Stevenson, Jeffry W [Richland, WA

2010-11-23

The present invention provides novel compositions that find advantageous use in making electrodes for electrochemical cells and electrochemical devices such as solid oxide fuel cells, electrolyzers, sensors, pumps and the like, the compositions comprising cerium-modified doped strontium titanate. The invention also provides novel methods for making and using anode material compositions and solid oxide fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cell assemblies having anodes comprising the compositions.

Effects of air-polishing powders on color stability of composite resins.

PubMed

Güler, Ahmet Umut; Duran, Ibrahim; Yücel, Ali Çağin; Ozkan, Pelin

2011-10-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different air-polishing powders on the color stability of different types of composite resin restorative materials. Thirty cylindrical specimens (15×2 mm) were prepared for each of 7 composite resin restorative materials. All specimens were polished with a series of aluminum oxide polishing discs (Sof-Lex). The prepared specimens of each composite resin were randomly divided into 3 groups of 10 specimens each, for control (Group-C) and two air-powder applications (Group-CP: Cavitron Prophy-Jet; Group-PS: Sirona ProSmile prophylaxis powder). A standard air-polishing unit (ProSmile Handly) was used. All specimens were air-powdered for 10 s at 4-bar pressure. The distance of the spray nosel from the specimens was approximately 10 mm and angulation of the nosel was 90°. Specimens were stored in 100 mL of coffee (Nescafe Classic) for 24 h at 37°C. Color measurement of all specimens was recorded before and after exposure to staining agent with a colorimeter (Minolta CR-300). Color differences (∆E*) between the 2 color measurements (baseline and after 24 h storage) were calculated. The data were analyzed with a 2-way ANOVA test, and mean values were compared by the Tukey HSD test (p<0.05). According to the 2-way ANOVA results, composite resin restorative materials, air-polishing powders, and their interaction were statistically significant (p<0.05) For Aelite Aesthetic Enemal, Filtek Z250, Grandio, CeramX Mono, and Quixfil composite resin restorative materials, no significant difference was observed between Group-PS and Group-CP (p>.05) and these groups demonstrated the highest ∆E* values. For Filtek Silorane and IntenS, the highest ∆E* values were observed in Group-PS. The lowest ∆E* values for all composite resin groups were observed in Group-C. When comparing the 7 composite resin restorative materials, Aelite Aesthetic Enemal demonstrated significantly less ∆E* values than the other composite

Effects of air-polishing powders on color stability of composite resins

PubMed Central

GÜLER, Ahmet Umut; DURAN, Ibrahim; YÜCEL, Ali Çagin; ÖZKAN, Pelin

2011-01-01

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different air-polishing powders on the color stability of different types of composite resin restorative materials. Material and methods Thirty cylindrical specimens (15×2 mm) were prepared for each of 7 composite resin restorative materials. All specimens were polished with a series of aluminum oxide polishing discs (Sof-Lex). The prepared specimens of each composite resin were randomly divided into 3 groups of 10 specimens each, for control (Group-C) and two air-powder applications (Group-CP: Cavitron Prophy-Jet; Group-PS: Sirona ProSmile prophylaxis powder). A standard air-polishing unit (ProSmile Handly) was used. All specimens were air-powdered for 10 s at 4-bar pressure. The distance of the spray nosel from the specimens was approximately 10 mm and angulation of the nosel was 90º. Specimens were stored in 100 mL of coffee (Nescafe Classic) for 24 h at 37ºC. Color measurement of all specimens was recorded before and after exposure to staining agent with a colorimeter (Minolta CR-300). Color differences (∆E*) between the 2 color measurements (baseline and after 24 h storage) were calculated. The data were analyzed with a 2-way ANOVA test, and mean values were compared by the Tukey HSD test (p≤0.05). Results According to the 2-way ANOVA results, composite resin restorative materials, air-polishing powders, and their interaction were statistically significant (p<0.05) For Aelite Aesthetic Enemal, Filtek Z250, Grandio, CeramX Mono, and Quixfil composite resin restorative materials, no significant difference was observed between Group-PS and Group-CP (p>.05) and these groups demonstrated the highest ∆E* values. For Filtek Silorane and IntenS, the highest ∆E* values were observed in Group-PS. The lowest ∆E* values for all composite resin groups were observed in Group-C. When comparing the 7 composite resin restorative materials, Aelite Aesthetic Enemal demonstrated significantly less

Transparent and flexible electrodes and supercapacitors using polyaniline/single-walled carbon nanotube composite thin films.

PubMed

Ge, Jun; Cheng, Guanghui; Chen, Liwei

2011-08-01

Large-scale transparent and flexible electronic devices have been pursued for potential applications such as those in touch sensors and display technologies. These applications require that the power source of these devices must also comply with transparent and flexible features. Here we present transparent and flexible supercapacitors assembled from polyaniline (PANI)/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) composite thin film electrodes. The ultrathin, optically homogeneous and transparent, electrically conducting films of the PANI/SWNT composite show a large specific capacitance due to combined double-layer capacitance and pseudo-capacitance mechanisms. A supercapacitor assembled using electrodes with a SWNT density of 10.0 µg cm(-2) and 59 wt% PANI gives a specific capacitance of 55.0 F g(-1) at a current density of 2.6 A g(-1), showing its possibility for transparent and flexible energy storage. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

Hierarchically ordered mesoporous carbon/graphene composites as supercapacitor electrode materials.

PubMed

Song, Yanjie; Li, Zhu; Guo, Kunkun; Shao, Ting

2016-08-25

Hierarchically ordered mesoporous carbon/graphene (OMC/G) composites have been fabricated by means of a solvent-evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) method. The structures of these composites are characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption-desorption at 77 K. These results indicate that OMC/G composites possess the hierarchically ordered hexagonal p6mm mesostructure with the lattice unit parameter and pore diameter close to 10 nm and 3 nm, respectively. The specific surface area of OMC/G composites after KOH activation is high up to 2109.2 m(2) g(-1), which is significantly greater than OMC after activation (1474.6 m(2) g(-1)). Subsequently, the resulting OMC/G composites as supercapacitor electrode materials exhibit an outstanding capacitance as high as 329.5 F g(-1) in 6 M KOH electrolyte at a current density of 0.5 A g(-1), which is much higher than both OMC (234.2 F g(-1)) and a sample made by mechanical mixing of OMC with graphene (217.7 F g(-1)). In addition, the obtained OMC/G composites display good cyclic stability, and the final capacitance retention is approximately 96% after 5000 cycles. These ordered mesopores in the OMC/G composites are beneficial to the accessibility and rapid diffusion of the electrolyte, while graphene in OMC/G composites can also facilitate the transport of electrons during the processes of charging and discharging owing to its high conductivity, thereby leading to an excellent energy storage performance. The method demonstrated in this work would open up a new route to design and develop graphene-based architectures for supercapacitor applications.

Mechanically Strong Graphene/Aramid Nanofiber Composite Electrodes for Structural Energy and Power.

PubMed

Kwon, Se Ra; Harris, John; Zhou, Tianyang; Loufakis, Dimitrios; Boyd, James G; Lutkenhaus, Jodie L

2017-07-25

Structural energy and power systems offer both mechanical and electrochemical performance in a single multifunctional platform. These are of growing interest because they potentially offer reduction in mass and/or volume for aircraft, satellites, and ground transportation. To this end, flexible graphene-based supercapacitors have attracted much attention due to their extraordinary mechanical and electrical properties, yet they suffer from poor strength. This problem may be exacerbated with the inclusion of functional guest materials, often yielding strengths of <15 MPa. Here, we show that graphene paper supercapacitor electrodes containing aramid nanofibers as guest materials exhibit extraordinarily high tensile strength (100.6 MPa) and excellent electrochemical stability. This is achieved by extensive hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions between the graphene sheets and aramid nanofibers. The trade-off between capacitance and mechanical properties is evaluated as a function of aramid nanofiber loading, where it is shown that these electrodes exhibit multifunctionality superior to that of other graphene-based supercapacitors, nearly rivaling those of graphene-based pseudocapacitors. We anticipate these composite electrodes to be a starting point for structural energy and power systems that harness the mechanical properties of aramid nanofibers.

Biopolymer-nanocarbon composite electrodes for use as high-energy high-power density electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karakaya, Mehmet; Roberts, Mark; Arcilla-Velez, Margarita; Zhu, Jingyi; Podila, Ramakrishna; Rao, Apparao

2014-03-01

Supercapacitors (SCs) address our current energy storage and delivery needs by combining the high power, rapid switching, and exceptional cycle life of a capacitor with the high energy density of a battery. Although activated carbon is extensively used as a supercapacitor electrode due to its inexpensive nature, its low specific capacitance (100-120 F/g) fundamentally limits the energy density of SCs. We demonstrate that a nano-carbon based mechanically robust, electrically conducting, free-standing buckypaper electrode modified with an inexpensive biorenewable polymer, viz., lignin increases the electrode's specific capacitance (~ 600-700 F/g) while maintaining rapid discharge rates. In these systems, the carbon nanomaterials provide the high surface area, electrical conductivity and porosity, while the redox polymers provide a mechanism for charge storage through Faradaic charge transfer. The design of redox polymers and their incorporation into nanomaterial electrodes will be discussed with a focus on enabling high power and high energy density electrodes. Research supported by US NSF CMMI Grant 1246800.

Multilayer core-shell structured composite paper electrode consisting of copper, cuprous oxide and graphite assembled on cellulose fibers for asymmetric supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Caichao; Jiao, Yue; Li, Jian

2017-09-01

An easily-operated and inexpensive strategy (pencil-drawing-electrodeposition-electro-oxidation) is proposed to synthesize a novel class of multilayer core-shell structured composite paper electrode, which consists of copper, cuprous oxide and graphite assembled on cellulose fibers. This interesting electrode structure plays a pivotal role in providing more active sites for electrochemical reactions, facilitating ion and electron transport and shorting their diffusion pathways. This electrode demonstrates excellent electrochemical properties with a high specific capacitance of 601 F g-1 at 2 A g-1 and retains 83% of this capacitance when operated at an ultrahigh current density of 100 A g-1. In addition, a high energy density of 13.4 W h kg-1 at the power density of 0.40 kW kg-1 and a favorable cycling stability (95.3%, 8000 cycles) were achieved for this electrode. When this electrode was assembled into an asymmetric supercapacitor with carbon paper as negative electrode, the device displays remarkable electrochemical performances with a large areal capacitances (122 mF cm-2 at 1 mA cm-2), high areal energy density (10.8 μW h cm-2 at 402.5 μW cm-2) and outstanding cycling stability (91.5%, 5000 cycles). These results unveil the potential of this composite electrode as a high-performance electrode material for supercapacitors.

The design of and chronic tissue response to a composite nerve electrode with patterned stiffness.

PubMed

Freeberg, M J; Stone, M A; Triolo, R J; Tyler, D J

2017-06-01

As neural interfaces demonstrate success in chronic applications, a novel class of reshaping electrodes with patterned regions of stiffness will enable application to a widening range of anatomical locations. Patterning stiff regions and flexible regions of the electrode enables nerve reshaping while accommodating anatomical constraints of various implant locations ranging from peripheral nerves to spinal and autonomic plexi. Introduced is a new composite electrode enabling patterning of regions of various electrode mechanical properties. The initial demonstration of the composite's capability is the composite flat interface nerve electrode (C-FINE). The C-FINE is constructed from a sandwich of patterned PEEK within layers of pliable silicone. The shape of the PEEK provides a desired pattern of stiffness: stiff across the width of the nerve to reshape the nerve, but flexible along its length to allow for bending with the nerve. This is particularly important in anatomical locations near joints or organs, and in constrained compartments. We tested pressure and volume design constraints in vitro to verify that the C-FINE can attain a safe cuff-to-nerve ratio (CNR) without impeding intraneural blood flow. We measured nerve function as well as nerve and axonal morphology following 3 month implantation of the C-FINE without wires on feline peripheral nerves in anatomically constrained areas near mobile joints and major blood vessels in both the hind and fore limbs. In vitro inflation tests showed effective CNRs (1.93  ±  0.06) that exceeded the industry safety standard of 1.5 at an internal pressure of 20 mmHg. This is less than the 30 mmHg shown to induce loss of conduction or compromise blood flow. Implanted cats showed no changes in physiology or electrophysiology. Behavioral signs were normal suggesting healthy nerves. Motor nerve conduction velocity and compound motor action potential did not change significantly between implant and explant (p�

Non-Contact Inspection of Composites Using Air-Coupled Ultrasound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, J.; Kommareddy, V.; Liu, Z.; Fei, D.; Hsu, D.

2003-03-01

Conventional ultrasonic tests are conducted using water as a transmitting medium. Water coupled ultrasound cannot be applied to certain water-sensitive or porous materials and is more difficult to use in the field. In contrast, air-coupled ultrasound is non-contact and has clear advantages over water-coupled testing. The technology of air-coupled ultrasound has gained maturity in recent years. Some systems have become commercially available and researchers are pursuing several different modalities of air-coupled transduction. This paper reports our experience of applying air-coupled ultrasound to the inspection of flaws, damage, and normal internal structures of composite parts. Through-transmission C-scans at 400 kHz using a focused receiver has resolution sufficient to image honeycomb cells in the sandwich core. With the transmitter and receiver on the same side of a laminate. Lamb waves were generated and used for the imaging of substructures. Air-coupled scan results are presented for flaw detection and damage in aircraft composite structures.

Facile synthesis of CoNi2S4/Co9S8 composites as advanced electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Fenglin; Huang, Wanxia; Zhang, Hongtao; Zhou, Dengmei

2017-12-01

In this paper, a facile chemical bath deposition method was utilized to synthesize three-dimensional nanostructured CoNi2S4/Co9S8 (CNSCS) composites as advanced electrode materials for high performance supercapacitors. CNSCS composites showed remarkable electrochemical performance owing to the high porosity, appropriate pore size distribution, novel architecture and synergistic effect of Ni/Co ions. The electrochemical tests revealed that CNSCS composites exhibited high specific capacitance (1183.3 Fg-1 at the current density of 2 Ag-1), excellent rate performance (74.9% retention with tenfold current density increase) and outstanding cycle life stability. Moreover, the effect of temperature on electrochemical performance of CNSCS composites was investigated and the results indicated the specific capacitance of CoNi2S4/Co9S8 can keep relatively stable in a wide temperature from 0 °C to 50 °C. These results indicated that the synthesized CNSCS composites can be a promising electrode materials candidate for supercapacitors and chemical bath deposition is a promising processing route for CNSCS composites production.

Enhanced capacitance and rate capability of graphene/polypyrrole composite as electrode material for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dacheng; Zhang, Xiong; Chen, Yao; Yu, Peng; Wang, Changhui; Ma, Yanwei

Graphene and polypyrrole composite (PPy/GNS) is synthesized via in situ polymerization of pyrrole monomer in the presence of graphene under acid conditions. The structure and morphology of the composite are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), X-rays photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). It is found that a uniform composite is formed with polypyrrole being homogeneously surrounded by graphene nanosheets (GNS). The composite is a promising candidate for supercapacitors to have higher specific capacitance, better rate capability and cycling stability than those of pure polypyrrole. The specific capacitance of PPy/GNS composite based on the three-electrode cell configuration is as high as 482 F g -1 at a current density of 0.5 A g -1. After 1000 cycles, the attenuation of the specific capacitance is less than 5%, indicating that composite has excellent cycling performance.

Mesoporous MnO2/carbon aerogel composites as promising electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors.

PubMed

Li, Gao-Ren; Feng, Zhan-Ping; Ou, Yan-Nan; Wu, Dingcai; Fu, Ruowen; Tong, Ye-Xiang

2010-02-16

MnO(2) as one of the most promising candidates for electrochemical supercapacitors has attracted much attention because of its superior electrochemical performance, low cost, and environmentally benign nature. In this Letter, we explored a novel route to prepare mesoporous MnO(2)/carbon aerogel composites by electrochemical deposition assisted by gas bubbles. The products were characterized by energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The MnO(2) deposits are found to have high purity and have a mesoporous structure that will optimize the electronic and ionic conductivity to minimize the total resistance of the system and thereby maximize the performance characteristics of this material for use in supercapacitor electrodes. The results of nitrogen adsorption-desorption experiments and electrochemical measurements showed that these obtained mesoporous MnO(2)/carbon aerogel composites had a large specific surface area (120 m(2)/g), uniform pore-size distribution (around 5 nm), high specific capacitance (515.5 F/g), and good stability over 1000 cycles, which give these composites potential application as high-performance supercapacitor electrode materials.

Enhanced electrodes for solid state gas sensors

DOEpatents

Garzon, Fernando H.; Brosha, Eric L.

2001-01-01

A solid state gas sensor generates an electrical potential between an equilibrium electrode and a second electrode indicative of a gas to be sensed. A solid electrolyte substrate has the second electrode mounted on a first portion of the electrolyte substrate and a composite equilibrium electrode including conterminous transition metal oxide and Pt components mounted on a second portion of the electrolyte substrate. The composite equilibrium electrode and the second electrode are electrically connected to generate an electrical potential indicative of the gas that is being sensed. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the second electrode is a reference electrode that is exposed to a reference oxygen gas mixture so that the electrical potential is indicative of the oxygen in a gas stream.

Carbon nanotube-graphene composite for ionic polymer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Woosung; Choi, Hyonkwang; Choi, Suho; Jeon, Minhyon; Lee, Seung-Yop

2012-05-01

In this paper, we develop a new ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) by replacing a typical platinum or gold electrode with a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT)-graphene based electrode. A solvent of MWNT and graphene is formed on both sides of the ionic polymer membranes as electrodes by means of spray coating and baking. Then, the ionic liquid process is performed for actuating in air. The four kinds of IPMC samples with different MWNT-graphene ratios are fabricated with the same solid Nafion film. Experimental results show that the IPMC with a pure MWNT based electrode exhibits higher displacement compared to the conventional IPMC with a platinum electrode. Also, the increment of the ratio of graphene to the MWNT-graphene electrode decreases the resultant displacement but increases the fundamental natural frequency of the polymer actuator.

Enhancement of the efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cell with multi-wall carbon nanotubes/polypyrrole composite counter electrodes prepared by electrophoresis/electrochemical polymerization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Luo, Jun; Niu, Hai-jun; Wen, Hai-lin

2013-03-15

Graphical abstract: The overall energy conversion efficiency of the DSSC employing the MWCNT/PPy CE reached 3.78%. Compared with a reference DSSC using single MWCNT film CE with efficiency of 2.68%, the energy conversion efficiency was increased by 41.04%. Highlights: ► MWCNT/PPy composite film prepared by electrodeposition layer by layer was used as counter electrode in DSSC. ► The overall energy conversion efficiency of the DSSC was 3.78% by employing the composite film. ► The energy conversion efficiency increased by 41.04% compared with efficiency of 2.68% by using the single MWCNT film. ► We analyzed the mechanism and influence factor ofmore » electron transfer in the composite electrode by EIS. - Abstract: For the purpose of replacing the precious Pt counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) with higher energy conversion efficiency, multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/polypyrrole (PPy) double layers film counter electrode (CE) was fabricated by electrophoresis and cyclic voltammetry (CV) layer by layer. Atom force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) demonstrated the morphologies of the composite electrode and Raman spectroscopy verified the PPy had come into being. The overall energy conversion efficiency of the DSSC employing the MWCNT/PPy CE reached 3.78%. Compared with a reference DSSC using single MWCNT film CE with efficiency of 2.68%, the energy conversion efficiency was increased by 41.04%. The result of impedance showed that the charge transfer resistance R{sub ct} of the MWCNT/PPy CE had the lowest value compared to that of MWCNT or PPy electrode. These results indicate that the composite film with high conductivity, high active surface area, and good catalytic properties for I{sub 3}{sup −} reduction can potentially be used as the CE in a high-performance DSSC.« less

Recirculating electric air filter

DOEpatents

Bergman, W.

1985-01-09

An electric air filter cartridge has a cylindrical inner high voltage electrode, a layer of filter material, and an outer ground electrode formed of a plurality of segments moveably connected together. The outer electrode can be easily opened to remove or insert filter material. Air flows through the two electrodes and the filter material and is exhausted from the center of the inner electrode.

Dilute NiO/carbon nanofiber composites derived from metal organic framework fibers as electrode materials for supercapacitors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, Ying; Yang, Feng; Hu, Hongru

A new type of carbon nanofiber (CNF) dominated electrode materials decorated with dilute NiO particles (NiO/CNF) has been in situ fabricated by direct pyrolysis of Ni, Zn-containing metal organic framework fibers, which are skillfully constructed by assembling different proportional NiCl2·6H2O and Zn(Ac)2·2H2O with trimesic acid in the presence of N,N-dimethylformamide. With elegant combination of advantages of CNF and evenly dispersed NiO particles, as well as successful modulation of conductivity and porosity of final composites, our NiO/CNF composites display well-defined capacitive features. A high capacitance of 14926 F g–1 was obtained in 6 M KOH electrolyte when the contribution from 0.43more » wt% NiO was considered alone, contributing to over 35% of the total capacitance (234 F g–1 ). This significantly exceeds its theoretical specific capacitance of 2584 F g–1. It has been established from the Ragone plot that a largest energy density of 33.4 Wh kg–1 was obtained at the current density of 0.25 A g–1. Furthermore, such composite electrode materials show good rate capability and outstanding cycling stability up to 5000 times (only 10% loss). The present study provides a brand-new approach to design a high capacitance and stable supercapacitor electrode and the concept is extendable to other composite materials. Keywords: Metal organic framework; Nickel oxide; Carbon nanofiber; In situ synthesis; Capacitance« less

Preparation and photoelectrocatalytic performance of N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material.

PubMed

Cheng, Zhi-Lin; Han, Shuai

2016-01-01

A novel composite electrode material based on a N-doped TiO2-loaded NaY zeolite membrane (N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane) for photoelectrocatalysis was presented. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-visible (UV-vis) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization techniques were used to analyze the structure of the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane. The XRD and SEM results verified that the N-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with the size of ca. 20 nm have been successfully loaded on the porous stainless steel-supported NaY zeolite membrane. The UV-vis result showed that the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane exhibited a more obvious red-shift than that of N-TiO2 nanoparticles. The XPS characterization revealed that the doping of N element into TiO2 was successfully achieved. The photoelectrocatalysis performance of the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material was evaluated by phenol removal and also the effects of reaction conditions on the catalytic performance were investigated. Owing to exhibiting an excellent catalytic activity and good recycling stability, the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material was of promising application for photoelectrocatalysis in wastewater treatment.

Influence of electrode preparation on the electrochemical performance of LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 composite electrodes for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tran, Hai Yen; Greco, Giorgia; Täubert, Corina; Wohlfahrt-Mehrens, Margret; Haselrieder, Wolfgang; Kwade, Arno

2012-07-01

The electrode manufacturing for lithium-ion batteries is based on a complex process chain with several influencing factors. A proper tailoring of the electrodes can greatly improve both the electrochemical performances and the energy density of the battery. In the present work, some significant parameters during the preparation of LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2-based cathodes were investigated. The active material was mixed with a PVDF-binder and two conductive additives in different ratios. The electrode thickness, the degree of compacting and the conductive agent type and mixing ratio have proven to have a strong impact on the electrochemical performances of the composite electrodes, especially on their behaviour at high C-rates. Further it has been shown that the compacting has an essential influence on the mechanical properties of NCA coatings, according to their total, ductile and elastic deformation behaviour.

Flexible Electrode Design: Fabrication of Freestanding Polyaniline-Based Composite Films for High-Performance Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Khosrozadeh, Ali; Darabi, Mohammad Ali; Xing, Malcolm; Wang, Quan

2016-05-11

Polyaniline (PANI) is a promising pseudocapacitance electrode material. However, its structural instability leads to low cyclic stability and limited rate capability which hinders its practical applications. In view of the limitations, flexible PANI-based composite films are developed to improve the electrochemical performance of electrode materials. We report in the research a facile and cost-effective approach for fabrication of a high-performance supercapacitor (SC) with excellent cyclic stability and tunable energy and power densities. SC electrode containing a very high mass loading of active materials is a flexible film of PANI, tissue wiper-based cellulose, graphite-based exfoliated graphite (ExG), and silver nanoparticles with potential applications in wearable electronics. The optimum preparation weight ratios of silver nitrate/aniline and ExG/aniline used in the research are estimated to be 0.18 and 0.65 (or higher), respectively. Our results show that an ultrahigh capacitance of 3.84 F/cm(2) (240.10 F/g) at a discharge rate of 5 mA can be achieved. In addition, our study shows that the power density can be increased from 1531.3 to 3000 W/kg by selecting the weight ratio of ExG/aniline to be more than 0.65, with a sacrifice in the energy density. The obtained promising electrochemical properties are found to be mainly attributed to an effective combination of PANI, ExG, cushiony cellulose scaffold, and silver as well as the porosity of the composite.

Core-Shell Composite Fibers for High-Performance Flexible Supercapacitor Electrodes.

PubMed

Lu, Xiaoyan; Shen, Chen; Zhang, Zeyang; Barrios, Elizabeth; Zhai, Lei

2018-01-31

Core-shell nanofibers containing poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and manganese oxide nanoparticles as the core and polypyrrole (PPy) as the shell were fabricated through electrospinning the solution of PAA and manganese ions (PAA/Mn 2+ ). The obtained nanofibers were stabilized by Fe 3+ through the interaction between Fe 3+ ions and carboxylate groups. Subsequent oxidation of Mn 2+ by KMnO 4 produced uniform manganese dioxide (MnO 2 ) nanoparticles in the fibers. A PPy shell was created on the fibers by immersing the fibers in a pyrrole solution where the Fe 3+ ions in the fiber polymerized the pyrrole on the fiber surfaces. In the MnO 2 @PAA/PPy core-shell composite fibers, MnO 2 nanoparticles function as high-capacity materials, while the PPy shell prevents the loss of MnO 2 during the charge/discharge process. Such a unique structure makes the composite fibers efficient electrode materials for supercapacitors. The gravimetric specific capacity of the MnO 2 @PAA/PPy core-shell composite fibers was 564 F/g based on cyclic voltammetry curves at 10 mV/s and 580 F/g based on galvanostatic charge/discharge studies at 5 A/g. The MnO 2 @PAA/PPy core-shell composite fibers also present stable cycling performance with 100% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles.

COMPOSITION CHANGES IN REFRIGERANT BLENDS FOR AUTOMOTIVE AIR CONDITIONING

EPA Science Inventory

Three refrigerant blends used to replace CFC-12 in automotive air conditioners were evaluated for composition changes due to typical servicing and leakage. When recommended service procedures were followed, changes in blend compositions were relatively small. Small changes in b...

Facile synthesis of CuFe2O4-Fe2O3 composite for high-performance supercapacitor electrode applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Rashid; Habib, Muhammad; Gondal, Mohammed A.; Khalil, Adnan; Rehman, Zia Ur; Muhammad, Zahir; Haleem, Yasir A.; Wang, Changda; Wu, Chuan Qiang; Song, Li

2017-10-01

We report the synthesis of CuFe2O4-Fe2O3 composite material for efficient and highly stable supercapacitor electrode by using eco-friendly low-temperature co-precipitation method. The CuFe2O4-Fe2O3 composite demonstrated the highest specific capacitance of 638.24 F g-1 and excellent stability up to 2000 charge/discharge cycles. The achieved capacitance value is 16 times higher than that of pure CuFe2O4. The results revealed the extraordinary performance of CuFe2O4-Fe2O3 composite as supercapacitor electrode with excellent retention in comparison to CuFe2O4. The enhanced electrochemical activity of CuFe2O4-Fe2O3 composite is attributed to the synergistic effect which is responsible for redox coupling between Cu2+ and Fe3+ that has never been achieved by single component before.

[Design and experiment of a needle-to-cylinder electrode structure realizing the negative DC glow discharge in ambient air].

PubMed

Li, Hua; Wei, Chang-Yan; Liu, Chun-Xia; Shen, Xian-Hao; Chen, Zhen-Cheng

2014-07-01

A new needle-to-cylinder electrode structure was designed to realize the stable glow discharge in ambient air. The stainless steel needle tip with diameter 56.4 microm and the copper cylinder with diameter 4mm were chosen as the cathode and the anode respectively, which were kept parallel by accurate mechanical structure. In the condition that the distance between the needle and the cylinder is 2 mm, the ballasting resistor is 10 M(omega), the discharge resistor is 10 M(omega), the testing resistor is 1 k(omega), and the discharge voltage is -2 740 V, without air flow in ambient air and at room temperature, the stable glow discharge between the needle and the cylinder was realized. Three different discharge modes can be observed: corona discharge, glow discharge and spark, which were verified by the discharge waveform stored in the oscilloscope, and the discharge pictures were recorded by digital camera. The needle-to-cylinder electrode structure is easy to fabricate by the MEMS technology, which can be used as the ion source of the portable analyzing instruments.

Electrochemical Selective and Simultaneous Detection of Diclofenac and Ibuprofen in Aqueous Solution Using HKUST-1 Metal-Organic Framework-Carbon Nanofiber Composite Electrode.

PubMed

Motoc, Sorina; Manea, Florica; Iacob, Adriana; Martinez-Joaristi, Alberto; Gascon, Jorge; Pop, Aniela; Schoonman, Joop

2016-10-17

In this study, the detection protocols for the individual, selective, and simultaneous determination of ibuprofen (IBP) and diclofenac (DCF) in aqueous solutions have been developed using HKUST-1 metal-organic framework-carbon nanofiber composite (HKUST-CNF) electrode. The morphological and electrical characterization of modified composite electrode prepared by film casting was studied by scanning electronic microscopy and four-point-probe methods. The electrochemical characterization of the electrode by cyclic voltammetry (CV) was considered the reference basis for the optimization of the operating conditions for chronoamperometry (CA) and multiple-pulsed amperometry (MPA). This electrode exhibited the possibility to selectively detect IBP and DCF by simple switching the detection potential using CA. However, the MPA operated under optimum working conditions of four potential levels selected based on CV shape in relation to the potential value, pulse time, and potential level number, and order allowed the selective/simultaneous detection of IBP and DCF characterized by the enhanced detection performance. For this application, the HKUST-CNF electrode exhibited a good stability and reproducibility of the results was achieved.

Electrochemical Selective and Simultaneous Detection of Diclofenac and Ibuprofen in Aqueous Solution Using HKUST-1 Metal-Organic Framework-Carbon Nanofiber Composite Electrode

PubMed Central

Motoc, Sorina; Manea, Florica; Iacob, Adriana; Martinez-Joaristi, Alberto; Gascon, Jorge; Pop, Aniela; Schoonman, Joop

2016-01-01

In this study, the detection protocols for the individual, selective, and simultaneous determination of ibuprofen (IBP) and diclofenac (DCF) in aqueous solutions have been developed using HKUST-1 metal-organic framework-carbon nanofiber composite (HKUST-CNF) electrode. The morphological and electrical characterization of modified composite electrode prepared by film casting was studied by scanning electronic microscopy and four-point-probe methods. The electrochemical characterization of the electrode by cyclic voltammetry (CV) was considered the reference basis for the optimization of the operating conditions for chronoamperometry (CA) and multiple-pulsed amperometry (MPA). This electrode exhibited the possibility to selectively detect IBP and DCF by simple switching the detection potential using CA. However, the MPA operated under optimum working conditions of four potential levels selected based on CV shape in relation to the potential value, pulse time, and potential level number, and order allowed the selective/simultaneous detection of IBP and DCF characterized by the enhanced detection performance. For this application, the HKUST-CNF electrode exhibited a good stability and reproducibility of the results was achieved. PMID:27763509

Electrochemical Properties of Graphene Oxide/Resol Composites as Electrode Materials for Supercapacitor Applications.

PubMed

Park, Geon Woo; Jeon, Sang Kwon; Yang, Jin Yong; Choi, Sung Dae; Kim, Geon Joong

2016-05-01

RGO/Resol carbon composites were prepared from a mixture of reduced GO and a low-molecular-weight phenolic resin (Resol) solution. The effects of the calcination temperature, amount of Resol added and KOH treatment on the electrochemical performance of the RGO/Resol composites were investigated. The physical and electrochemical properties of the composite materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET) surface areas measurements, and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The relationships between their physical properties and their electrochemical performance were examined for use as super-capacitors (SCs). The RGO/Resol composite calcined at 400 degrees C after the KOH loading showed dramatically improved electrochemical properties, showing a high BET surface and capacitance of 2190 m2/g and 220 F/g, respectively. The RGO/Resol composites calcined after the KOH treatment showed much better capacitor performance than those treated only thermally at the same temperature without KOH impregnation. The fabrication of high surface electrodes was essential for improving the SCs properties.

On the use of pulsed Dielectric Barrier Discharges to control the gas-phase composition of atmospheric pressure air plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barni, R.; Biganzoli, I.; Dell'Orto, E.; Riccardi, C.

2014-11-01

We presents results obtained from the numerical simulation of the gas-phase chemical kinetics in atmospheric pressure air non-equilibrium plasmas. In particular we have addressed the effect of pulsed operation mode of a plane dielectric barrier discharge. It was conjectured that the large difference in the time scales involved in the fast dissociation of oxygen molecules in plasma and their subsequent reactions to produce ozone and nitrogen oxides, makes the presence of a continuously repeated plasma production unnecessary and a waste of electrical power and thus efficiency. In order to test such suggestion we have performed a numerical study of the composition and the temporal evolution of the gas-phase of atmospheric pressure air non-equilibrium plasmas. Comparison with experimental findings in a dielectric barrier discharge with an electrode configuration symmetrical and almost ideally plane is briefly addressed too, using plasma diagnostics to extract the properties of the single micro-discharges and a sensor to measure the concentration of ozone produced by the plasma.

Room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free nano-composite for the flexible transparent bottom electrode of perovskite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Haifei; Sun, Jingsong; Zhang, Hong; Lu, Shunmian; Choy, Wallace C. H.

2016-03-01

The exploration of low-temperature and solution-processed charge transporting and collecting layers can promote the development of low-cost and large-scale perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) through an all solution process. Here, we propose a room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free nano-composite composed of a silver nano-network and graphene oxide (GO) flawless film for the transparent bottom electrode of a PVSC. Our experimental results show that the amount of GO flakes play a critical role in forming the flawless anti-corrosive barrier in the silver nano-network through a self-assembly approach under ambient atmosphere, which can effectively prevent the penetration of liquid or gaseous halides and their corrosion against the silver nano-network underneath. Importantly, we simultaneously achieve good work function alignment and surface wetting properties for a practical bottom electrode by controlling the degree of reduction of GO flakes. Finally, flexible PVSC adopting the room-temperature and solution-processed nano-composite as the flexible transparent bottom electrode has been demonstrated on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. As a consequence, the demonstration of our room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free flexible transparent bottom electrode will contribute to the emerging large-area flexible PVSC technologies.The exploration of low-temperature and solution-processed charge transporting and collecting layers can promote the development of low-cost and large-scale perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) through an all solution process. Here, we propose a room-temperature solution-processed and metal oxide-free nano-composite composed of a silver nano-network and graphene oxide (GO) flawless film for the transparent bottom electrode of a PVSC. Our experimental results show that the amount of GO flakes play a critical role in forming the flawless anti-corrosive barrier in the silver nano-network through a self

Electrochemical Determination of Chlorpyrifos on a Nano-TiO₂Cellulose Acetate Composite Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode.

PubMed

Kumaravel, Ammasai; Chandrasekaran, Maruthai

2015-07-15

A rapid and simple method of determination of chlorpyrifos is important in environmental monitoring and quality control. Electrochemical methods for the determination of pesticides are fast, sensitive, reproducible, and cost-effective. The key factor in electrochemical methods is the choice of suitable electrode materials. The electrode materials should have good stability, reproducibility, more sensitivity, and easy method of preparation. Mercury-based electrodes have been widely used for the determination of chlorpyrifos. From an environmental point of view mercury cannot be used. In this study a biocompatible nano-TiO2/cellulose acetate modified glassy carbon electrode was prepared by a simple method and used for the electrochemical sensing of chlorpyrifos in aqueous methanolic solution. Electroanalytical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, and amperometry were used in this work. This electrode showed very good stability, reproducibility, and sensitivity. A well-defined peak was obtained for the reduction of chlorpyrifos in cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. A smooth noise-free current response was obtained in amperometric analysis. The peak current obtained was proportional to the concentration of chlorpyrifos and was used to determine the unknown concentration of chlorpyrifos in the samples. Analytical parameters such as LOD, LOQ, and linear range were estimated. Analysis of real samples was also carried out. The results were validated through HPLC. This composite electrode can be used as an alternative to mercury electrodes reported in the literature.

Durable and water-floatable ionic polymer actuator with hydrophobic and asymmetrically laser-scribed reduced graphene oxide paper electrodes.

PubMed

Kim, Jaehwan; Jeon, Jin-Han; Kim, Hyun-Jun; Lim, Hyuneui; Oh, Il-Kwon

2014-03-25

Ionic polymer actuators driven by electrical stimuli have been widely investigated for use in practical applications such as bioinspired robots, sensors, and biomedical devices. However, conventional ionic polymer-metal composite actuators have a serious drawback of poor durability under long-term actuation in open air, mainly because of the leakage of the inner electrolyte and hydrated cations through cracks in the metallic electrodes. Here, we developed a highly durable and water-floatable ionic polymer artificial muscle by employing hydrophobic and asymmetrically laser-scribed reduced graphene oxide paper electrodes (HLrGOP). The highly conductive, flexible, and cost-effective HLrGOP electrodes have asymmetrically smooth hydrophobic outer and rough inner surfaces, resulting in liquid-impermeable and water-floatable functionalities and strong bonding between an ionic polymer and the electrodes. More interestingly, the HLrGOP electrode, which has a unique functionality to prevent the leakage of the vaporized or liquid electrolyte and mobile ions during electrical stimuli, greatly contributes to an exceptionally durable ionic polymer-graphene composite actuator that is a prerequisite for practical applications in active biomedical devices, biomimetic robots, touch-feedback haptic systems, and flexible soft electronics.

Manganese oxide composite electrodes for lithium batteries

DOEpatents

Thackeray, Michael M.; Johnson, Christopher S.; Li, Naichao

2007-12-04

An activated electrode for a non-aqueous electrochemical cell is disclosed with a precursor of a lithium metal oxide with the formula xLi.sub.2MnO.sub.3.(1-x)LiMn.sub.2-yM.sub.yO.sub.4 for 0electrode is activated by removing lithia, or lithium and lithia, from the precursor. A cell and battery are also disclosed incorporating the disclosed positive electrode.

Facile construction of 3D graphene/MoS2 composites as advanced electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Tianhua; Li, Zhangpeng; Liu, Xiaohong; Ma, Limin; Wang, Jinqing; Yang, Shengrong

2016-11-01

Flower-like molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) microstructures are synthesized based on three-dimensional graphene (3DG) skeleton via a simple and facile one-step hydrothermal method, aiming at constructing series of novel composite electrode materials of 3DG/MoS2 with high electrochemical performances for supercapacitors. The electrochemical properties of the samples are evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge tests. Specifically, the optimal 3DG/MoS2 composite exhibits remarkable performances with a high specific capacitance of 410 F g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1 and an excellent cycling stability with ca. 80.3% capacitance retention after 10,000 continuous charge-discharge cycles at a high current density of 2 A g-1, making it adaptive for high-performance supercapacitors. The enhanced electrochemical performances can be ascribed to the combination of 3DG and flower-like MoS2, which provides excellent charge transfer network and electrolyte diffusion channels while effectively prevents the collapse, aggregation and morphology change of active materials during charge-discharge process. The results demonstrate that 3DG/MoS2 composite is one of the attractive electrode materials for supercapacitors.

Recirculating electric air filter

DOEpatents

Bergman, Werner

1986-01-01

An electric air filter cartridge has a cylindrical inner high voltage eleode, a layer of filter material, and an outer ground electrode formed of a plurality of segments moveably connected together. The outer electrode can be easily opened to remove or insert filter material. Air flows through the two electrodes and the filter material and is exhausted from the center of the inner electrode.

High Energy Density All Solid State Asymmetric Pseudocapacitors Based on Free Standing Reduced Graphene Oxide-Co3O4 Composite Aerogel Electrodes.

PubMed

Ghosh, Debasis; Lim, Joonwon; Narayan, Rekha; Kim, Sang Ouk

2016-08-31

Modern flexible consumer electronics require efficient energy storage devices with flexible free-standing electrodes. We report a simple and cost-effective route to a graphene-based composite aerogel encapsulating metal oxide nanoparticles for high energy density, free-standing, binder-free flexible pseudocapacitive electrodes. Hydrothermally synthesized Co3O4 nanoparticles are successfully housed inside the microporous graphene aerogel network during the room temperature interfacial gelation at the Zn surface. The resultant three-dimensional (3D) rGO-Co3O4 composite aerogel shows mesoporous quasiparallel layer stack morphology with a high loading of Co3O4, which offers numerous channels for ion transport and a 3D interconnected network for high electrical conductivity. All solid state asymmetric pseudocapacitors employing the composite aerogel electrodes have demonstrated high areal energy density of 35.92 μWh/cm(2) and power density of 17.79 mW/cm(2) accompanied by excellent cycle life.

Enhancement of anodic biofilm formation and current output in microbial fuel cells by composite modification of stainless steel electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yuxiang; Feng, Huajun; Shen, Dongsheng; Li, Na; Guo, Kun; Zhou, Yuyang; Xu, Jing; Chen, Wei; Jia, Yufeng; Huang, Bin

2017-02-01

In this paper, we first systematically investigate the current output performance of stainless steel electrodes (SS) modified by carbon coating (CC), polyaniline coating (PANI), neutral red grafting (NR), surface hydrophilization (SDBS), and heat treatment (HEAT). The maximum current density of 13.0 A m-2 is obtained on CC electrode (3.0 A m-2 of the untreated anode). Such high performance should be attributed to its large effective surface area, which is 2.3 times that of the unmodified electrode. Compared with SS electrode, about 3-fold increase in current output is achieved with PANI. Functionalization with hydrophilic group and electron medium result in the current output rising to 1.5-2 fold, through enhancing bioadhesive and electron transport rate, respectively. CC modification is the best choice of single modification for SS electrode in this study. However, this modification is not perfect because of its poor hydrophilicity. So CC electrode is modified by SDBS for further enhancing the current output to 16 A m-2. These results could provide guidance for the choice of suitable single modification on SS electrodes and a new method for the perfection of electrode performance through composite modification.

Robust myoelectric signal detection based on stochastic resonance using multiple-surface-electrode array made of carbon nanotube composite paper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirata, Kento; Inden, Yuki; Kasai, Seiya; Oya, Takahide; Hagiwara, Yosuke; Kaeriyama, Shunichi; Nakamura, Hideyuki

2016-04-01

We investigated the robust detection of surface electromyogram (EMG) signals based on the stochastic resonance (SR) phenomenon, in which the response to weak signals is optimized by adding noise, combined with multiple surface electrodes. Flexible carbon nanotube composite paper (CNT-cp) was applied to the surface electrode, which showed good performance that is comparable to that of conventional Ag/AgCl electrodes. The SR-based EMG signal system integrating an 8-Schmitt-trigger network and the multiple-CNT-cp-electrode array successfully detected weak EMG signals even when the subject’s body is in the motion, which was difficult to achieve using the conventional technique. The feasibility of the SR-based EMG detection technique was confirmed by demonstrating its applicability to robot hand control.

Electrochemical characteristics of flexible micro supercapacitors with reduced graphene oxide-carbon nanotubes composite electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Kyungwhan; Cho, Kyoungah; Kim, Sangsig

2018-06-01

In this study, we fabricate solid-state flexible micro-supercapacitors (MSCs) with reduced graphene oxide-carbon nanotube (rGO-CNT) composite electrodes and investigate the electrochemical characteristics by comparing with those of an MSC with rGO electrodes. Regarding the resistance-capacitance time constant and IR drop, the addition of CNTs into the rGO electrodes shows a significant effect owing to both the decrease in the resistance and the increase in the permeability of the electrolytes. Compared to the rGO MSCs, the rGO-CNT MSCs show an excellent areal capacitance of 2.6 mF/cm2, a smaller IR drop of 11 mV, a lower RC time constant of 6 ms, and faster charging/discharging rates with a high scan rate ability up to 100 V/s. The mechanical stability of the flexible rGO-CNT MSCs is verified by 1000 bending cycles. In addition, the electrochemical characteristics of the flexible rGO-CNT MSCs are maintained regardless of the MSC array type.

A study of fullerene-quantum dot composite structure on substrates with a transparent electrode layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavlov, S. I.; Kirilenko, D. A.; Nashchekin, A. V.; Sokolov, R. V.; Konnikov, S. G.

2015-02-01

We have studied the structure of films consisting of fullerene clusters and a related fullerene-based composite with incorporated quantum dots. The films were obtained by electrophoretic deposition from solution onto glass substrates with a transparent indium-doped tin oxide (ITO) electrode layer. The average cluster size, as measured by electron microscopy, amounts to 300 nm in pure fullerene films and 800 nm in the composite material. Electron diffraction measurements showed that pure fullerene clusters had an fcc lattice, while the introduction of quantum dots rendered the fullerene matrix predominantly amorphous.

Recovery of V(V) from complex vanadium solution using capacitive deionization (CDI) with resin/carbon composite electrode.

PubMed

Bao, Shenxu; Duan, Jihua; Zhang, Yimin

2018-05-25

The resin-activated carbon composite (RAC) electrodes were fabricated and applied in capacitive deionization for recovery of V(V) from complex vanadium solution. The adsorption capacity of the RAC electrode for V(V) is extremely low and the reduction of V(V) is significant in low pH solution, but the adsorbed V(V) on the electrode increases obviously and the reduction of V(V) gradually diminishes with the rise of pH. However, as the pH is increased to 10, the adsorbed V(V) on the RAC electrode declines. The higher applied potential is beneficial to the adsorption of V(V) and 1.0 V is appropriate for the adsorption. The impurities ions (Al, P and Si) are mainly adsorbed in the electric double layers on the RAC electrode and V(V) is dominantly adsorbed by the resins in the electrode. The adsorbed impurity ions can be easily removed by diluted H 2 SO 4 and V(V) can be effectively eluted by 10% NaOH solution. The vanadium-bearing eluent can be recycled to recover and enrich vanadium from the complex solution. The performance of the RAC electrode keeps stable during the cyclic operation. This study may provide a promising and novel method for the recovery and separation of metals from aqueous solution. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

VISCOSITY AND BINDER COMPOSITION EFFECTS ON TYROSINASE-BASED CARBON PASTE ELECTRODE FOR DETECTION OF PHENOL AND CATECHOL

EPA Science Inventory

The systematic study of the effect of binder viscosity on the sensitivity of a tyrosinase-based carbon paste electrode (CPE) biosensor for phenol and catechol is reported. Silicon oil binders with similar (polydimethylsiloxane) chemical composition were used to represent a wid...

Contribution of Vegetation to the Microbial Composition of Nearby Outdoor Air

PubMed Central

Adams, Rachel I.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Given that epiphytic microbes are often found in large population sizes on plants, we tested the hypothesis that plants are quantitatively important local sources of airborne microorganisms. The abundance of microbial communities, determined by quantifying bacterial 16S RNA genes and the fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, in air collected directly above vegetation was 2- to 10-fold higher than that in air collected simultaneously in an adjacent nonvegetated area 50 m upwind. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling revealed that the composition of airborne bacteria in upwind air samples grouped separately from that of downwind air samples, while communities on plants and downwind air could not be distinguished. In contrast, fungal taxa in air samples were more similar to each other than to the fungal epiphytes. A source-tracking algorithm revealed that up to 50% of airborne bacteria in downwind air samples were presumably of local plant origin. The difference in the proportional abundances of a given operational taxonomic unit (OTU) between downwind and upwind air when regressed against the proportional representation of this OTU on the plant yielded a positive slope for both bacteria and fungi, indicating that those taxa that were most abundant on plants proportionally contributed more to downwind air. Epiphytic fungi were less of a determinant of the microbiological distinctiveness of downwind air and upwind air than epiphytic bacteria. Emigration of epiphytic bacteria and, to a lesser extent, fungi, from plants can thus influence the microbial composition of nearby air, a finding that has important implications for surrounding ecosystems, including the built environment into which outdoor air can penetrate. IMPORTANCE This paper addresses the poorly understood role of bacterial and fungal epiphytes, the inhabitants of the aboveground plant parts, in the composition of airborne microbes in outdoor air. It is widely held that epiphytes contribute

Contribution of Vegetation to the Microbial Composition of Nearby Outdoor Air.

PubMed

Lymperopoulou, Despoina S; Adams, Rachel I; Lindow, Steven E

2016-07-01

Given that epiphytic microbes are often found in large population sizes on plants, we tested the hypothesis that plants are quantitatively important local sources of airborne microorganisms. The abundance of microbial communities, determined by quantifying bacterial 16S RNA genes and the fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, in air collected directly above vegetation was 2- to 10-fold higher than that in air collected simultaneously in an adjacent nonvegetated area 50 m upwind. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling revealed that the composition of airborne bacteria in upwind air samples grouped separately from that of downwind air samples, while communities on plants and downwind air could not be distinguished. In contrast, fungal taxa in air samples were more similar to each other than to the fungal epiphytes. A source-tracking algorithm revealed that up to 50% of airborne bacteria in downwind air samples were presumably of local plant origin. The difference in the proportional abundances of a given operational taxonomic unit (OTU) between downwind and upwind air when regressed against the proportional representation of this OTU on the plant yielded a positive slope for both bacteria and fungi, indicating that those taxa that were most abundant on plants proportionally contributed more to downwind air. Epiphytic fungi were less of a determinant of the microbiological distinctiveness of downwind air and upwind air than epiphytic bacteria. Emigration of epiphytic bacteria and, to a lesser extent, fungi, from plants can thus influence the microbial composition of nearby air, a finding that has important implications for surrounding ecosystems, including the built environment into which outdoor air can penetrate. This paper addresses the poorly understood role of bacterial and fungal epiphytes, the inhabitants of the aboveground plant parts, in the composition of airborne microbes in outdoor air. It is widely held that epiphytes contribute to atmospheric

The use of carbon black-TiO2 composite prepared using solid state method as counter electrode and E. conferta as sensitizer for dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaafar, Hidayani; Ahmad, Zainal Arifin; Ain, Mohd Fadzil

2018-05-01

In this paper, counter electrodes based on carbon black (CB)-TiO2 composite are proposed as a cost-effective alternative to conventional Pt counter electrodes used in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) applications. CB-TiO2 composite counter electrodes with different weight percentages of CB were prepared using the solid state method and coated onto fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass using doctor blade method while Eleiodoxa conferta (E. conferta) and Nb-doped TiO2 were used as sensitizer and photoanode, respectively, with electrolyte containing I-/I-3 redox couple. The experimental results revealed that the CB-TiO2 composite influenced the photovoltaic performance by enhancing the electrocatalytic activity. As the amount of CB increased, the catalytic activity improved due to the increase in surface area which then led to low charge-transfer resistance (RCT) at the electrolyte/CB electrode interface. Due to the use of the modified photoanode together with natural dye sensitizers, the counter electrode based on 15 wt% CB-TiO2 composite was able to produce the highest energy conversion efficiency (2.5%) making it a viable alternative counter electrode.

Electrochemical characterisation of air electrodes based on La 0.6Sr 0.4CoO 3 and carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thiele, Doreen; Züttel, Andreas

The efficiency of fuel cells suffers from the high activation polarisation at the cathode, where the oxygen reduction reaction takes place. In order to improve the performance, air electrodes composed of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and the perovskite La 0.6Sr 0.4CoO 3 are produced by two different methods and investigated. In the first method CNTs are directly grown on the perovskite and in the second method CNTs and perovskite are combined by ultrasonic mixing. Their catalytic activity towards oxygen reduction in alkaline solution is evaluated by polarisation curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Best performance shows the electrode composed of 25 wt% CNTs, 55 wt% La 0.6Sr 0.4CoO 3 and 20 wt% PTFE as binder, produced by ultrasonic mixing. The Nyquist plot of this electrode displays two potential-dependent semi-circles, accounting for processes on the catalyst surface and for processes depending on the morphology of the electrode.

Aqueous processing of composite lithium ion electrode material

DOEpatents

Li, Jianlin; Armstrong, Beth L.; Daniel, Claus; Wood, III, David L.

2017-06-20

A method of making a battery electrode includes the steps of dispersing an active electrode material and a conductive additive in water with at least one dispersant to create a mixed dispersion; treating a surface of a current collector to raise the surface energy of the surface to at least the surface tension of the mixed dispersion; depositing the dispersed active electrode material and conductive additive on a current collector; and heating the coated surface to remove water from the coating.

Aqueous processing of composite lithium ion electrode material

DOEpatents

Li, Jianlin; Armstrong, Beth L; Daniel, Claus; Wood, III, David L

2015-02-17

A method of making a battery electrode includes the steps of dispersing an active electrode material and a conductive additive in water with at least one dispersant to create a mixed dispersion; treating a surface of a current collector to raise the surface energy of the surface to at least the surface tension of the mixed dispersion; depositing the dispersed active electrode material and conductive additive on a current collector; and heating the coated surface to remove water from the coating.

Thermally Stable and Electrically Conductive, Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube/Silicon Infiltrated Composite Structures for High-Temperature Electrodes.

PubMed

Zou, Qi Ming; Deng, Lei Min; Li, Da Wei; Zhou, Yun Shen; Golgir, Hossein Rabiee; Keramatnejad, Kamran; Fan, Li Sha; Jiang, Lan; Silvain, Jean-Francois; Lu, Yong Feng

2017-10-25

Traditional ceramic-based, high-temperature electrode materials (e.g., lanthanum chromate) are severely limited due to their conditional electrical conductivity and poor stability under harsh circumstances. Advanced composite structures based on vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) and high-temperature ceramics are expected to address this grand challenge, in which ceramic serves as a shielding layer protecting the VACNTs from the oxidation and erosive environment, while the VACNTs work as a conductor. However, it is still a great challenge to fabricate VACNT/ceramic composite structures due to the limited diffusion of ceramics inside the VACNT arrays. In this work, we report on the controllable fabrication of infiltrated (and noninfiltrated) VACNT/silicon composite structures via thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) [and laser-assisted CVD]. In laser-assisted CVD, low-crystalline silicon (Si) was quickly deposited at the VACNT subsurfaces/surfaces followed by the formation of high-crystalline Si layers, thus resulting in noninfiltrated composite structures. Unlike laser-assisted CVD, thermal CVD activated the precursors inside and outside the VACNTs simultaneously, which realized uniform infiltrated VACNT/Si composite structures. The growth mechanisms for infiltrated and noninfiltrated VACNT/ceramic composites, which we attributed to the different temperature distributions and gas diffusion mechanism in VACNTs, were investigated. More importantly, the as-farbicated composite structures exhibited excellent multifunctional properties, such as excellent antioxidative ability (up to 1100 °C), high thermal stability (up to 1400 °C), good high velocity hot gas erosion resistance, and good electrical conductivity (∼8.95 Sm -1 at 823 K). The work presented here brings a simple, new approach to the fabrication of advanced composite structures for hot electrode applications.

CAD/CAM-designed 3D-printed electroanalytical cell for the evaluation of nanostructured gas-diffusion electrodes.

PubMed

Chervin, Christopher N; Parker, Joseph F; Nelson, Eric S; Rolison, Debra R; Long, Jeffrey W

2016-04-29

The ability to effectively screen and validate gas-diffusion electrodes is critical to the development of next-generation metal-air batteries and regenerative fuel cells. The limiting electrode in a classic two-terminal device such as a battery or fuel cell is difficult to discern without an internal reference electrode, but the flooded electrolyte characteristic of three-electrode electroanalytical cells negates the prime function of an air electrode-a void volume freely accessible to gases. The nanostructured catalysts that drive the energy-conversion reactions (e.g., oxygen reduction and evolution in the air electrode of metal-air batteries) are best evaluated in the electrode structure as-used in the practical device. We have designed, 3D-printed, and characterized an air-breathing, thermodynamically referenced electroanalytical cell that allows us to mimic the Janus arrangement of the gas-diffusion electrode in a metal-air cell: one face freely exposed to gases, the other wetted by electrolyte.

One-step hydrothermal synthesis of sandwich-type NiCo2S4@reduced graphene oxide composite as active electrode material for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Fangping; Li, Guifang; Zhou, Qianqian; Zheng, Jinfeng; Yang, Caixia; Wang, Qizhao

2017-12-01

A facile one step hydrothermal process is developed for the synthesis of NiCo2S4@reduced graphene oxide (NiCo2S4@RGO) composite as electrode for electrochemical supercapacitors. This NiCo2S4@RGO electrode exhibits an ultrahigh specific capacitance of 2003 F g-1 at 1 A g-1 and 1726 F g-1 at 20 A g-1 (86.0% capacitance retention from 1 A g-1 to 20 A g-1), excellent cycling stabilities (86.0% retention after 3500 cycles). Moreover, an asymmetric supercapacitor is successfully assembled by using NiCo2S4@RGO nanoparticle as the positive electrode and active carbon(AC) as the negative electrode in 2 M KOH electrolyte. The fabricated NiCo2S4@RGO//AC asymmetric supercapacitor exhibits a high energy density of 21.9 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 417.1 W kg-1 and still remains an impressive energy density of 13.5 Wh kg-1 at a large power density of 2700 W kg-1. The results demonstrate that the NiCo2S4@RGO composite is a promising electrode material as supercapacitors in energy storage.

Mechanical and thermal behavior of ionic polymer metal composites: effects of electroded metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Il-Seok; Kim, Sang-Mun; Kim, Kwang J.

2007-08-01

In this study, we investigated the mechanical properties of various types of ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) and Pt, Au, Pd, and Pt electroded ionic liquid (IL-Pt) IPMCs, by testing tensile modulus and dynamic mechanical behavior. The SEM was utilized to investigate the characteristics of the doped electroding layer, and the DSC was probed in order to look into the thermal behavior of various types of IPMCs. Au IPMCs, having a 5-7 µm-doped layer and nanosized Au particles (ca. 10 nm), showed the highest tensile strength (56 MPa) and modulus (602 MPa) in dried conditions. With regards to thermal behavior, Au IPMC had the highest Tg (153 °C) and Tm (263 °C) in both the DMA and DSC results. The fracture behavior of various types of IPMCs followed the behavior of the base material, Nafion™, which is represented as the semicrystalline polymer characteristic.

Recent advancements in the cobalt oxides, manganese oxides and their composite as an electrode material for supercapacitor: a review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uke, Santosh J.; Akhare, Vijay P.; Bambole, Devidas R.; Bodade, Anjali B.; Chaudhari, Gajanan N.

2017-08-01

In this smart edge, there is an intense demand of portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, smart watches etc. That demands the use of such components which has light weight, flexible, cheap and environmental friendly. So that needs an evolution in technology. Supercapacitors are energy storage devices emerging as one of the promising energy storage devices in the future energy technology. Electrode material is the important part of supercapacitor. There is much new advancement in types of electrode materials as for supercapacitor. In this review, we focused on the recent advancements in the cobalt oxides, manganese oxides and their composites as an electrodes material for supercapacitor.

A Graphene Composite Material with Single Cobalt Active Sites: A Highly Efficient Counter Electrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells.

PubMed

Cui, Xiaoju; Xiao, Jianping; Wu, Yihui; Du, Peipei; Si, Rui; Yang, Huaixin; Tian, Huanfang; Li, Jianqi; Zhang, Wen-Hua; Deng, Dehui; Bao, Xinhe

2016-06-01

The design of catalysts that are both highly active and stable is always challenging. Herein, we report that the incorporation of single metal active sites attached to the nitrogen atoms in the basal plane of graphene leads to composite materials with superior activity and stability when used as counter electrodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A series of composite materials based on different metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) were synthesized and characterized. Electrochemical measurements revealed that CoN4 /GN is a highly active and stable counter electrode for the interconversion of the redox couple I(-) /I3 (-) . DFT calculations revealed that the superior properties of CoN4 /GN are due to the appropriate adsorption energy of iodine on the confined Co sites, leading to a good balance between adsorption and desorption processes. Its superior electrochemical performance was further confirmed by fabricating DSSCs with CoN4  /GN electrodes, which displayed a better power conversion efficiency than the Pt counterpart. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Characterization of interdigitated electrode piezoelectric fiber composites under high electrical and mechanical loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodgers, John P.; Bent, Aaron A.; Hagood, Nesbitt W.

1996-05-01

The primary objective of this work is to develop a standard methodology for characterizing structural actuation systems intended for operation in high electrical and mechanical loading environments. The designed set of tests evaluates the performance of the active materials system under realistic operating conditions. The tests are also used to characterize piezoelectric fiber composites which have been developed as an alternative to monolithic piezoceramic wafers for structural actuation applications. The performance of this actuator system has been improved using an interdigitated electrode pattern, which orients the primary component of the electric field into the plane of the structure, enabling the use of the primary piezoelectric effect along the active fibers. One possible application of this technology is in the integral twist actuation of helicopter rotor blades for higher harmonic control. This application requires actuators which can withstand the harsh rotor blade operating environment. This includes large numbers of electrical and mechanical cycles with considerable centripetal and bending loads. The characterization tests include standard active material tests as well as application-driven tests which evaluate the performance of the actuators during simulated operation. Test results for several actuator configurations are provided, including S2 glass- reinforced and E-glass laminated actuators. The study concludes that the interdigitated electrode piezoelectric fiber composite actuator has great potential for high loading applications.

Method for processing aluminum spent potliner in a graphite electrode ARC furnace

DOEpatents

O'Connor, William K.; Turner, Paul C.; Addison, Gerald W.

2002-12-24

A method of processing spent aluminum pot liner containing carbon, cyanide compositions, fluorides and inorganic oxides. The spent aluminum pot liner is crushed iron oxide is added to form an agglomerated material. The agglomerated material is melted in an electric arc furnace having the electrodes submerged in the molten material to provide a reducing environment during the furnace operation. In the reducing environment, pot liner is oxidized while the iron oxides are reduced to produce iron and a slag substantially free of cyanide compositions and fluorides. An off-gas including carbon oxides and fluorine is treated in an air pollution control system with an afterburner and a scrubber to produce NaF, water and a gas vented to the atmosphere free of cyanide compositions, fluorine and CO.

Electrochemical Properties of Poly(Anthraquinonyl Sulfide)/Graphene Sheets Composites as Electrode Materials for Electrochemical Capacitors.

PubMed

Lee, Wonkyun; Suzuki, Shinya; Miyayama, Masaru

2014-07-30

Poly(anthraquinonyl sulfide) (PAQS)/graphene sheets (GSs) composite was synthesized through in situ polymerization to evaluate its performance as an electrode material for electrochemical capacitors. PAQS was successfully synthesized in the presence of GSs with uniform distribution. PAQS/GSs showed a pair of reversible redox peaks at around 0 V ( vs. Ag/AgCl). The specific capacitance of PAQS/GSs was 349 F·g -1 (86 mAh·g -1 ) at a current density of 500 mA·g -1 , and a capacitance of 305 F·g -1 was maintained even at a high current density of 5000 mA·g -1 . The in situ polymerization of PAQS with GSs facilitated their interaction and enabled faster charge transfer and redox reaction, resulting in enhanced electrode properties.

CAD/CAM-designed 3D-printed electroanalytical cell for the evaluation of nanostructured gas-diffusion electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chervin, Christopher N.; Parker, Joseph F.; Nelson, Eric S.; Rolison, Debra R.; Long, Jeffrey W.

2016-04-01

The ability to effectively screen and validate gas-diffusion electrodes is critical to the development of next-generation metal-air batteries and regenerative fuel cells. The limiting electrode in a classic two-terminal device such as a battery or fuel cell is difficult to discern without an internal reference electrode, but the flooded electrolyte characteristic of three-electrode electroanalytical cells negates the prime function of an air electrode—a void volume freely accessible to gases. The nanostructured catalysts that drive the energy-conversion reactions (e.g., oxygen reduction and evolution in the air electrode of metal-air batteries) are best evaluated in the electrode structure as-used in the practical device. We have designed, 3D-printed, and characterized an air-breathing, thermodynamically referenced electroanalytical cell that allows us to mimic the Janus arrangement of the gas-diffusion electrode in a metal-air cell: one face freely exposed to gases, the other wetted by electrolyte.

One-pot preparation of conducting composite containing abundant amino groups on electrode surface for electrochemical detection of von willebrand factor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wen; Ma, Chao; Li, Yi; Liu, Baihui; Tan, Liang

2018-03-01

A one-pot protocol based on cyclic voltammetric scan was employed to prepare new conducting composite that was abundant in amino groups. The scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and infrared spectrum characterization demonstrate that poly(azure A), gold nanoparticles, chitosan and cysteine were immobilized simultaneously on glassy carbon electrode surface. Von Willebrand factor (vWF) antibody (Ab) was subsequently assembled by using glutaraldehyde to construct the Ab/composite-modified electrode. The capture of vWF could inhibit the charge transfer between the ferri-/ferrocyanide probe and the electrode and exert the negative effect on the electrochemical response of the dye polymer in the conducting composite due to the strong steric hindrance effect. The DPV peak current change before and after the immunoreaction was found to be proportional to the logarithm of the vWF concentration from 0.001 to 100 μg mL-1 with a detection limit of 0.4 ng mL-1. The proposed label-free electrochemical method was employed in the investigation on the release of vWF by oxidation-injured vascular endothelial cells. The experimental results exhibit that the vWF content in growth medium was increased when the oxidation injury of the cells was intensified in the presence of H2O2.

Composition and Thermodynamic Properties of Air in Chemical Equilibrium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moeckel, W E; Weston, Kenneth C

1958-01-01

Charts have been prepared relating the thermodynamic properties of air in chemical equilibrium for temperatures to 15,000 degrees k and for pressures 10(-5) to 10 (plus 4) atmospheres. Also included are charts showing the composition of air, the isentropic exponent, and the speed of sound. These charts are based on thermodynamic data calculated by the National Bureau of Standards.

Composite electrodes for advanced electrochemical applications. Quarterly report for the period October 1, - December 31, 1999

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kovach, Chris

The electrochemical industry is one of the most highly energy intensive industries today. However, there have been no significant advances in the electrodes that these industries use. The dimensionally stable anode (DSA), which ELTECH introduced under a license agreement, has been the industry standard for the past twenty-five years. But, DSAs are nearing the end of their technological prevalence. The principal problems with DSAs include high capital and operating costs, and the proprietary nature of the technology. In addition, DSAs experience problems that include: contamination of the process solution by anode materials, failure when the electrocatalytic coating peels from underattack,more » generally low anode performance due to inherent limitations in operating current density, and short anode lifetime because of corrosion. The proposed innovation combines the low electrical resistance of copper with the corrosion resistance of electrically conductive diamond to achieve energy efficient, long-lifetime electrodes for electrochemistry. The proposed work will ultimately develop a composite electrode that consists of a copper substrate, a conductive diamond coating, and a catalytic precious metal coating. The scope of the current work includes preparation, testing, and evaluation of diamond-coated titanium electrodes.« less

Composite electrodes for advanced electrochemical applications. Quarterly report for the period July 1 - September 30, 1999

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kovach, Chris

The electrochemical industry is one of the most highly energy-intensive industries today. However, there have been no significant advances in the electrodes that these industries use. The dimensionally stable anode (DSA), which ELTECH introduced under a license agreement, has been the industry standard for the past twenty-five years. But, DSAs are nearing the end of their technological prevalence. The principal problems with DSAs include high capital and operating cost, and the proprietary nature of the technology. In addition, DSAs experience problems that include contamination of the process solution by anode materials, failure when the electrocatalytic coating peels from under attack,more » generally low anode performance due to inherent limitations in operating current density, and short anode lifetime because of corrosion. The proposed innovation combines the low electrical resistance of copper with the corrosion resistance of electrically conductive diamond to achieve energy-efficient, long-lifetime electrodes for electrochemistry. The proposed work will ultimately develop a composite electrode that consists of a copper substrate, a conductive diamond coating, and a catalytic precious metal coating. The scope of the current work includes preparation, testing, and evaluation of diamond-coated titanium electrodes.« less

Effect of CoFeB electrode compositions on low frequency magnetic noise in tunneling magnetoresistance sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wisniowski, P.; Dabek, M.; Wrona, J.; Cardoso, S.; Freitas, P. P.

2017-12-01

We study the effect of CoFeB electrode compositions on frequency dependent magnetic noise in tunneling magnetoresistance sensors with variable field sensitivity. We use the relationship between the normalized 1/f noise parameter (αt) and the magnetoresistance sensitivity product (MSP) to compare the magnetic noise of sensors with Co40Fe40B20, Co60Fe20B20, and Co20Fe60B20 electrodes. We observed the lowest slope of the αt vs. MSP curve of 9.1 × 10-13 μm3 T and a 1/f noise corner as low as 300 Hz for the sensors with Co60Fe20B20 electrodes. Furthermore, all sensors at a specific value of the magnetoresistance sensitivity product showed a deviation from the linear relationship between αt and MSP. The results show that in the design of high sensitivity CoFeB-MgO-CoFeB based tunneling magnetoresistance sensors for low field detection, selection of CoFeB electrodes is important and can be used to significantly improve the low frequency field detection limit.

Atomic and Molecular Layer Deposition for Enhanced Lithium Ion Battery Electrodes and Development of Conductive Metal Oxide/Carbon Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Travis, Jonathan

The performance and safety of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are dependent on interfacial processes at the positive and negative electrodes. For example, the surface layers that form on cathodes and anodes are known to affect the kinetics and capacity of LIBs. Interfacial reactions between the electrolyte and the electrodes are also known to initiate electrolyte combustion during thermal runaway events that compromise battery safety. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) and molecular layer deposition (MLD) are thin film deposition techniques based on sequential, self-limiting surface reactions. ALD and MLD can deposit ultrathin and conformal films on high aspect ratio and porous substrates such as composite particulate electrodes in lithium-ion batteries. The effects of electrode surface modification via ALD and MLD are studied using a variety of techniques. It was found that sub-nm thick coatings of Al2O 3 deposited via ALD have beneficial effects on the stability of LIB anodes and cathodes. These same Al2O3 ALD films were found to improve the safety of graphite based anodes through prevention of exothermic solid electrolyte interface (SEI) degradation at elevated temperatures. Ultrathin and conformal metal alkoxide polymer films known as "metalcones" were grown utilizing MLD techniques with trimethylaluminum (TMA) or titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and organic diols or triols, such as ethylene glycol (EG), glycerol (GL) or hydroquinone (HQ), as the reactants. Pyrolysis of these metalcone films under inert gas conditions led to the development of conductive metal oxide/carbon composites. The composites were found to contain sp2 carbon using micro-Raman spectroscopy in the pyrolyzed films with pyrolysis temperatures ≥ 600°C. Four point probe measurements demonstrated that the graphitic sp2 carbon domains in the metalcone films grown using GL and HQ led to significant conductivity. The pyrolysis of conformal MLD films to obtain conductive metal oxide/carbon composite films

Carbon fiber composite molecular sieve electrically regenerable air filter media

DOEpatents

Wilson, K.A.; Burchell, T.D.; Judkins, R.R.

1998-10-27

An electrically regenerable gas filter system includes a carbon fiber composite molecular sieve (CFCMS) filter medium. After a separate medium-efficiency pre-filter removes particulate from the supply air stream, the CFCMS filter sorbs gaseous air pollutants before the air is recirculated to the space. When saturated, the CFCMS media is regenerated utilizing a low-voltage current that is caused to pass through the filter medium. 3 figs.

C-IOP/NiO/Ni7S6 composite with the inverse opal lattice as an electrode for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sukhinina, Nadezhda S.; Masalov, Vladimir M.; Zhokhov, Andrey A.; Zverkova, Irina I.; Emelchenko, Gennadi A.

2015-06-01

In this work, we demonstrate the results of studies on the synthesis, the structure and properties of carbon inverted opal (C-IOP) nanostructures, the surface of which is modified by oxide and sulfide of nickel. It is shown that the modification of the matrix C-IOP by nickel compounds led to a decreasing the specific surface area more than three times and was 250 m2/g. The specific capacitance of the capacitor with the C-IOP/NiO/Ni7S6 composite as electrode has increased more than 4 times, from 130 F/g to 600 F/g, as compared with the sample C-IOP without the modification by nickel compounds. The significant contribution of the faradaic reactions in specific capacitance of the capacitor electrodes of the composites is marked.

The design of and chronic tissue response to a composite nerve electrode with patterned stiffness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freeberg, M. J.; Stone, M. A.; Triolo, R. J.; Tyler, D. J.

2017-06-01

Objective. As neural interfaces demonstrate success in chronic applications, a novel class of reshaping electrodes with patterned regions of stiffness will enable application to a widening range of anatomical locations. Patterning stiff regions and flexible regions of the electrode enables nerve reshaping while accommodating anatomical constraints of various implant locations ranging from peripheral nerves to spinal and autonomic plexi. Approach. Introduced is a new composite electrode enabling patterning of regions of various electrode mechanical properties. The initial demonstration of the composite’s capability is the composite flat interface nerve electrode (C-FINE). The C-FINE is constructed from a sandwich of patterned PEEK within layers of pliable silicone. The shape of the PEEK provides a desired pattern of stiffness: stiff across the width of the nerve to reshape the nerve, but flexible along its length to allow for bending with the nerve. This is particularly important in anatomical locations near joints or organs, and in constrained compartments. We tested pressure and volume design constraints in vitro to verify that the C-FINE can attain a safe cuff-to-nerve ratio (CNR) without impeding intraneural blood flow. We measured nerve function as well as nerve and axonal morphology following 3 month implantation of the C-FINE without wires on feline peripheral nerves in anatomically constrained areas near mobile joints and major blood vessels in both the hind and fore limbs. Main Results. In vitro inflation tests showed effective CNRs (1.93  ±  0.06) that exceeded the industry safety standard of 1.5 at an internal pressure of 20 mmHg. This is less than the 30 mmHg shown to induce loss of conduction or compromise blood flow. Implanted cats showed no changes in physiology or electrophysiology. Behavioral signs were normal suggesting healthy nerves. Motor nerve conduction velocity and compound motor action potential did not change significantly

High-energy metal air batteries

DOEpatents

Zhang, Ji-Guang; Xiao, Jie; Xu, Wu; Wang, Deyu; Williford, Ralph E.; Liu, Jun

2014-07-01

Disclosed herein are embodiments of lithium/air batteries and methods of making and using the same. Certain embodiments are pouch-cell batteries encased within an oxygen-permeable membrane packaging material that is less than 2% of the total battery weight. Some embodiments include a hybrid air electrode comprising carbon and an ion insertion material, wherein the mass ratio of ion insertion material to carbon is 0.2 to 0.8. The air electrode may include hydrophobic, porous fibers. In particular embodiments, the air electrode is soaked with an electrolyte comprising one or more solvents including dimethyl ether, and the dimethyl ether subsequently is evacuated from the soaked electrode. In other embodiments, the electrolyte comprises 10-20% crown ether by weight.

High-energy metal air batteries

DOEpatents

Zhang, Ji-Guang; Xiao, Jie; Xu, Wu; Wang, Deyu; Williford, Ralph E.; Liu, Jun

2013-07-09

Disclosed herein are embodiments of lithium/air batteries and methods of making and using the same. Certain embodiments are pouch-cell batteries encased within an oxygen-permeable membrane packaging material that is less than 2% of the total battery weight. Some embodiments include a hybrid air electrode comprising carbon and an ion insertion material, wherein the mass ratio of ion insertion material to carbon is 0.2 to 0.8. The air electrode may include hydrophobic, porous fibers. In particular embodiments, the air electrode is soaked with an electrolyte comprising one or more solvents including dimethyl ether, and the dimethyl ether subsequently is evacuated from the soaked electrode. In other embodiments, the electrolyte comprises 10-20% crown ether by weight.

Electrochemical investigation of mixed metal oxide nanocomposite electrode for low temperature solid oxide fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbas, Ghazanfar; Raza, Rizwan; Ashfaq Ahmad, M.; Ajmal Khan, M.; Jafar Hussain, M.; Ahmad, Mukhtar; Aziz, Hammad; Ahmad, Imran; Batool, Rida; Altaf, Faizah; Zhu, Bin

2017-10-01

Zinc-based nanostructured nickel (Ni) free metal oxide electrode material Zn0.60/Cu0.20Mn0.20 oxide (CMZO) was synthesized by solid state reaction and investigated for low temperature solid oxide fuel cell (LTSOFC) applications. The crystal structure and surface morphology of the synthesized electrode material were examined by XRD and SEM techniques respectively. The particle size of ZnO phase estimated by Scherer’s equation was 31.50 nm. The maximum electrical conductivity was found to be 12.567 S/cm and 5.846 S/cm in hydrogen and air atmosphere, respectively at 600∘C. The activation energy of the CMZO material was also calculated from the DC conductivity data using Arrhenius plots and it was found to be 0.060 and 0.075 eV in hydrogen and air atmosphere, respectively. The CMZO electrode-based fuel cell was tested using carbonated samarium doped ceria composite (NSDC) electrolyte. The three layers 13 mm in diameter and 1 mm thickness of the symmetric fuel cell were fabricated by dry pressing. The maximum power density of 728.86 mW/cm2 was measured at 550∘C.

Extrusion of electrode material by liquid injection into extruder barrel

DOEpatents

Keller, D.G.; Giovannoni, R.T.; MacFadden, K.O.

1998-03-10

An electrode sheet product is formed using an extruder having a feed throat and a downstream section by separately mixing an active electrode material and a solid polymer electrolyte composition that contains lithium salt. The active electrode material is fed into the feed throat of the extruder, while a portion of at least one fluid component of the solid polymer electrolyte composition is introduced to the downstream section. The active electrode material and the solid polymer electrolyte composition are compounded in a downstream end of the extruder. The extruded sheets, adhered to current collectors, can be formed into battery cells. 1 fig.

Extrusion of electrode material by liquid injection into extruder barrel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Keller, David Gerard; Giovannoni, Richard Thomas; MacFadden, Kenneth Orville

An electrode sheet product is formed using an extruder having a feed throat and a downstream section by separately mixing an active electrode material and a solid polymer electrolyte composition that contains lithium salt. The active electrode material is fed into the feed throat of the extruder, while a portion of at least one fluid component of the solid polymer electrolyte composition is introduced to the downstream section. The active electrode material and the solid polymer electrolyte composition are compounded in a downstream end of the extruder. The extruded sheets, adhered to current collectors, can be formed into battery cells.

Multi-layer electrode with nano-Li4Ti5O12 aggregates sandwiched between carbon nanotube and graphene networks for high power Li-ion batteries.

PubMed

Choi, Jin-Hoon; Ryu, Won-Hee; Park, Kyusung; Jo, Jeong-Dai; Jo, Sung-Moo; Lim, Dae-Soon; Kim, Il-Doo

2014-12-05

Self-aggregated Li4Ti5O12 particles sandwiched between graphene nanosheets (GNSs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) network are reported as new hybrid electrodes for high power Li-ion batteries. The multi-layer electrodes are fabricated by sequential process comprising air-spray coating of GNSs layer and the following electrostatic spray (E-spray) coating of well-dispersed colloidal Li4Ti5O12 nanoparticles, and subsequent air-spray coating of SWCNTs layer once again. In multi-stacked electrodes of GNSs/nanoporous Li4Ti5O12 aggregates/SWCNTs networks, GNSs and SWCNTs serve as conducting bridges, effectively interweaving the nanoporous Li4Ti5O12 aggregates, and help achieve superior rate capability as well as improved mechanical stability of the composite electrode by holding Li4Ti5O12 tightly without a binder. The multi-stacked electrodes deliver a specific capacity that maintains an impressively high capacity of 100 mA h g(-1) at a high rate of 100C even after 1000 cycles.

Ferromagnetic, folded electrode composite as a soft interface to the skin for long-term electrophysiological recording.

PubMed

Jang, Kyung-In; Jung, Han Na; Lee, Jung Woo; Xu, Sheng; Liu, Yu Hao; Ma, Yinji; Jeong, Jae-Woong; Song, Young Min; Kim, Jeonghyun; Kim, Bong Hun; Banks, Anthony; Kwak, Jean Won; Yang, Yiyuan; Shi, Dawei; Wei, Zijun; Feng, Xue; Paik, Ungyu; Huang, Yonggang; Ghaffari, Roozbeh; Rogers, John A

2016-10-25

This paper introduces a class of ferromagnetic, folded, soft composite material for skin-interfaced electrodes with releasable interfaces to stretchable, wireless electronic measurement systems. These electrodes establish intimate, adhesive contacts to the skin, in dimensionally stable formats compatible with multiple days of continuous operation, with several key advantages over conventional hydrogel based alternatives. The reported studies focus on aspects ranging from ferromagnetic and mechanical behavior of the materials systems, to electrical properties associated with their skin interface, to system-level integration for advanced electrophysiological monitoring applications. The work combines experimental measurement and theoretical modeling to establish the key design considerations. These concepts have potential uses across a diverse set of skin-integrated electronic technologies.

Study on dielectric and piezoelectric properties of 0.7 Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.3 PbTiO3 single crystal with nano-patterned composite electrode

PubMed Central

Chang, Wei-Yi; Huang, Wenbin; Bagal, Abhijeet; Chang, Chih-Hao; Tian, Jian; Han, Pengdi; Jiang, Xiaoning

2013-01-01

Effect of nano-patterned composite electrode and backswitching poling technique on dielectric and piezoelectric properties of 0.7 Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.3 PbTiO3 was studied in this paper. Composite electrode consists of Mn nano-patterns with pitch size of 200 nm, and a blanket layer of Ti/Au was fabricated using a nanolithography based lift-off process, heat treatment, and metal film sputtering. Composite electrode and backswitching poling resulted in 27% increase of d33 and 25% increase of dielectric constant, and we believe that this is attributed to regularly defined nano-domains and irreversible rhombohedral to monoclinic phase transition in crystal. The results indicate that nano-patterned composite electrode and backswitching poling has a great potential in domain engineering of relaxor single crystals for advanced devices. PMID:24170960

Electrode structures and surfaces for Li batteries

DOEpatents

Thackeray, Michael M.; Kang, Sun-Ho; Balasubramanian, Mahalingam; Croy, Jason

2017-03-14

This invention relates to methods of preparing positive electrode materials for electrochemical cells and batteries. It relates, in particular, to a method for fabricating lithium-metal-oxide electrode materials for lithium cells and batteries. The method comprises contacting a hydrogen-lithium-manganese-oxide material with one or more metal ions, preferably in an acidic solution, to insert the one or more metal ions into the hydrogen-lithium-manganese-oxide material; heat-treating the resulting product to form a powdered metal oxide composition; and forming an electrode from the powdered metal oxide composition.

Carbon nanotube/metal-sulfide composite flexible electrodes for high-performance quantum dot-sensitized solar cells and supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muralee Gopi, Chandu V. V.; Ravi, Seenu; Rao, S. Srinivasa; Eswar Reddy, Araveeti; Kim, Hee-Je

2017-04-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) and metal sulfides have attracted considerable attention owing to their outstanding properties and multiple application areas, such as electrochemical energy conversion and energy storage. Here we describes a cost-effective and facile solution approach to the preparation of metal sulfides (PbS, CuS, CoS, and NiS) grown directly on CNTs, such as CNT/PbS, CNT/CuS, CNT/CoS, and CNT/NiS flexible electrodes for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) and supercapacitors (SCs). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the CNT network was covered with high-purity metal sulfide compounds. QDSSCs equipped with the CNT/NiS counter electrode (CE) showed an impressive energy conversion efficiency (η) of 6.41% and remarkable stability. Interestingly, the assembled symmetric CNT/NiS-based polysulfide SC device exhibited a maximal energy density of 35.39 W h kg-1 and superior cycling durability with 98.39% retention after 1,000 cycles compared to the other CNT/metal-sulfides. The elevated performance of the composites was attributed mainly to the good conductivity, high surface area with mesoporous structures and stability of the CNTs and the high electrocatalytic activity of the metal sulfides. Overall, the designed composite CNT/metal-sulfide electrodes offer an important guideline for the development of next level energy conversion and energy storage devices.

Carbon nanotube/metal-sulfide composite flexible electrodes for high-performance quantum dot-sensitized solar cells and supercapacitors.

PubMed

Muralee Gopi, Chandu V V; Ravi, Seenu; Rao, S Srinivasa; Eswar Reddy, Araveeti; Kim, Hee-Je

2017-04-19

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) and metal sulfides have attracted considerable attention owing to their outstanding properties and multiple application areas, such as electrochemical energy conversion and energy storage. Here we describes a cost-effective and facile solution approach to the preparation of metal sulfides (PbS, CuS, CoS, and NiS) grown directly on CNTs, such as CNT/PbS, CNT/CuS, CNT/CoS, and CNT/NiS flexible electrodes for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) and supercapacitors (SCs). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the CNT network was covered with high-purity metal sulfide compounds. QDSSCs equipped with the CNT/NiS counter electrode (CE) showed an impressive energy conversion efficiency (η) of 6.41% and remarkable stability. Interestingly, the assembled symmetric CNT/NiS-based polysulfide SC device exhibited a maximal energy density of 35.39 W h kg -1 and superior cycling durability with 98.39% retention after 1,000 cycles compared to the other CNT/metal-sulfides. The elevated performance of the composites was attributed mainly to the good conductivity, high surface area with mesoporous structures and stability of the CNTs and the high electrocatalytic activity of the metal sulfides. Overall, the designed composite CNT/metal-sulfide electrodes offer an important guideline for the development of next level energy conversion and energy storage devices.

One-step facile hydrothermal synthesis of Fe2O3@LiCoO2 composite as excellent supercapacitor electrode materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gopi, Chandu V. V. Muralee; Somasekha, A.; Reddy, Araveeti Eswar; Kim, Soo-Kyoung; Kim, Hee-Je

2018-03-01

Herein, for the first time, we demonstrate the fabrication of Fe2O3@LiCoO2 hybrid nanostructures on Ni foam substrate by facile one-step hydrothermal technique. Morphological studies reveal that aggregated Fe2O3 nanoflakes anchored on the surface of sphere-like LiCoO2 nanoflakes. Electrochemical studies are used to examine the performance of the supercapacitor electrodes. The composite Fe2O3@LiCoO2 electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical performance than Fe2O3 and LiCoO2 electrodes, such as a low charge transfer resistance, a high specific capacitance of 489 F g-1 at 5 mA cm-2 and an enhanced capacity retention of 108% over 3000 cycles at 15 mA cm-2. The composite Fe2O3@LiCoO2 holds great promise for electrochemical applications due to well-defined hierarchical morphology, synergetic effect of Fe2O3 and LiCoO2, enhanced electrical conductivity, efficient electrolyte penetration and fast electron transfer.

A New Composite Electrode Applied for Studying the Electrochemistry of Insoluble Particles: α-HgS.

PubMed

Yang, Minjun; Compton, Richard G

2018-05-22

The redox chemistry of solid α-HgS particles is revealed using a carbon/PVDF composite containing α-HgS, carbon black, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). The electrochemical behaviour of the carbon/PVDF composite is first characterised with three water insoluble organic solids. Then the reduction of solid α-HgS particles is investigated and found to occur at a high negative potential, -1.82 V versus saturated mercury sulphate reference electrode, to form metallic mercury and sulphide ions. The subsequent oxidation of metallic mercury and sulphide occurs at +0.24 and -0.49 V versus MSE respectively. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Optimal Electrode Selection for Electrical Resistance Tomography in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites.

PubMed

Escalona Galvis, Luis Waldo; Diaz-Montiel, Paulina; Venkataraman, Satchi

2017-02-04

Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) offers a non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technique that takes advantage of the inherent electrical properties in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites for internal damage characterization. This paper investigates a method of optimum selection of sensing configurations for delamination detection in thick cross-ply laminates using ERT. Reduction in the number of sensing locations and measurements is necessary to minimize hardware and computational effort. The present work explores the use of an effective independence (EI) measure originally proposed for sensor location optimization in experimental vibration modal analysis. The EI measure is used for selecting the minimum set of resistance measurements among all possible combinations resulting from selecting sensing electrode pairs. Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) is applied to obtain a spectral representation of the resistance measurements in the laminate for subsequent EI based reduction to take place. The electrical potential field in a CFRP laminate is calculated using finite element analysis (FEA) applied on models for two different laminate layouts considering a set of specified delamination sizes and locations with two different sensing arrangements. The effectiveness of the EI measure in eliminating redundant electrode pairs is demonstrated by performing inverse identification of damage using the full set and the reduced set of resistance measurements. This investigation shows that the EI measure is effective for optimally selecting the electrode pairs needed for resistance measurements in ERT based damage detection.

Electrochemical Properties of Poly(Anthraquinonyl Sulfide)/Graphene Sheets Composites as Electrode Materials for Electrochemical Capacitors

PubMed Central

Lee, Wonkyun; Suzuki, Shinya; Miyayama, Masaru

2014-01-01

Poly(anthraquinonyl sulfide) (PAQS)/graphene sheets (GSs) composite was synthesized through in situ polymerization to evaluate its performance as an electrode material for electrochemical capacitors. PAQS was successfully synthesized in the presence of GSs with uniform distribution. PAQS/GSs showed a pair of reversible redox peaks at around 0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). The specific capacitance of PAQS/GSs was 349 F·g−1 (86 mAh·g−1) at a current density of 500 mA·g−1, and a capacitance of 305 F·g−1 was maintained even at a high current density of 5000 mA·g−1. The in situ polymerization of PAQS with GSs facilitated their interaction and enabled faster charge transfer and redox reaction, resulting in enhanced electrode properties. PMID:28344238

Highly transparent and efficient counter electrode using SiO2/PEDOT-PSS composite for bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Song, Dandan; Li, Meicheng; Li, Yingfeng; Zhao, Xing; Jiang, Bing; Jiang, Yongjian

2014-05-28

A highly transparent and efficient counter electrode was facilely fabricated using SiO2/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT-PSS) inorganic/organic composite and used in bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). The optical properties of SiO2/PEDOT-PSS electrode can be tailored by the blending amount of SiO2 and film thickness, and the incorporation of SiO2 in PEDOT-PSS provides better transmission in the long wavelength range. Meanwhile, the SiO2/PEDOT-PSS counter electrode shows a better electrochemical catalytic activity than PEDOT-PSS electrode for triiodide reduction, and the role of SiO2 in the catalytic process is investigated. The bifacial DSC with SiO2/PEDOT-PSS counter electrode achieves a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.61% under rear-side irradiation, which is about 83% of that obtained under front-side irradiation. Furthermore, the PCE of bifacial DSC can be significantly increased by adding a reflector to achieve bifacial irradiation, which is 39% higher than that under conventional front-side irradiation.

High performance methanol-oxygen fuel cell with hollow fiber electrode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawson, Daniel D. (Inventor); Ingham, John D. (Inventor)

1983-01-01

A methanol/air-oxygen fuel cell including an electrode formed by open-ended ion-exchange hollow fibers having a layer of catalyst deposited on the inner surface thereof and a first current collector in contact with the catalyst layer. A second current collector external of said fibers is provided which is immersed along with the hollow fiber electrode in an aqueous electrolyte body. Upon passage of air or oxygen through the hollow fiber electrode and introduction of methanol into the aqueous electrolyte, a steady current output is obtained. Two embodiments of the fuel cell are disclosed. In the first embodiment the second metal electrode is displaced away from the hollow fiber in the electrolyte body while in the second embodiment a spiral-wrap electrode is provided about the outer surface of the hollow fiber electrode.

Optimized spherical manganese oxide-ferroferric oxide-tin oxide ternary composites as advanced electrode materials for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Zhu, Jian; Tang, Shaochun; Vongehr, Sascha; Xie, Hao; Meng, Xiangkang

2015-09-18

Inexpensive MnO2 is a promising material for supercapacitors (SCs), but its application is limited by poor electrical conductivity and low specific surface area. We design and fabricate hierarchical MnO2-based ternary composite nanostructures showing superior electrochemical performance via doping with electrochemically active Fe3O4 in the interior and electrically conductive SnO2 nanoparticles in the surface layer. Optimization composition results in a MnO2-Fe3O4-SnO2 composite electrode material with 5.9 wt.% Fe3O4 and 5.3 wt.% SnO2, leading to a high specific areal capacitance of 1.12 F cm(-2) at a scan rate of 5 mV s(-1). This is two to three times the values for MnO2-based binary nanostructures at the same scan rate. The low amount of SnO2 almost doubles the capacitance of porous MnO2-Fe3O4 (before SnO2 addition), which is attributed to an improved conductivity and remaining porosity. In addition, the optimal ternary composite has a good rate capability and an excellent cycling performance with stable capacitance retention of ~90% after 5000 charge/discharge cycles at 7.5 mA cm(-2). All-solid-state SCs are assembled with such electrodes using polyvinyl alcohol/Na2SO4 electrolyte. An integrated device made by connecting two identical SCs in series can power a light-emitting diode indicator for more than 10 min.

Optimized spherical manganese oxide-ferroferric oxide-tin oxide ternary composites as advanced electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jian; Tang, Shaochun; Vongehr, Sascha; Xie, Hao; Meng, Xiangkang

2015-09-01

Inexpensive MnO2 is a promising material for supercapacitors (SCs), but its application is limited by poor electrical conductivity and low specific surface area. We design and fabricate hierarchical MnO2-based ternary composite nanostructures showing superior electrochemical performance via doping with electrochemically active Fe3O4 in the interior and electrically conductive SnO2 nanoparticles in the surface layer. Optimization composition results in a MnO2-Fe3O4-SnO2 composite electrode material with 5.9 wt.% Fe3O4 and 5.3 wt.% SnO2, leading to a high specific areal capacitance of 1.12 F cm-2 at a scan rate of 5 mV s-1. This is two to three times the values for MnO2-based binary nanostructures at the same scan rate. The low amount of SnO2 almost doubles the capacitance of porous MnO2-Fe3O4 (before SnO2 addition), which is attributed to an improved conductivity and remaining porosity. In addition, the optimal ternary composite has a good rate capability and an excellent cycling performance with stable capacitance retention of ˜90% after 5000 charge/discharge cycles at 7.5 mA cm-2. All-solid-state SCs are assembled with such electrodes using polyvinyl alcohol/Na2SO4 electrolyte. An integrated device made by connecting two identical SCs in series can power a light-emitting diode indicator for more than 10 min.

AIR RADIOACTIVITY MONITOR

DOEpatents

Bradshaw, R.L.; Thomas, J.W.

1961-04-11

The monitor is designed to minimize undesirable background buildup. It consists of an elongated column containing peripheral electrodes in a central portion of the column, and conduits directing an axial flow of radioactively contaminated air through the center of the column and pure air through the annular portion of the column about the electrodes. (AEC)

Extrusion of electrode material by liquid injection into extruder barrel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Keller, D.G.; Giovannoni, R.T.; MacFadden, K.O.

An electrode sheet product is formed using an extruder having a feed throat and a downstream section by separately mixing an active electrode material and a solid polymer electrolyte composition that contains lithium salt. The active electrode material is fed into the feed throat of the extruder, while a portion of at least one fluid component of the solid polymer electrolyte composition is introduced to the downstream section. The active electrode material and the solid polymer electrolyte composition are compounded in a downstream end of the extruder. The extruded sheets, adhered to current collectors, can be formed into battery cells.more » 1 fig.« less

Synthesis and characterization of cellulose and hydroxyapatite-carbon electrode composite for trace plumbum ions detection and its validation in blood serum.

PubMed

Ajab, Huma; Dennis, John Ojur; Abdullah, Mohd Azmuddin

2018-07-01

A novel synthesis and characterization of cellulose, hydroxyapatite and chemically-modified carbon electrode (Cellulose-HAp-CME) composite was reported for the analysis of trace Pb(II) ions detection and its validation in blood serum. The Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) analyses showed that the composite retained the orderly porous structure but with scattered particle size agglomeration. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra suggested the presence of functional groups associated with the bending and stretching of carbon bonds and intermolecular H-bonding. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses further elucidated that the crystallite size could have influenced the properties of the electrode. Based on Thermo-gravimetric Analysis (TGA/DTG), the composites showed thermal stability with more than 60% residual content at 700°C. The sensor was successfully developed for trace Pb(II) ions detection in complex medium such as blood serum, in the physiologically relevant range of 10-60ppb, with resulting Limit of Detection (LOD) of 0.11±0.36ppb and Limit of Quantification (LOQ) of 0.36±0.36ppb. The newly fabricated electrode could be advantageous as a sensing platform with favourable electrochemical characteristics for robust, in situ and rapid environmental and clinical analyses of heavy metal ions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sensitive voltammetric determination of chloramphenicol by using single-wall carbon nanotube-gold nanoparticle-ionic liquid composite film modified glassy carbon electrodes.

PubMed

Xiao, Fei; Zhao, Faqiong; Li, Jiangwen; Yan, Rui; Yu, Jingjing; Zeng, Baizhao

2007-07-16

A novel composite film modified glassy carbon electrode has been fabricated and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and voltammetry. The composite film comprises of single-wall carbon nanotube (SWNT), gold nanoparticle (GNP) and ionic liquid (i.e. 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate), thus has the characteristics of them. The resulting electrode shows good stability, high accumulation efficiency and strong promotion to electron transfer. On it, chloramphenicol can produce a sensitive cathodic peak at -0.66 V (versus SCE) in pH 7.0 phosphate buffer solutions. Parameters influencing the voltammetric response of chloramphenicol are optimized, which include the composition of the film and the operation conditions. Under the optimized conditions, the peak current is linear to chloramphenicol concentration in the range of 1.0x10(-8)-6.0x10(-6) M, and the detection limit is estimated to be 5.0x10(-9) M after an accumulation for 150 s on open circuit. The electrode is applied to the determination of chloramphenicol in milk samples, and the recoveries for the standards added are 97.0% and 100.3%. In addition, the electrochemical reaction of chloramphenicol and the effect of single-wall carbon nanotube, gold nanoparticle and ionic liquid are discussed.

Hydrothermal synthesis of nanostructured graphene/polyaniline composites as high-capacitance electrode materials for supercapacitors

PubMed Central

Wang, Ronghua; Han, Meng; Zhao, Qiannan; Ren, Zonglin; Guo, Xiaolong; Xu, Chaohe; Hu, Ning; Lu, Li

2017-01-01

As known to all, hydrothermal synthesis is a powerful technique for preparing inorganic and organic materials or composites with different architectures. In this reports, by controlling hydrothermal conditions, nanostructured polyaniline (PANi) in different morphologies were composited with graphene sheets (GNS) and used as electrode materials of supercapacitors. Specifically, ultrathin PANi layers with total thickness of 10–20 nm are uniformly composited with GNS by a two-step hydrothermal-assistant chemical oxidation polymerization process; while PANi nanofibers with diameter of 50~100 nm are obtained by a one-step direct hydrothermal process. Benefitting from the ultrathin layer and porous structure, the sheet-like GNS/PANi composites can deliver specific capacitances of 532.3 to 304.9 F/g at scan rates of 2 to 50 mV/s. And also, this active material showed very good stability with capacitance retention as high as ~99.6% at scan rate of 50 mV/s, indicating a great potential for using in supercapacitors. Furthermore, the effects of hydrothermal temperatures on the electrochemical performances were systematically studied and discussed. PMID:28291246

Performance of glucose/O2 enzymatic fuel cell based on supporting electrodes over-coated by polymer-nanogold particle composite with entrapped enzymes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huo, W. S.; Zeng, H.; Yang, Y.; Zhang, Y. H.

2017-03-01

Enzymatic electrodes over-coated by thin film of nano-composite made up of polymer and functionalized nano-gold particle was prepared. Glucose/O2 membrane-free enzymatic fuel cell based on nano-composite based electrodes with incorporated glucose oxidase and laccase was assembled. This enzymatic fuel cell exhibited high energy out-put density even when applied in human serum. Catalytic cycle involved in enzymatic fuel cell was limited by oxidation of glucose occurred on bioanode resulting from impact of sophisticated interaction between active site in glucose oxidase and nano-gold particle on configuration of redox center of enzyme molecule which crippled catalytic efficiency of redox protein.

Chemical Imaging of Nanoscale Interfacial Inhomogeneity in LiFePO4 Composite Electrodes from a Cycled Large-Format Battery.

PubMed

Zhou, Jigang; Wang, Jian; Hu, Yongfeng; Lu, Mi

2017-11-15

The nanoscale interfacial inhomogeneity in a cycled large-format LiFePO 4 (LFP) composite electrode has been studied by X-ray photoemission electron microscopy at single particle spatial resolution with a probe depth of ∼5 nm. The loss of active lithium in cycled LFP causes the coexsitence of fully delithiated LFP (FePO 4 ) and partially delithiated LFP (Li 0.6 FePO 4 or Li 0.8 FePO 4 ) as a function of the extent of lithium loss. The distribution of various lithium loss phases along with local agglomeration of LFP and degradation of binder and carbon black are correlatively visualized. This is the first experimental exploration of chemical interplay between components in the composite electrode from a large-format battery, and implications on the LFP degradation in this battery are discussed.

Nitrogen-doped carbonaceous catalysts for gas-diffusion cathodes for alkaline aluminum-air batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davydova, E. S.; Atamanyuk, I. N.; Ilyukhin, A. S.; Shkolnikov, E. I.; Zhuk, A. Z.

2016-02-01

Cobalt tetramethoxyphenyl porphyrin and polyacrylonitrile - based catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction were synthesized and characterized by means of SEM, TEM, XPS, BET, limited evaporation method, rotating disc and rotating ring-disc electrode methods. Half-cell and Al-air cell tests were carried out to determine the characteristics of gas-diffusion cathodes. Effect of active layer thickness and its composition on the characteristics of the gas-diffusion cathodes was investigated. Power density of 300 mW cm-2 was achieved for alkaline Al-air cell with an air-breathing polyacrylonitrile-based cathode.

Charge transport kinetics in a robust radical-substituted polymer/nanocarbon composite electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, Kan; Oyaizu, Kenichi; Nishide, Hiroyuki

We have reported a series of organic radical-substituted polymers as new-type charge storage and transport materials which could be used for energy related devices such as batteries and solar cells. Redox-active radical moieties introduced to the non-conjugated polymer backbones enable the rapid electron transfer among the adjacent radical sites, and thus large diffusive flux of electrical charge at a bulk scale. Here we present the elucidated charge transport kinetics in a radical polymer/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) composite electrode. The synergetic effect of electrical conduction by a three-dimensional SWNT network and electron self-exchange reaction by radical polymers contributed to the 105-fold (per 1 g of added SWNT) boosting of electrochemical reactions and exceptionally large current density (greater than 1 A/cm2) as a rechargeable electrode. A totally organic-based secondary battery with a submicron thickness was fabricated to demonstrate the splendid electrochemical performances. Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (No. 24225003, 15J00888) and the Leading Graduate Program in Science and Engineering, from the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).

Vanadium Pentoxide Nanobelt-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheet Composites as High-Performance Pseudocapacitive Electrodes: ac Impedance Spectroscopy Data Modeling and Theoretical Calculations

PubMed Central

Gupta, Sanju; Aberg, Bryce; Carrizosa, Sara B.; Dimakis, Nicholas

2016-01-01

Graphene nanosheets and graphene nanoribbons, G combined with vanadium pentoxide (VO) nanobelts (VNBs) and VNBs forming GVNB composites with varying compositions were synthesized via a one-step low temperature facile hydrothermal decomposition method as high-performance electrochemical pseudocapacitive electrodes. VNBs from vanadium pentoxides (VO) are formed in the presence of graphene oxide (GO), a mild oxidant, which transforms into reduced GO (rGOHT), assisting in enhancing the electronic conductivity coupled with the mechanical robustness of VNBs. From electron microscopy, surface sensitive spectroscopy and other complementary structural characterization, hydrothermally-produced rGO nanosheets/nanoribbons are decorated with and inserted within the VNBs’ layered crystal structure, which further confirmed the enhanced electronic conductivity of VNBs. Following the electrochemical properties of GVNBs being investigated, the specific capacitance Csp is determined from cyclic voltammetry (CV) with a varying scan rate and galvanostatic charging-discharging (V–t) profiles with varying current density. The rGO-rich composite V1G3 (i.e., VO/GO = 1:3) showed superior specific capacitance followed by VO-rich composite V3G1 (VO/GO = 3:1), as compared to V1G1 (VO/GO = 1:1) composite, besides the constituents, i.e., rGO, rGOHT and VNBs. Composites V1G3 and V3G1 also showed excellent cyclic stability and a capacitance retention of >80% after 500 cycles at the highest specific current density. Furthermore, by performing extensive simulations and modeling of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data, we determined various circuit parameters, including charge transfer and solution resistance, double layer and low frequency capacitance, Warburg impedance and the constant phase element. The detailed analyses provided greater insights into physical-chemical processes occurring at the electrode-electrolyte interface and highlighted the comparative performance of thin

Preparation and characterization of RuO2/polypyrrole electrodes for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang; Wu, Yujiao; Zheng, Feng; Ling, Min; Lu, Fanghai

2014-11-01

Polypyrrole (PPy) embedded RuO2 electrodes were prepared by the composite method. Precursor solution of RuO2 was coated on tantalum sheet and annealed at 260 °C for 2.5 h to develop a thin film. PPy particles were deposited on RuO2 films and dried at 80 °C for 12 h to form composite electrode. Microstructure and morphology of RuO2/PPy electrode were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Our results confirmed that counter ions are incorporated into RuO2 matrix. Structure of the composite with amorphous phase was verified by X-ray diffraction. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy reveals that during grain growth of RuO2/PPy, PPy particle size sharply increases as deposition time is over 20 min. Electrochemical properties of RuO2/PPy electrode were calculated using cyclic voltammetry. As deposition times of PPy are 10, 20, 25 and 30 min, specific capacitances of composite electrodes reach 657, 553, 471 and 396 F g-1, respectively. Cyclic behaviors of RuO2/PPy composite electrodes are stable.

Bio-active glass air-abrasion has the potential to remove resin composite restorative material selectively

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milly, Hussam; Andiappan, Manoharan; Thompson, Ian; Banerjee, Avijit

2014-06-01

The aims of this study were to assess: (a) the chemistry, morphology and bioactivity of bio-active glass (BAG) air-abrasive powder, (b) the effect of three air-abrasion operating parameters: air pressure, powder flow rate (PFR) and the abrasive powder itself, on the selective removal of resin composite and (c) the required "time taken". BAG abrasive particles were characterised using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Standardised resin composite restorations created within an enamel analogue block (Macor™) in vitro, were removed using air-abrasion undersimulated clinical conditions. 90 standardised cavities were scanned before and after resin composite removal using laser profilometry and the volume of the resulting 3D images calculated. Multilevel linear model was used to identify the significant factors affecting Macor™ removal. BAG powder removed resin composite more selectively than conventional air-abrasion alumina powder using the same operating parameters (p < 0.001) and the effect of altering the unit's operating parameters was significant (p < 0.001). In conclusion, BAG powder is more efficient than alumina in the selective removal of resin composite particularly under specific operating parameters, and therefore may be recommended clinically as a method of preserving sound enamel structure when repairing and removing defective resin composite restorations.

Positive electrode for a lithium battery

DOEpatents

Park, Sang-Ho; Amine, Khalil

2015-04-07

A method for producing a lithium alkali transition metal oxide for use as a positive electrode material for lithium secondary batteries by a precipitation method. The positive electrode material is a lithium alkali transition metal composite oxide and is prepared by mixing a solid state mixed with alkali and transition metal carbonate and a lithium source. The mixture is thermally treated to obtain a small amount of alkali metal residual in the lithium transition metal composite oxide cathode material.

Time-lag properties of corona streamer discharges between impulse sphere and dc needle electrodes under atmospheric air conditions.

PubMed

Okano, Daisuke

2013-02-01

In this study of corona streamer discharges from an impulse generator using a dc power supply, the relationship of the discharge time-lag with the dc bias voltage between the sphere-to-needle electrodes under atmospheric conditions is investigated. Devices utilizing corona discharges have been used to purify air or water, destroy bacteria, and to remove undesirable substances, and in order to achieve fast response times and high power efficiencies in such devices, it is important to minimize the time-lag of the corona discharge. Our experimental results show that (a) the discharge path of a negatively biased needle electrode will be straighter than that of a positively biased needle and (b) the discharge threshold voltage in both the positive and the negative needle electrodes is nearly equal to 33 kV. By expressing the discharge voltage as a power function of time-lag, the extent of corona generation can be quantitatively specified using the exponent of this power function. The observed behavior of a corona streamer discharge between the negative spherical and the positive needle electrodes indicates that the largest power exponent is associated with the shortest time-lag, owing to the reduction in the statistical time-lag in the absence of a formative time-lag.

Time-lag properties of corona streamer discharges between impulse sphere and dc needle electrodes under atmospheric air conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okano, Daisuke

2013-02-01

In this study of corona streamer discharges from an impulse generator using a dc power supply, the relationship of the discharge time-lag with the dc bias voltage between the sphere-to-needle electrodes under atmospheric conditions is investigated. Devices utilizing corona discharges have been used to purify air or water, destroy bacteria, and to remove undesirable substances, and in order to achieve fast response times and high power efficiencies in such devices, it is important to minimize the time-lag of the corona discharge. Our experimental results show that (a) the discharge path of a negatively biased needle electrode will be straighter than that of a positively biased needle and (b) the discharge threshold voltage in both the positive and the negative needle electrodes is nearly equal to 33 kV. By expressing the discharge voltage as a power function of time-lag, the extent of corona generation can be quantitatively specified using the exponent of this power function. The observed behavior of a corona streamer discharge between the negative spherical and the positive needle electrodes indicates that the largest power exponent is associated with the shortest time-lag, owing to the reduction in the statistical time-lag in the absence of a formative time-lag.

Method of bonding a conductive layer on an electrode of an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Bowker, J.C.; Singh, P.

1989-08-29

A dense, electronically conductive interconnection layer is bonded onto a porous, tubular, electronically conductive air electrode structure, optionally supported by a ceramic support, by (A) providing an air electrode surface, (B) forming on a selected portion of the electrode surface, without the use of pressure, particles of LaCrO[sub 3] doped with an element selected from the group consisting of Sr, Mg, Ca, Ba, Co, and mixtures thereof, where the particles have a deposit on their surface comprising calcium oxide and chromium oxide; (C) heating the particles with the oxide surface deposit in an oxidizing atmosphere at from 1,300 C to 1,550 C, without the application of pressure, to provide a dense, sintered, interconnection material bonded to the air electrode, where calcium and chromium from the surface deposit are incorporated into the structure of the LaCrO[sub 3]. A solid electrolyte layer can be applied to the uncovered portion of the air electrode, and a fuel electrode can be applied to the solid electrolyte, to provide an electrochemical cell. 4 figs.

Pseudocapacitive performance of electrodeposited porous Co3O4 film on electrophoretically modified graphite electrodes with carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazazi, Mahdi; Sedighi, Ali Reza; Mokhtari, Mohammad Amin

2018-05-01

A facile and efficient two-step procedure was developed for the fabrication of a high-performance and binder-free cobalt oxide-carbon nanotubes (CO/CNT) pseudocapacitive electrode. First, CNTs were deposited on the surface of a chemically activated graphite sheet by cathodic electrophoretic deposition technique from their ethanolic suspension. In the next step, a thin film of cobalt oxide was electrodeposited on the CNTs coated graphite substrate by a galvanostatic method, followed by a thermal treatment in air. The structure and morphology of the prepared cobaltite electrode with and without CNT interlayer were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurement. The results indicated that Co3O4 nanoparticles were uniformly attached on the surface of CNTs, to form a porous-structured CO/CNT composite electrode with a high specific surface area of 144.9 m2 g-1. Owing to the superior electrical conductivity of CNTs, high surface area and open porous structure, and improved integrity of the electrode structure, the composite electrode delivered a high areal capacitance of 4.96F cm-2 at a current density of 2 mA cm-2, a superior rate performance (64.7% capacitance retention from 2 mA cm-2 to 50 mA cm-2), as well as excellent cycling stability (91.8% capacitance retention after 2000 cycles), which are higher than those of the pure cobaltite electrode.

Aluminum-based metal-air batteries

DOEpatents

Friesen, Cody A.; Martinez, Jose Antonio Bautista

2016-01-12

Provided in one embodiment is an electrochemical cell, comprising: (i) a plurality of electrodes, comprising a fuel electrode that comprises aluminum and an air electrode that absorbs gaseous oxygen, the electrodes being operable in a discharge mode wherein the aluminum is oxidized at the fuel electrode and oxygen is reduced at the air electrode, and (ii) an ionically conductive medium, comprising an organic solvent; wherein during non-use of the cell, the organic solvent promotes formation of a protective interface between the aluminum of the fuel electrode and the ionically conductive medium, and wherein at an onset of the discharge mode, at least some of the protective interface is removed from the aluminum to thereafter permit oxidation of the aluminum during the discharge mode.

Amorphous V-O-C composite nanofibers electrospun from solution precursors as binder- and conductive additive-free electrodes for supercapacitors with outstanding performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xia; Zhao, Bote; Cai, Yong; Tadé, Moses O.; Shao, Zongping

2013-11-01

Flexible V-O-C composite nanofibers were fabricated from solution precursors via electrospinning and were investigated as free-standing and additive-free film electrodes for supercapacitors. Specifically, composite nanofibers (V0, V5, V10 and V20) with different vanadyl acetylacetonate (VO(acac)2) contents of 0, 5, 10 and 20 wt% with respect to polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were prepared. The composite nanofibers were comparatively studied using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, N2 adsorption-desorption, FE-SEM, TEM and S-TEM. The vanadium element was found to be well-dispersed in the carbon nanofibers, free from the formation of an aggregated crystalline phase, even in the case of V20. A specific surface area of 587.9 m2 g-1 was reached for V10 after calcination, which is approximately twice that of the vanadium-free carbon nanofibers (V0, 300.9 m2 g-1). To perform as an electrode for supercapacitors in an aqueous electrolyte, the V10 film delivered a specific capacitance of 463 F g-1 at 1 A g-1. V10 was also able to retain a specific capacitance of 380 F g-1, even at a current density of 10 A g-1. Additionally, very stable cycling stability was achieved, maintaining an outstanding specific capacitance of 400 F g-1 at 5 A g-1 after charge-discharge cycling 5000 times. Thus, V-O-C composite nanofibers are highly attractive electrode materials for flexible, high-power, thin film energy storage devices and applications.Flexible V-O-C composite nanofibers were fabricated from solution precursors via electrospinning and were investigated as free-standing and additive-free film electrodes for supercapacitors. Specifically, composite nanofibers (V0, V5, V10 and V20) with different vanadyl acetylacetonate (VO(acac)2) contents of 0, 5, 10 and 20 wt% with respect to polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were prepared. The composite nanofibers were comparatively studied using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, N2 adsorption-desorption, FE-SEM, TEM and S-TEM. The vanadium element was found to be well

A cost-effective nanoporous ultrathin film electrode based on nanoporous gold/IrO2 composite for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Yachao; Guo, Xiaoqian; Shao, Zhigang; Yu, Hongmei; Song, Wei; Wang, Zhiqiang; Zhang, Hongjie; Yi, Baolian

2017-02-01

A cost-effective nanoporous ultrathin film (NPUF) electrode based on nanoporous gold (NPG)/IrO2 composite has been constructed for proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. The electrode was fabricated by integrating IrO2 nanoparticles into NPG through a facile dealloying and thermal decomposition method. The NPUF electrode is featured in its 3D interconnected nanoporosity and ultrathin thickness. The nanoporous ultrathin architecture is binder-free and beneficial for improving electrochemical active surface area, enhancing mass transport and facilitating releasing of oxygen produced during water electrolysis. Serving as anode, a single cell performance of 1.728 V (@ 2 A cm-2) has been achieved by NPUF electrode with a loading of IrO2 and Au at 86.43 and 100.0 μg cm-2 respectively, the electrolysis voltage is 58 mV lower than that of conventional electrode with an Ir loading an order of magnitude higher. The electrolysis voltage kept relatively constant up to 300 h (@250 mA cm-2) during the course of durability test, manifesting that NPUF electrode is promising for gas evolution.

Effects of Electrodeposition Mode and Deposition Cycle on the Electrochemical Performance of MnO2-NiO Composite Electrodes for High-Energy-Density Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Rusi; Majid, S R

2016-01-01

Nanostructured network-like MnO2-NiO composite electrodes were electrodeposited onto stainless steel substrates via different electrodeposition modes, such as chronopotentiometry, chronoamperometry, and cyclic voltammetry, and then subjected to heat treatment at 300°C for metal oxide conversion. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to study the crystalline natures and morphologies of the deposited films. The electrochemical properties were investigated using cyclic voltammetry and charge/discharge tests. The results revealed that the electrochemical performance of the as-obtained composite electrodes depended on the electrodeposition mode. The electrochemical properties of MnO2-NiO composite electrodes prepared using cyclic voltammetry exhibited the highest capacitance values and were most influenced by the deposition cycle number. The optimum specific capacitance was 3509 Fg-1 with energy and power densities of 1322 Wh kg-1 and 110.5 kW kg-1, respectively, at a current density of 20 Ag-1 in a mixed KOH/K3Fe(CN)6 electrolyte.

Effects of Electrodeposition Mode and Deposition Cycle on the Electrochemical Performance of MnO2-NiO Composite Electrodes for High-Energy-Density Supercapacitors

PubMed Central

Rusi; Majid, S. R.

2016-01-01

Nanostructured network-like MnO2-NiO composite electrodes were electrodeposited onto stainless steel substrates via different electrodeposition modes, such as chronopotentiometry, chronoamperometry, and cyclic voltammetry, and then subjected to heat treatment at 300°C for metal oxide conversion. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to study the crystalline natures and morphologies of the deposited films. The electrochemical properties were investigated using cyclic voltammetry and charge/discharge tests. The results revealed that the electrochemical performance of the as-obtained composite electrodes depended on the electrodeposition mode. The electrochemical properties of MnO2-NiO composite electrodes prepared using cyclic voltammetry exhibited the highest capacitance values and were most influenced by the deposition cycle number. The optimum specific capacitance was 3509 Fg−1 with energy and power densities of 1322 Wh kg−1 and 110.5 kW kg−1, respectively, at a current density of 20 Ag−1 in a mixed KOH/K3Fe(CN)6 electrolyte. PMID:27182595

Fabrication and characterization of a micromachined swirl-shaped ionic polymer metal composite actuator with electrodes exhibiting asymmetric resistance.

PubMed

Feng, Guo-Hua; Liu, Kim-Min

2014-05-12

This paper presents a swirl-shaped microfeatured ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) actuator. A novel micromachining process was developed to fabricate an array of IPMC actuators on a glass substrate and to ensure that no shortcircuits occur between the electrodes of the actuator. We demonstrated a microfluidic scheme in which surface tension was used to construct swirl-shaped planar IPMC devices of microfeature size and investigated the flow velocity of Nafion solutions, which formed the backbone polymer of the actuator, within the microchannel. The unique fabrication process yielded top and bottom electrodes that exhibited asymmetric surface resistance. A tool for measuring surface resistance was developed and used to characterize the resistances of the electrodes for the fabricated IPMC device. The actuator, which featured asymmetric electrode resistance, caused a nonzero-bias current when the device was driven using a zero-bias square wave, and we propose a circuit model to describe this phenomenon. Moreover, we discovered and characterized a bending and rotating motion when the IPMC actuator was driven using a square wave. We observed a strain rate of 14.6% and a displacement of 700 μm in the direction perpendicular to the electrode surfaces during 4.5-V actuation.

Fabrication and Characterization of a Micromachined Swirl-Shaped Ionic Polymer Metal Composite Actuator with Electrodes Exhibiting Asymmetric Resistance

PubMed Central

Feng, Guo-Hua; Liu, Kim-Min

2014-01-01

This paper presents a swirl-shaped microfeatured ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) actuator. A novel micromachining process was developed to fabricate an array of IPMC actuators on a glass substrate and to ensure that no shortcircuits occur between the electrodes of the actuator. We demonstrated a microfluidic scheme in which surface tension was used to construct swirl-shaped planar IPMC devices of microfeature size and investigated the flow velocity of Nafion solutions, which formed the backbone polymer of the actuator, within the microchannel. The unique fabrication process yielded top and bottom electrodes that exhibited asymmetric surface resistance. A tool for measuring surface resistance was developed and used to characterize the resistances of the electrodes for the fabricated IPMC device. The actuator, which featured asymmetric electrode resistance, caused a nonzero-bias current when the device was driven using a zero-bias square wave, and we propose a circuit model to describe this phenomenon. Moreover, we discovered and characterized a bending and rotating motion when the IPMC actuator was driven using a square wave. We observed a strain rate of 14.6% and a displacement of 700 μm in the direction perpendicular to the electrode surfaces during 4.5-V actuation. PMID:24824370

Carbon nanotube/metal-sulfide composite flexible electrodes for high-performance quantum dot-sensitized solar cells and supercapacitors

PubMed Central

Muralee Gopi, Chandu V. V.; Ravi, Seenu; Rao, S. Srinivasa; Eswar Reddy, Araveeti; Kim, Hee-Je

2017-01-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) and metal sulfides have attracted considerable attention owing to their outstanding properties and multiple application areas, such as electrochemical energy conversion and energy storage. Here we describes a cost-effective and facile solution approach to the preparation of metal sulfides (PbS, CuS, CoS, and NiS) grown directly on CNTs, such as CNT/PbS, CNT/CuS, CNT/CoS, and CNT/NiS flexible electrodes for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) and supercapacitors (SCs). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the CNT network was covered with high-purity metal sulfide compounds. QDSSCs equipped with the CNT/NiS counter electrode (CE) showed an impressive energy conversion efficiency (η) of 6.41% and remarkable stability. Interestingly, the assembled symmetric CNT/NiS-based polysulfide SC device exhibited a maximal energy density of 35.39 W h kg−1 and superior cycling durability with 98.39% retention after 1,000 cycles compared to the other CNT/metal-sulfides. The elevated performance of the composites was attributed mainly to the good conductivity, high surface area with mesoporous structures and stability of the CNTs and the high electrocatalytic activity of the metal sulfides. Overall, the designed composite CNT/metal-sulfide electrodes offer an important guideline for the development of next level energy conversion and energy storage devices. PMID:28422182

Electrochemiluminescence of luminol at the titanate nanotubes modified glassy carbon electrode.

PubMed

Xu, Guifang; Zeng, Xiaoxue; Lu, Shuangyan; Dai, Hong; Gong, Lingshan; Lin, Yanyu; Wang, Qingping; Tong, Yuejin; Chen, Guonan

2013-01-01

A new strategy for the construction of a sensitive and stable electrochemiluminescent platform based on titanate nanotubes (TNTs) and Nafion composite modified electrode for luminol is described, TNTs contained composite modified electrodes that showed some photocatalytic activity toward luminol electrochemiluminescence emission, and thus could dramatically enhance luminol light emission. This extremely sensitive and stable platform allowed a decrease of the experiment electrochemiluminescence luminol reagent. In addition, in luminol solution at low concentrations, we compared the capabilities of a bare glassy carbon electrode with the TNT composite modified electrode for hydrogen peroxide detection. The results indicated that compared with glassy carbon electrode this platform was extraordinarily sensitive to hydrogen peroxide. Therefore, by combining with an appropriate enzymatic reaction, this platform would be a sensitive matrix for many biomolecules.

Optimal Electrode Selection for Electrical Resistance Tomography in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites

PubMed Central

Escalona Galvis, Luis Waldo; Diaz-Montiel, Paulina; Venkataraman, Satchi

2017-01-01

Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) offers a non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technique that takes advantage of the inherent electrical properties in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites for internal damage characterization. This paper investigates a method of optimum selection of sensing configurations for delamination detection in thick cross-ply laminates using ERT. Reduction in the number of sensing locations and measurements is necessary to minimize hardware and computational effort. The present work explores the use of an effective independence (EI) measure originally proposed for sensor location optimization in experimental vibration modal analysis. The EI measure is used for selecting the minimum set of resistance measurements among all possible combinations resulting from selecting sensing electrode pairs. Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) is applied to obtain a spectral representation of the resistance measurements in the laminate for subsequent EI based reduction to take place. The electrical potential field in a CFRP laminate is calculated using finite element analysis (FEA) applied on models for two different laminate layouts considering a set of specified delamination sizes and locations with two different sensing arrangements. The effectiveness of the EI measure in eliminating redundant electrode pairs is demonstrated by performing inverse identification of damage using the full set and the reduced set of resistance measurements. This investigation shows that the EI measure is effective for optimally selecting the electrode pairs needed for resistance measurements in ERT based damage detection. PMID:28772485

Application of graphene-ionic liquid-chitosan composite-modified carbon molecular wire electrode for the sensitive determination of adenosine-5'-monophosphate.

PubMed

Shi, Fan; Gong, Shixing; Xu, Li; Zhu, Huanhuan; Sun, Zhenfan; Sun, Wei

2013-12-01

In this paper, a graphene (GR) ionic liquid (IL) 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate and chitosan composite-modified carbon molecular wire electrode (CMWE) was fabricated by a drop-casting method and further applied to the sensitive electrochemical detection of adenosine-5'-monophosphate (AMP). CMWE was prepared with diphenylacetylene (DPA) as the modifier and the binder. The properties of modified electrode were examined by scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Electrochemical behaviors of AMP was carefully investigated with enhanced responses appeared, which was due to the presence of GR-IL composite on the electrode surface with excellent electrocatalytic ability. A well-defined oxidation peak of AMP appeared at 1.314 V and the electrochemical parameters were calculated by electrochemical methods. Under the selected conditions, the oxidation peak current of AMP was proportional to its concentration in the range from 0.01 μM to 80.0 μM with the detection limit as 3.42 nM (3σ) by differential pulse voltammetry. The proposed method exhibited good selectivity and was applied to the detection of vidarabine monophosphate injection samples with satisfactory results. © 2013.

Design and synthesis of hierarchical MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanotubes/conducting polymer ternary composite for high performance electrochemical electrodes.

PubMed

Hou, Ye; Cheng, Yingwen; Hobson, Tyler; Liu, Jie

2010-07-14

For efficient use of metal oxides, such as MnO(2) and RuO(2), in pseudocapacitors and other electrochemical applications, the poor conductivity of the metal oxide is a major problem. To tackle the problem, we have designed a ternary nanocomposite film composed of metal oxide (MnO(2)), carbon nanotube (CNT), and conducting polymer (CP). Each component in the MnO(2)/CNT/CP film provides unique and critical function to achieve optimized electrochemical properties. The electrochemical performance of the film is evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, and constant-current charge/discharge cycling techniques. Specific capacitance (SC) of the ternary composite electrode can reach 427 F/g. Even at high mass loading and high concentration of MnO(2) (60%), the film still showed SC value as high as 200 F/g. The electrode also exhibited excellent charge/discharge rate and good cycling stability, retaining over 99% of its initial charge after 1000 cycles. The results demonstrated that MnO(2) is effectively utilized with assistance of other components (fFWNTs and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) in the electrode. Such ternary composite is very promising for the next generation high performance electrochemical supercapacitors.

Air-cooled, hydrogen-air fuel cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shelekhin, Alexander B. (Inventor); Bushnell, Calvin L. (Inventor); Pien, Michael S. (Inventor)

1999-01-01

An air-cooled, hydrogen-air solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) fuel cell with a membrane electrode assembly operatively associated with a fluid flow plate having at least one plate cooling channel extending through the plate and at least one air distribution hole extending from a surface of the cathode flow field into the plate cooling channel.

Method of preparing a positive electrode for an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Tomczuk, Zygmunt

1979-01-01

A method of preparing an electrochemical cell including a metal sulfide as the positive electrode reactant and lithium alloy as the negative electrochemical reactant with an alkali metal, molten salt electrolyte is disclosed which permits the assembly to be accomplished in air. The electrode reactants are introduced in the most part as a sulfide of lithium and the positive electrode metal in a single-phase compound. For instance, Li.sub.2 FeS.sub.2 is a single-phase compound that is produced by the reaction of Li.sub.2 S and FeS. This compound is an intermediate in the positive electrode cycle from FeS.sub.2 to Fe and Li.sub.2 S. Its use minimizes volumetric changes from the assembled to the charged and discharged conditions of the electrode and minimizes electrode material interaction with air and moisture during assembly.

High efficiency iron electrode and additives for use in rechargeable iron-based batteries

DOEpatents

Narayan, Sri R.; Prakash, G. K. Surya; Aniszfeld, Robert; Manohar, Aswin; Malkhandi, Souradip; Yang, Bo

2017-02-21

An iron electrode and a method of manufacturing an iron electrode for use in an iron-based rechargeable battery are disclosed. In one embodiment, the iron electrode includes carbonyl iron powder and one of a metal sulfide additive or metal oxide additive selected from the group of metals consisting of bismuth, lead, mercury, indium, gallium, and tin for suppressing hydrogen evolution at the iron electrode during charging of the iron-based rechargeable battery. An iron-air rechargeable battery including an iron electrode comprising carbonyl iron is also disclosed, as is an iron-air battery wherein at least one of the iron electrode and the electrolyte includes an organosulfur additive.

Effects of atmospheric air plasma treatment on interfacial properties of PBO fiber reinforced composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chengshuang; Li, Cuiyun; Wang, Baiya; Wang, Bin; Cui, Hong

2013-07-01

Poly(p-phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) fiber was modified by atmospheric air plasma treatment. The effects of plasma treatment power and speed on both surface properties of PBO fibers and interfacial properties of PBO/epoxy composites were investigated. Surface chemical composition of PBO fibers were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Surface morphologies of the fibers and interface structures of the composites were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Interfacial adhesion property of the composites was evaluated by interlaminar shear strength (ILSS). Mechanical properties of PBO multifilament were measured by universal testing machine. The results indicate that atmospheric air plasma treatment introduced some polar or oxygen-containing groups to PBO fiber surfaces, enhanced surface roughness and changed surface morphologies of PBO fibers by plasma etching and oxidative reactions. The plasma treatment also improved interfacial adhesion of PBO/epoxy composites but has little effect on tensile properties of PBO multifilament. The ILSS of PBO/epoxy composites increased to 40.0 MPa after atmospheric air plasma treatment with plasma treatment power of 300 W and treatment speed of 6 m/min.

A Facile Electrophoretic Deposition Route to the Fe3O4/CNTs/rGO Composite Electrode as a Binder-Free Anode for Lithium Ion Battery.

PubMed

Yang, Yang; Li, Jiaqi; Chen, Dingqiong; Zhao, Jinbao

2016-10-12

Fe 3 O 4 is regarded as an attractive anode material for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity, natural abundance, and low cost. However, the poor cyclic performance resulting from the low conductivity and huge volume change during cycling impedes its application. Here we have developed a facile electrophoretic deposition route to fabricate the Fe 3 O 4 /CNTs (carbon nanotubes)/rGO (reduced graphene oxide) composite electrode, simultaneously achieving material synthesis and electrode assembling. Even without binders, the adhesion and mechanical firmness of the electrode are strong enough to be used for LIB anode. In this specific structure, Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (NPs) interconnected by CNTs are sandwiched by rGO layers to form a robust network with good conductivity. The resulting Fe 3 O 4 /CNTs/rGO composite electrode exhibits much improved electrochemical performance (high reversible capacity of 540 mAh g -1 at a very high current density of 10 A g -1 , and a remarkable capacity of 1080 mAh g -1 can be maintained after 450 cycles at 1 A g -1 ) compared with that of commercial Fe 3 O 4 NPs electrode.

Design and synthesis of polymer, carbon and composite electrodes for high energy and high power supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arcila Velez, Margarita Rosa

Supercapacitors (SCs) are promising energy storage devices because they deliver energy faster than Li-ion batteries and store larger amounts of charge compared to dielectric capacitors. SCs are classified in electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) and pseudocapacitors, based on their charge storage mechanism. EDLCs store charge electrostatically, i.e. by physical charge separation. This mechanism limits the storable amount of energy to the available surface area of the electrode, typically made of carbon materials, but grants good cycling stability of the SC device. Pseudocapacitor electrodes, commonly made of conducting polymers or metal oxides, store charge faradaically, i.e. through redox reactions throughout the bulk material, which allows them to store significantly larger amounts of energy than EDLCs, but their stability is compromised due to the partial irreversibility of the faradaic processes. To accomplish the commercialization of SCs, devices must show a combination of high charge storage capacities and long-term stability, besides being cost-effective. To tackle the current issues of SCs, this field of study has taken mainly two directions: 1) the development of new architectures and nanostructures of the active materials, which has shown to increase the surface area, enhance stability, and facilitate ion diffusion; and 2) fabrication of composites between non-faradaic (carbon), faradaic materials, and/or redox-active components to achieve a balance between the amount of energy stored and the stability. Following the first approach, a continuous process to grow vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) on cost-effective aluminum foil was developed. The resulting electrodes were analyzed as SC electrodes and in symmetric cells, and the influence of the arrangement of the nanotubes and the synthesis conditions was studied. The performance of the VACNTs produced continuously showed similar performance to the VACNTs produced stationarily and the

Carbon fiber composite molecular sieve electrically regenerable air filter media

DOEpatents

Wilson, Kirk A.; Burchell, Timothy D.; Judkins, Roddie R.

1998-01-01

An electrically regenerable gas filter system includes a carbon fiber composite molecular sieve (CFCMS) filter medium. After a separate medium-efficiency pre-filter removes particulate from the supply airstream, the CFCMS filter sorbs gaseous air pollutants before the air is recirculated to the space. When saturated, the CFCMS media is regenerated utilizing a low-voltage current that is caused to pass through the filter medium.

Space Suit Electrocardiographic Electrode Selection: Are commercial electrodes better than the old Apollo technology?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redmond, M.; Polk, J. D.; Hamilton, D.; Schuette, M.; Guttromson, J.; Guess, T.; Smith, B.

2005-01-01

The NASA Manned Space Program uses an electrocardiograph (ECG) system to monitor astronauts during extravehicular activity (EVA). This ECG system, called the Operational Bioinstrumentation System (OBS), was developed during the Apollo era. Throughout the Shuttle program these electrodes experienced failures during several EVAs performed from the Space Shuttle and International Space Station (ISS) airlocks. An attempt during Shuttle Flight STS-109 to replace the old electrodes with new commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) disposable electrodes proved unsuccessful. One assumption for failure of the STS-109 COTS electrodes was the expansion of trapped gases under the foam electrode pad, causing the electrode to be displaced from the skin. Given that our current electrodes provide insufficient reliability, a number of COTS ECG electrodes were tested at the NASA Altitude Manned Chamber Test Facility. Methods: OBS disposable electrodes were tested on human test subjects in an altitude chamber simulating an Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) operating pressure of 4.3 psia with the following goals: (1) to confirm the root cause of the flight certified, disposable electrode failure during flight STS-109. (2) to identify an adequate COTS replacement electrode and determine if further modifications to the electrodes are required. (3) to evaluate the adhesion of each disposable electrode without preparation of the skin with isopropyl alcohol. Results: There were several electrodes that failed the pressure testing at 4.3psia, including the electrodes used during flight STS-109. Two electrodes functioned well throughout all testing and were selected for further testing in an EMU at altitude. A vent hole placed in all electrodes was also tested as a possible solution to prevent gas expansion from causing electrode failures. Conclusions: Two failure modes were identified: (1) foam-based porous electrodes entrapped air bubbles under the pad (2) poor adhesion caused some electrodes to

Sulfur based electrode materials for secondary batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Yong

Developing next generation secondary batteries has attracted much attention in recent years due to the increasing demand of high energy and high power density energy storage for portable electronics, electric vehicles and renewable sources of energy. This dissertation investigates sulfur based advanced electrode materials in Lithium/Sodium batteries. The electrochemical performances of the electrode materials have been enhanced due to their unique nano structures as well as the formation of novel composites. First, a nitrogen-doped graphene nanosheets/sulfur (NGNSs/S) composite was synthesized via a facile chemical reaction deposition. In this composite, NGNSs were employed as a conductive host to entrap S/polysulfides in the cathode part. The NGNSs/S composite delivered an initial discharge capacity of 856.7 mAh g-1 and a reversible capacity of 319.3 mAh g-1 at 0.1C with good recoverable rate capability. Second, NGNS/S nanocomposites, synthesized using chemical reaction-deposition method and low temperature heat treatment, were further studied as active cathode materials for room temperature Na-S batteries. Both high loading composite with 86% gamma-S8 and low loading composite with 25% gamma-S8 have been electrochemically evaluated and compared with both NGNS and S control electrodes. It was found that low loading NGNS/S composite exhibited better electrochemical performance with specific capacity of 110 and 48 mAh g-1 at 0.1C at the 1st and 300th cycle, respectively. The Coulombic efficiency of 100% was obtained at the 300th cycle. Third, high purity rock-salt (RS), zinc-blende (ZB) and wurtzite (WZ) MnS nanocrystals with different morphologies were successfully synthesized via a facile solvothermal method. RS-, ZB- and WZ-MnS electrodes showed the capacities of 232.5 mAh g-1, 287.9 mAh g-1 and 79.8 mAh g-1 at the 600th cycle, respectively. ZB-MnS displayed the best performance in terms of specific capacity and cyclability. Interestingly, MnS electrodes

One-step triple-phase interfacial synthesis of polyaniline-coated polypyrrole composite and its application as electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Wen; He, Ping; Zhang, Susu; Dong, Faqin; Ma, Yongjun

2014-11-01

We first present an alternative one-step route for constructing a novel polyaniline (PANI)-coated polypyrrole (PPy) composite in an ingenious triple-phase interface system, where PPy and PANI are prepared in individual non-interference interfaces and, in the middle aqueous phase, smaller PANI particles are uniformly coated on the surface of PPy particles, forming a core-shell structure. The prepared PPy/PANI composite electrode shows a superior capacitance behavior that is more suitable for supercapacitor application.

Method of bonding a conductive layer on an electrode of an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Bowker, Jeffrey C.; Singh, Prabhakar

1989-01-01

A dense, electronically conductive interconnection layer 26 is bonded onto a porous, tubular, electronically conductive air electrode structure 16, optionally supported by a ceramic support 22, by (A) providing an air electrode surface, (B) forming on a selected portion of the electrode surface 24, without the use of pressure, particles of LaCrO.sub.3 doped with an element selected from the group consisting of Sr, Mg, Ca, Ba, Co, and mixtures thereof, where the particles have a deposit on their surface comprising calcium oxide and chromium oxide; (C) heating the particles with the oxide surface deposit in an oxidizing atmosphere at from 1,300.degree. C. to 1,550.degree. C., without the application of pressure, to provide a dense, sintered, interconnection material 26 bonded to the air electrode 16, where calcium and chromium from the surface deposit are incorporated into the structure of the LaCrO.sub.3. A solid electrolyte layer 18 can be applied to the uncovered portion of the air electrode, and a fuel electrode 20 can be applied to the solid electrolyte, to provide an electrochemical cell 10.

Fabrication, characterization of two nano-composite CuO-ZnO working electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cell.

PubMed

Habibi, Mohammad Hossein; Karimi, Bahareh; Zendehdel, Mahmoud; Habibi, Mehdi

2013-12-01

Two kind of CuO-ZnO nanocomposite working electrodes were synthesized by sol-gel technology and applied in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Their characteristics were studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS). CuO-ZnO nanocomposite thin films were prepared doctor blade technique on the fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and used as working electrodes in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC). Their photovoltaic behavior were compared with standard using D35 dye and an electrolyte containing [Co(bpy)3](PF6)2, [Co(pby)3](PF6)3, LiClO4, and 4-tert-butylpyridine (TBP). The ranges of short-circuit current (JSC) from 0.18 to 0.21 (mA/cm(2)), open-circuit voltage (VOC) from 0.24 to 0.55V, and fill factor from 0.34 to 0.39 were obtained for the DSSCs made using the working electrodes. The efficiency of the working electrodes after the addition of TBL was more than doubled. The light scattering and carrier transport properties of these composites promote the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

3D Graphene Frameworks/Co3 O4 Composites Electrode for High-Performance Supercapacitor and Enzymeless Glucose Detection.

PubMed

Bao, Lin; Li, Tao; Chen, Shu; Peng, Chang; Li, Ling; Xu, Qian; Chen, Yashao; Ou, Encai; Xu, Weijian

2017-02-01

3D graphene frameworks/Co 3 O 4 composites are produced by the thermal explosion method, in which the generation of Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles, reduction of graphene oxide, and creation of 3D frameworks are simultaneously completed. The process prevents the agglomeration of Co 3 O 4 particles effectively, resulting in monodispersed Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles scattered on the 3D graphene frameworks evenly. The prepared 3D graphene frameworks/Co 3 O 4 composites used as electrodes for supercapacitor display a definite improvement on electrochemical performance with high specific capacitance (≈1765 F g -1 at a current density of 1 A g -1 ), good rate performance (≈1266 F g -1 at a current density of 20 A g -1 ), and excellent stability (≈93% maintenance of specific capacitance at a constant current density of 10 A g -1 after 5000 cycles). In addition, the composites are also employed as nonenzymatic sensors for the electrochemical detection of glucose, which exhibit high sensitivity (122.16 µA mM -1  cm -2 ) and noteworthy lower detection limit (157 × 10 -9 M, S/N = 3). Therefore, the authors expect that the 3D graphene frameworks/Co 3 O 4 composites described here would possess potential applications as the electrode materials in supercapacitors and nonenzymatic detection of glucose. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Extraction of Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen from Seawater By an Electrolytic Cation Exchange Module (E-CEM) Part 5: E-CEM Effluent Discharge Composition as a Function of Electrode Water Composition

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-01

Naval Research Laboratory Washington, DC 20375-5320 NRL/MR/6360--17-9743 Extraction of Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen from Seawater by an Electrolytic...Cation Exchange Module (E-CEM) Part V: E-CEM Effluent Discharge Composition as a Function of Electrode Water Composition August 1, 2017 Approved for...Office of Naval Research Arlington, Virginia Dennis r. HarDy Nova Research Inc. Alexandria, Virginia i REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE Form

Fabrication of Composite Microneedle Array Electrode for Temperature and Bio-Signal Monitoring.

PubMed

Sun, Yiwei; Ren, Lei; Jiang, Lelun; Tang, Yong; Liu, Bin

2018-04-13

Body temperature and bio-signals are important health indicators that reflect the human health condition. However, monitoring these indexes is inconvenient and time-consuming, requires various instruments, and needs professional skill. In this study, a composite microneedle array electrode (CMAE) was designed and fabricated. It simultaneously detects body temperature and bio-signals. The CMAE consists of a 6 × 6 microneedles array with a height of 500 μm and a base diameter of 200 μm. Multiple insertion experiments indicate that the CMAE possesses excellent mechanical properties. The CMAE can pierce porcine skin 100 times without breaking or bending. A linear calibration relationship between temperature and voltage are experimentally obtained. Armpit temperature (35.8 °C) and forearm temperature (35.3 °C) are detected with the CMAE, and the measurements agree well with the data acquired with a clinical thermometer. Bio-signals including EII, ECG, and EMG are recorded and compared with those obtained by a commercial Ag/AgCl electrode. The CMAE continuously monitors bio-signals and is more convenient to apply because it does not require skin preparation and gel usage. The CMAE exhibits good potential for continuous and repetitive monitoring of body temperature and bio-signals.

Fabrication of Composite Microneedle Array Electrode for Temperature and Bio-Signal Monitoring

PubMed Central

Sun, Yiwei; Ren, Lei; Jiang, Lelun; Tang, Yong; Liu, Bin

2018-01-01

Body temperature and bio-signals are important health indicators that reflect the human health condition. However, monitoring these indexes is inconvenient and time-consuming, requires various instruments, and needs professional skill. In this study, a composite microneedle array electrode (CMAE) was designed and fabricated. It simultaneously detects body temperature and bio-signals. The CMAE consists of a 6 × 6 microneedles array with a height of 500 μm and a base diameter of 200 μm. Multiple insertion experiments indicate that the CMAE possesses excellent mechanical properties. The CMAE can pierce porcine skin 100 times without breaking or bending. A linear calibration relationship between temperature and voltage are experimentally obtained. Armpit temperature (35.8 °C) and forearm temperature (35.3 °C) are detected with the CMAE, and the measurements agree well with the data acquired with a clinical thermometer. Bio-signals including EII, ECG, and EMG are recorded and compared with those obtained by a commercial Ag/AgCl electrode. The CMAE continuously monitors bio-signals and is more convenient to apply because it does not require skin preparation and gel usage. The CMAE exhibits good potential for continuous and repetitive monitoring of body temperature and bio-signals. PMID:29652837

Striped Electrodes for Solid-Electrolyte Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richter, R.

1983-01-01

Striped thick-film platinum electrodes help insure lower overall cell resistance by permitting free flow of gases in gaps between stripes. Thickfilm stripes are also easier to fabricate than porous thin-film electrodes that cover entire surface. Possible applications for improved cells include oxygen production from carbon dioxide, extraction of oxygen from air, small fluidic pumping, sewage treatment, and fuel cells.

Magnetically Diffused Radial Electric-Arc Air Heater Employing Water-Cooled Copper Electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mayo, R. F.; Davis, D. D., Jr.

1962-01-01

A magnetically rotated electric-arc air heater has been developed that is novel in that an intense magnetic field of the order of 10,000 to 25,000 gauss is employed. This field is supplied by a coil that is connected in series with the arc. Experimentation with this heater has shown that the presence of an intense magnetic field transverse to the arc results in diffusion of the arc and that the arc has a positive effective resistance. With the field coil in series with the arc, highly stable arc operation is obtained from a battery power supply. External ballast is not required to stabilize the arc when it is operating at maximum power level. The electrode erosion rate is so low that the airstream contamination is no more than 0.07 percent and may be substantially less.

Development of Amperometric Biosensors Based on Nanostructured Tyrosinase-Conducting Polymer Composite Electrodes

PubMed Central

Lupu, Stelian; Lete, Cecilia; Balaure, Paul Cătălin; Caval, Dan Ion; Mihailciuc, Constantin; Lakard, Boris; Hihn, Jean-Yves; del Campo, Francisco Javier

2013-01-01

Bio-composite coatings consisting of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and tyrosinase (Ty) were successfully electrodeposited on conventional size gold (Au) disk electrodes and microelectrode arrays using sinusoidal voltages. Electrochemical polymerization of the corresponding monomer was carried out in the presence of various Ty amounts in aqueous buffered solutions. The bio-composite coatings prepared using sinusoidal voltages and potentiostatic electrodeposition methods were compared in terms of morphology, electrochemical properties, and biocatalytic activity towards various analytes. The amperometric biosensors were tested in dopamine (DA) and catechol (CT) electroanalysis in aqueous buffered solutions. The analytical performance of the developed biosensors was investigated in terms of linear response range, detection limit, sensitivity, and repeatability. A semi-quantitative multi-analyte procedure for simultaneous determination of DA and CT was developed. The amperometric biosensor prepared using sinusoidal voltages showed much better analytical performance. The Au disk biosensor obtained by 50 mV alternating voltage amplitude displayed a linear response for DA concentrations ranging from 10 to 300 μM, with a detection limit of 4.18 μM. PMID:23698270

Low circumferential voltage gradient self supporting electrode for solid oxide fuel cells

DOEpatents

Reichner, Philip

1989-01-01

The porous, self-supporting, elongated electrode is made, having at least two chambers through its axial length, the chambers separated by an electronically conductive member. This electrode can be an air electrode of a fuel cell, having a superimposed solid electrolyte and fuel electrode.

Recent advances in material science for developing enzyme electrodes.

PubMed

Sarma, Anil Kumar; Vatsyayan, Preety; Goswami, Pranab; Minteer, Shelley D

2009-04-15

The enzyme-modified electrode is the fundamental component of amperometric biosensors and biofuel cells. The selection of appropriate combinations of materials, such as: enzyme, electron transport mediator, binding and encapsulation materials, conductive support matrix and solid support, for construction of enzyme-modified electrodes governs the efficiency of the electrodes in terms of electron transfer kinetics, mass transport, stability, and reproducibility. This review investigates the varieties of materials that can be used for these purposes. Recent innovation in conductive electro-active polymers, functionalized polymers, biocompatible composite materials, composites of transition metal-based complexes and organometallic compounds, sol-gel and hydro-gel materials, nanomaterials, other nano-metal composites, and nano-metal oxides are reviewed and discussed here. In addition, the critical issues related to the construction of enzyme electrodes and their application for biosensor and biofuel cell applications are also highlighted in this article. Effort has been made to cover the recent literature on the advancement of materials sciences to develop enzyme electrodes and their potential applications for the construction of biosensors and biofuel cells.

MnO2 nanotubes assembled on conductive graphene/polyester composite fabric as a three-dimensional porous textile electrode for flexible electrochemical capacitors.

PubMed

Jin, Chun; Jin, Li-Na; Guo, Mei-Xia; Liu, Ping; Zhang, Jia-Nan; Bian, Shao-Wei

2017-12-15

A three-dimensional (3D) electrode material was successfully synthesized through a facile ZnO-assisted hydrothermal process in which vertical MnO 2 nanotube arrays were in situ grown on the conductive graphene/polyester composite fabric. The morphology and structure of MnO 2 nanotubes/graphene/polyester textile electrode were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The 3D electrode structure facilitates to achieve the maximum number of active sites for the pesudocapacitance redox reaction, fast electrolyte ion transportation and short ion diffusion path. The electrochemical measurements showed that the electrode possesses good capacitance capacity which reached 498F/g at a scan rate of 2mV/s in Na 2 SO 4 electrolyte solution. The electrode also showed stable electrochemical performances under the conditions of long-term cycling, and mechanical bending and twisting. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Amorphous V-O-C composite nanofibers electrospun from solution precursors as binder- and conductive additive-free electrodes for supercapacitors with outstanding performance.

PubMed

Chen, Xia; Zhao, Bote; Cai, Yong; Tadé, Moses O; Shao, Zongping

2013-12-21

Flexible V-O-C composite nanofibers were fabricated from solution precursors via electrospinning and were investigated as free-standing and additive-free film electrodes for supercapacitors. Specifically, composite nanofibers (V0, V5, V10 and V20) with different vanadyl acetylacetonate (VO(acac)2) contents of 0, 5, 10 and 20 wt% with respect to polyacrylonitrile (PAN) were prepared. The composite nanofibers were comparatively studied using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, N2 adsorption-desorption, FE-SEM, TEM and S-TEM. The vanadium element was found to be well-dispersed in the carbon nanofibers, free from the formation of an aggregated crystalline phase, even in the case of V20. A specific surface area of 587.9 m(2) g(-1) was reached for V10 after calcination, which is approximately twice that of the vanadium-free carbon nanofibers (V0, 300.9 m(2) g(-1)). To perform as an electrode for supercapacitors in an aqueous electrolyte, the V10 film delivered a specific capacitance of 463 F g(-1) at 1 A g(-1). V10 was also able to retain a specific capacitance of 380 F g(-1), even at a current density of 10 A g(-1). Additionally, very stable cycling stability was achieved, maintaining an outstanding specific capacitance of 400 F g(-1) at 5 A g(-1) after charge-discharge cycling 5000 times. Thus, V-O-C composite nanofibers are highly attractive electrode materials for flexible, high-power, thin film energy storage devices and applications.

A biosensor based on graphite epoxy composite electrode for aspartame and ethanol detection.

PubMed

Kirgöz, Ulkü Anik; Odaci, Dilek; Timur, Suna; Merkoçi, Arben; Alegret, Salvador; Beşün, Nurgün; Telefoncu, Azmi

2006-06-16

A gelatin membrane with carboxyl esterase and alcohol oxidase was subsequently integrated onto the surface of a graphite epoxy composite electrode (GECE). The developed biosensors showed linearity in the range of 2.5-400 microM for aspartame and 2.5-25 microM for ethanol with response times of 170 and 70s for each analyte, respectively. The resulting bienzyme biosensor was used for aspartame detection in diet coke samples and ethanol detection in beer and wine samples. From the obtained results, it can be concluded that the developed biosensor is a selective, practical and economic tool for aspartame and ethanol detection in real samples.

In situ preparation of NiS2/CoS2 composite electrocatalytic materials on conductive glass substrates with electronic modulation for high-performance counter electrodes of dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Faxin; Wang, Jiali; Zheng, Li; Zhao, Yaqiang; Huang, Niu; Sun, Panpan; Fang, Liang; Wang, Lei; Sun, Xiaohua

2018-04-01

The electrocatalytic composite materials of honeycomb structure NiS2 nanosheets loaded with metallic CoS2 nanoparticles are in situ prepared on F doped SnO2 conductive glass (FTO) substrates used as counter electrodes of DSSCs through chemical bath deposition (CBD) and sulfidizing process. Single crystalline NiS2 honeycomb structure array lay a foundation for the large surface area of NiS2/CoS2 composite CEs. The formed NiS2/CoS2 nanointerface modulates electronic structure of composite CEs from the synergetic interactions between CoS2 nanoparticles and NiS2 nanosheets, which dramatically improves the electrocatalytic activity of NiS2/CoS2 composite CEs; Metallic CoS2 nanoparticles covering NiS2 nanosheets electrodes adjusts the electrodes' structure and then reduces the series resistance (Rs) and the Nernst diffusion resistance (Zw) of counter electrodes. The improvement of these areas greatly enhances the electrocatalytic performance of CEs and the short circuit current density (Jsc) and Fill factor (FF) of DSSCs. Impressively, the DSSC based on NiS2/CoS2-0.1 CE shows the best photovoltaic performance with photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 8.22%, which is 24.36% higher than that (6.61%) of the DSSC with Pt CE. And the NiS2/CoS2-0.1 CE also displays a good stability in the iodine based electrolyte. This work indicates that rational construction of composite electrocatalytic materials paves an avenue for high-performance counter electrodes of DSSCs.

Skeleton/skin structured (RGO/CNTs)@PANI composite fiber electrodes with excellent mechanical and electrochemical performance for all-solid-state symmetric supercapacitors.

PubMed

Liu, Dong; Du, Pengcheng; Wei, Wenli; Wang, Hongxing; Wang, Qi; Liu, Peng

2018-03-01

Polyaniline coated reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanotube composite fibers ((RGO/CNTs)@PANI, RCP) with skeleton/skin structure are designed as fiber-shaped electrodes for high performance all-solid-state symmetric supercapacitor. The one-dimensional reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanotube composite fibers (RGO/CNTs, RC) are prepared via a simple in-situ reduction of graphene oxide in presence of carbon nanotubes in quartz glass pipes, which exhibit excellent mechanical performance of >193.4 MPa of tensile strength. Then polyaniline is coated onto the RC fibers by electrodepositing technique. The electrochemical properties of the RCP fiber-shaped electrodes are optimized by adjusting the feeding ratio of carbon nanotubes. The optimized one exhibits good electrochemical characteristic such as highest volumetric specific capacitance of 193.1 F cm -3 at 1 A cm -3 , as well as excellent cyclic retention of 92.60% after 2000 cyclic voltammetry cycles. Furthermore, the all-solid-state symmetric supercapacitor, fabricated by using the final composite fiber as both positive and negative electrodes pre-coated with the poly(vinyl alcohol)/H 2 SO 4 gel polyelectrolyte, possesses volumetric capacitance of 36.7 F cm -3 at 0.2 A cm -3 and could light up a red light-emitting diode easily. The excellent mechanical and electrochemical performances make the designed supercapacitor as promising high performance wearable energy storage device. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of a smart air intake structure using shape memory alloy wire embedded composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Beom-Seok; Kim, Min-Saeng; Kim, Ji-Soo; Kim, Yun-Mi; Lee, Woo-Yong; Ahn, Sung-Hoon

2010-05-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) have been actively studied in many fields utilizing their high energy density. Applying SMA wire-embedded composite to aerospace structures, such as air intake of jet engines and guided missiles, is attracting significant attention because it could generate a comparatively large actuating force. In this research, a scaled structure of SMA wire-embedded composite was fabricated for the air intake of aircraft. The structure was composed of several prestrained Nitinol (Ni-Ti) SMA wires embedded in ∩-shape glass fabric reinforced plastic (GFRP), and it was cured at room temperature for 72 h. The SMA wire-embedded GFRP could be actuated by applying electric current through the embedded SMA wires. The activation angle generated from the composite structure was large enough to make a smart air intake structure.

Perovskite electrodes and method of making the same

DOEpatents

Seabaugh, Matthew M [Columbus, OH; Swartz, Scott L [Columbus, OH

2009-09-22

The invention relates to perovskite oxide electrode materials in which one or more of the elements Mg, Ni, Cu, and Zn are present as minority components that enhance electrochemical performance, as well as electrode products with these compositions and methods of making the electrode materials. Such electrodes are useful in electrochemical system applications such as solid oxide fuel cells, ceramic oxygen generation systems, gas sensors, ceramic membrane reactors, and ceramic electrochemical gas separation systems.

Perovskite electrodes and method of making the same

DOEpatents

Seabaugh, Matthew M.; Swartz, Scott L.

2005-09-20

The invention relates to perovskite oxide electrode materials in which one or more of the elements Mg, Ni, Cu, and Zn are present as minority components that enhance electrochemical performance, as well as electrode products with these compositions and methods of making the electrode materials. Such electrodes are useful in electrochemical system applications such as solid oxide fuel cells, ceramic oxygen generation systems, gas sensors, ceramic membrane reactors, and ceramic electrochemical gas separation systems.

A Palladium-Tin Modified Microband Electrode Array for Nitrate Determination

PubMed Central

Fu, Yexiang; Bian, Chao; Kuang, Jian; Wang, Jinfen; Tong, Jianhua; Xia, Shanhong

2015-01-01

A microband electrode array modified with palladium-tin bimetallic composite has been developed for nitrate determination. The microband electrode array was fabricated by Micro Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) technique. Palladium and tin were electrodeposited successively on the electrode, forming a double-layer structure. The effect of the Pd-Sn composite was investigated and its enhancement of catalytic activity and lifetime was revealed. The Pd-Sn modified electrode showed good linearity (R2 = 0.998) from 1 mg/L to 20 mg/L for nitrate determination with a sensitivity of 398 μA/(mg∙L−1∙cm2). The electrode exhibited a satisfying analytical performance after 60 days of storage, indicating a long lifetime. Good repeatability was also displayed by the Pd-Sn modified electrodes. The results provided an option for nitrate determination in water. PMID:26389904

Sulfur tolerant composite cermet electrodes for solid oxide electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Isenberg, Arnold O.

1987-01-01

An electrochemical apparatus is made containing an exterior electrode bonded to the exterior of a tubular, solid, oxygen ion conducting electrolyte where the electrolyte is also in contact with an interior electrode, said exterior electrode comprising particles of an electronic conductor contacting the electrolyte, where a ceramic metal oxide coating partially surrounds the particles and is bonded to the electrolyte, and where a coating of an ionic-electronic conductive material is attached to the ceramic metal oxide coating and to the exposed portions of the particles.

Bonding to new CAD/CAM resin composites: influence of air abrasion and conditioning agents as pretreatment strategy.

PubMed

Reymus, Marcel; Roos, Malgorzata; Eichberger, Marlis; Edelhoff, Daniel; Hickel, Reinhard; Stawarczyk, Bogna

2018-04-27

Because of their industrially standardized process of manufacturing, CAD/CAM resin composites show a high degree of conversion, making a reliable bond difficult to achieve. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the tensile bond strength (TBS) of luting composite to CAD/CAM resin composite materials as influenced by air abrasion and pretreatment strategies. The treatment factors of the present study were (1) brand of the CAD/CAM resin composite (Brilliant Crios [Coltene/Whaledent], Cerasmart [GC Europe], Shofu Block HC [Shofu], and Lava Ultimate [3M]); (2) air abrasion vs. no air abrasion; and (3) pretreatment using a silane primer (Clearfil Ceramic Primer, Kuraray) vs. a resin primer (One Coat 7 Universal, Coltene/Whaledent). Subsequently, luting composite (DuoCem, Coltene/Whaledent) was polymerized onto the substrate surface using a mold. For each combination of the levels of the three treatment factors (4 (materials) × 2 (air abrasion vs. no air abrasion; resin) × 2 (primer vs. silane primer)), n = 15, specimens were prepared. After 24 h of water storage at 37 °C and 5000 thermo-cycles (5/55 °C), TBS was measured and failure types were examined. The resulting data was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier estimates of the cumulative failure distribution function with Breslow-Gehan tests and non-parametric ANOVA (Kruskal-Wallis test) followed by the multiple pairwise Mann-Whitney U test with α-error adjustment using the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure and chi-square test (p < 0.05). The additional air abrasion step increased TBS values and lowered failure rates. Specimens pretreated using a resin primer showed significantly higher TBS and lower failure rates than those pretreated using a silane primer. The highest failure rates were observed for groups pretreated with a silane primer. Within the Shofu Block HC group, all specimens without air abrasion and pretreatment with a silane primer debonded during the aging procedure. Before fixation of CAD

Graphene nanocomposites for electrochemical cell electrodes

DOEpatents

Zhamu, Aruna; Jang, Bor Z.; Shi, Jinjun

2015-11-19

A composite composition for electrochemical cell electrode applications, the composition comprising multiple solid particles, wherein (a) a solid particle is composed of graphene platelets dispersed in or bonded by a first matrix or binder material, wherein the graphene platelets are not obtained from graphitization of the first binder or matrix material; (b) the graphene platelets have a length or width in the range of 10 nm to 10 .mu.m; (c) the multiple solid particles are bonded by a second binder material; and (d) the first or second binder material is selected from a polymer, polymeric carbon, amorphous carbon, metal, glass, ceramic, oxide, organic material, or a combination thereof. For a lithium ion battery anode application, the first binder or matrix material is preferably amorphous carbon or polymeric carbon. Such a composite composition provides a high anode capacity and good cycling response. For a supercapacitor electrode application, the solid particles preferably have meso-scale pores therein to accommodate electrolyte.

Sulfur Embedded in a Mesoporous Carbon Nanotube Network as a Binder-Free Electrode for High-Performance Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

PubMed

Sun, Li; Wang, Datao; Luo, Yufeng; Wang, Ke; Kong, Weibang; Wu, Yang; Zhang, Lina; Jiang, Kaili; Li, Qunqing; Zhang, Yihe; Wang, Jiaping; Fan, Shoushan

2016-01-26

Sulfur-porous carbon nanotube (S-PCNT) composites are proposed as cathode materials for advanced lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. Abundant mesopores are introduced to superaligned carbon nanotubes (SACNTs) through controlled oxidation in air to obtain porous carbon nanotubes (PCNTs). Compared to original SACNTs, improved dispersive behavior, enhanced conductivity, and higher mechanical strength are demonstrated in PCNTs. Meanwhile, high flexibility and sufficient intertube interaction are preserved in PCNTs to support binder-free and flexible electrodes. Additionally, several attractive features, including high surface area and abundant adsorption points on tubes, are introduced, which allow high sulfur loading, provide dual protection to sulfur cathode materials, and consequently alleviate the capacity fade especially during slow charge/discharge processes. When used as cathodes for Li-S batteries, a high sulfur loading of 60 wt % is achieved, with excellent reversible capacities of 866 and 526 mAh g(-1) based on the weights of sulfur and electrode, respectively, after 100 cycles at a slow charge/discharge rate of 0.1C, revealing efficient suppression of polysulfide dissolution. Even with a high sulfur loading of 70 wt %, the S-PCNT composite maintains capacities of 760 and 528 mAh g(-1) based on the weights of sulfur and electrode, respectively, after 100 cycles at 0.1C, outperforming the current state-of-the-art sulfur cathodes. Improved high-rate capability is also delivered by the S-PCNT composites, revealing their potentials as high-performance carbon-sulfur composite cathodes for Li-S batteries.

Electrode for a lithium cell

DOEpatents

Thackeray, Michael M [Naperville, IL; Vaughey, John T [Elmhurst, IL; Dees, Dennis W [Downers Grove, IL

2008-10-14

This invention relates to a positive electrode for an electrochemical cell or battery, and to an electrochemical cell or battery; the invention relates more specifically to a positive electrode for a non-aqueous lithium cell or battery when the electrode is used therein. The positive electrode includes a composite metal oxide containing AgV.sub.3O.sub.8 as one component and one or more other components consisting of LiV.sub.3O.sub.8, Ag.sub.2V.sub.4O.sub.11, MnO.sub.2, CF.sub.x, AgF or Ag.sub.2O to increase the energy density of the cell, optionally in the presence of silver powder and/or silver foil to assist in current collection at the electrode and to improve the power capability of the cell or battery.

Preparation and characterization of flexible lithium iron phosphate/graphene/cellulose electrode for lithium ion batteries.

PubMed

Wang, Yan; He, Zhen-Yu; Wang, Yao-Xuan; Fan, Cong; Liu, Chen-Ren-Lang; Peng, Qi-Ling; Chen, Jin-Ju; Feng, Zhe-Sheng

2018-02-15

In this work, a free-standing flexible composite electrode was prepared by vacuum filtration method with LiFePO 4 , graphene and nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC). Compared with the pure LiFePO 4 electrode, the resulting flexible composite (LiFePO 4 /graphene/NFC) electrode showed excellent mechanical flexibility, and possessed an enhanced initial discharge capacity of 151 mA h/g (0.1 C) and a good capacity retention rate with only 5% loss after 60 cycles due to suitable electrolyte wettability at the interface. Furthermore, the NFC and graphene formed a three-dimensional conductive framework, which provided high-speed electron conduction in the composite and reduced electrode polarization during charging-discharging processes. Moreover, the composite electrode could endure bending tests up to 1000 times, highlighting preferable mechanical strength and durability. These results demonstrated that the as-fabricated electrodes could be applied as flexible electrodes with an embedded power supply. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reinforced Plastic Composites Production: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

National emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants for reinforced plastic composites production facilities. Regulates production and ancillary processes used to manufacture products with thermoset resins and gel coats.

Frequency dependence of electrical properties of polyvinylidene fluoride/graphite electrode waste/natural carbon black composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Insiyanda, D. R.; Indayaningsih, N.; Prihandoko, B.; Subhan, A.; Khaerudini, D. S.; Widodo, H.; Destyorini, F.; Chaer, A.

2018-03-01

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic material with remarkably high piezoelectric coefficient and an attractive polymer matrix for micro-composite with superior mechanical and electrical properties. The conductive filler is obtained from Graphite Electrode Waste (GEW) and Natural Carbon Black (NCB). The variation of composite content (%) of PVdF/NCB/GEW were 100/0/0, 95/5/0, 95/0/5, 95/2.5/2.5. This experiment employed dry dispersion method for material mixing. The materials were then moulded using hot press machine with compression parameters of P = 5.5 MPa, T = 150 °C, t = 60 minutes, A = 5×5×(0.2 - 0.4) cm3. The electrical conductivity properties of pure PVdF, as well as PVdF/GEW, PVdF/NCB, and PVdF/NCB/GEW composites were investigated in a frequency range of 100 to 100000 Hz. The PVdF/GEW sample obtained the highest electrical conductivity. It is concluded that GEW and NCB can be incorporated into PVdF as a conductive filler to increase the conductivity of conductive material composite without solvent.

Investigation of the effects of shear on arc-electrode erosion using a modified arc-electrode mass loss model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Webb, Bryan T.

The electrodes are the attachment points for an electric arc where electrons and positive ions enter and leave the gas, creating a flow of current. Electrons enter the gas at the cathode and are removed at the anode. Electrons then flow out through the leads on the anode and are replenished from the power supply through the leads on the cathode. Electric arc attachment to the electrode surface causes intensive heating and subsequent melting and vaporization. At that point a multitude of factors can contribute to mass loss, to include vaporization (boiling), material removal via shear forces, chemical reactions, evaporation, and ejection of material in jets due to pressure effects. If these factors were more thoroughly understood and could be modeled, this knowledge would guide the development of an electrode design with minimal erosion. An analytic model was developed by a previous researcher that models mass loss by melting, evaporation and boiling with a moving arc attachment point. This pseudo one-dimensional model includes surface heat flux in periodic cycles of heating and cooling to model motion of a spinning arc in an annular electrode where the arc periodically returns to the same spot. This model, however, does not account for removal of material due to shear or pressure induced effects, or the effects of chemical reactions. As a result of this, the model under-predicts material removal by about 50%. High velocity air flowing over an electrode will result in a shear force which has the potential to remove molten material as the arc melts the surface on its path around the electrode. In order to study the effects of shear on mass loss rate, the model from this previous investigator has been altered to include this mass loss mechanism. The results of this study have shown that shear is a viable mechanism for mass loss in electrodes and can account for the mismatch between theoretical and experimental rates determined by previous investigators. The results of

Electrode Nanostructures in Lithium-Based Batteries.

PubMed

Mahmood, Nasir; Hou, Yanglong

2014-12-01

Lithium-based batteries possessing energy densities much higher than those of the conventional batteries belong to the most promising class of future energy devices. However, there are some fundamental issues related to their electrodes which are big roadblocks in their applications to electric vehicles (EVs). Nanochemistry has advantageous roles to overcome these problems by defining new nanostructures of electrode materials. This review article will highlight the challenges associated with these chemistries both to bring high performance and longevity upon considering the working principles of the various types of lithium-based (Li-ion, Li-air and Li-S) batteries. Further, the review discusses the advantages and challenges of nanomaterials in nanostructured electrodes of lithium-based batteries, concerns with lithium metal anode and the recent advancement in electrode nanostructures.

FINAL REPORT: Transformational electrode drying process

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Claus Daniel, C.; Wixom, M.

2013-12-19

This report includes major findings and outlook from the transformational electrode drying project performance period from January 6, 2012 to August 1, 2012. Electrode drying before cell assembly is an operational bottleneck in battery manufacturing due to long drying times and batch processing. Water taken up during shipment and other manufacturing steps needs to be removed before final battery assembly. Conventional vacuum ovens are limited in drying speed due to a temperature threshold needed to avoid damaging polymer components in the composite electrode. Roll to roll operation and alternative treatments can increase the water desorption and removal rate without overheatingmore » and damaging other components in the composite electrode, thus considerably reducing drying time and energy use. The objective of this project was the development of an electrode drying procedure, and the demonstration of processes with no decrease in battery performance. The benchmark for all drying data was an 80°C vacuum furnace treatment with a residence time of 18 – 22 hours. This report demonstrates an alternative roll to roll drying process with a 500-fold improvement in drying time down to 2 minutes and consumption of only 30% of the energy compared to vacuum furnace treatment.« less

Enhanced Performance of non-PGM Catalysts in Air Operated PEM-Fuel Cells

DOE PAGES

Barkholtz, Heather M.; Chong, Lina; Kaiser, Zachary Brian; ...

2016-10-13

Here a non-platinum group metal (non-PGM) oxygen reduction catalyst was prepared from “support-free” zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) precursor and tested in the proton exchange membrane fuel cell with air as the cathode feed. The iron nitrogen and carbon composite (FeeNeC) based catalyst has high specific surface area decorated uniformly with active sites, which redefines the triple phase boundary (TPB) and requires re-optimization of the cathodic membrane electrode fabrication to ensure efficient mass and charge transports to the catalyst surface. This study reports an effort in optimizing catalytic ink formulation for the membrane electrode preparation and its impact to the fuelmore » cell performance under air. Through optimization, the fuel cell areal current density as high as 115.2 mA/cm 2 at 0.8 V or 147.6 mA/cm 2 at 0.8 V iR-free has been achieved under one bar air. We also investigated impacts on fuel cell internal impedance and the water formation.« less

Hardness and wear analysis of Cu/Al2O3 composite for application in EDM electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, M. Z.; Khan, U.; Jangid, R.; Khan, S.

2018-02-01

Ceramic materials, like Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3), have high mechanical strength, high wear resistance, high temperature resistance and good chemical durability. Powder metallurgy processing is an adaptable method commonly used to fabricate composites because it is a simple method of composite preparation and has high efficiency in dispersing fine ceramic particles. In this research copper and novel material aluminium oxide/copper (Al2O3/Cu) composite has been fabricated for the application of electrode in Electro-Discharge Machine (EDM) using powder metallurgy technique. Al2O3 particles with different weight percentages (0, 1%, 3% and 5%) were reinforced into copper matrix using powder metallurgy technique. The powders were blended and compacted at a load of 100MPa to produce green compacts and sintered at a temperature of 574 °C. The effect of aluminium oxide content on mass density, Rockwell hardness and wear behaviour were investigated. Wear behaviour of the composites was investigated on Die-Sink EDM (Electro-Discharge Machine). It was found that wear rate is highly depending on hardness, mass density and green protective carbonate layer formation at the surface of the composite.

The Role of Air-Electrode Structure on the Incorporation of Immiscible PFCs in Nonaqueous Li-O2 Battery.

PubMed

Balaish, Moran; Ein-Eli, Yair

2017-03-22

Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are considered advantageous additives to nonaqueous Li-O 2 battery due to their superior oxygen solubility and diffusivity compared to common battery electrolytes. Up to now, the main focus was concentrated on PFCs-electrolyte investigation; however, no special attention was granted to the role of carbon structure in the PFCs-Li-O 2 system. In our current research, immiscible PFCs, rather than miscible fluorinated ethers, were added to activated carbon class air electrode due to their higher susceptibility toward O 2 •- attack and to their ability to shift the reaction from two-phase to an artificial three-phase reaction zone. The results showed superior battery performance upon PFCs addition at lower current density (0.05 mA cm -2 ) but unexpectedly failed to do so at higher current density (0.1 and 0.2 mA cm -2 ), where oxygen transport limitation is best illustrated. The last was a direct result of liquid-liquid displacement phenomenon occurring when the two immiscible liquids were introduced into the porous carbon medium. The investigation and role of carbon structure on the mechanism upon PFCs addition to Li-O 2 system are suggested based on electrochemical characterization, wettability behavior studies, and the physical adsorption technique. Finally, we suggest an optimum air-electrode structure enabling the incorporation of immiscible PFCs in a nonaqueous Li-O 2 battery.

Hierarchical composites of polyaniline-graphene nanoribbons-carbon nanotubes as electrode materials in all-solid-state supercapacitors.

PubMed

Liu, Mingkai; Miao, Yue-E; Zhang, Chao; Tjiu, Weng Weei; Yang, Zhibin; Peng, Huisheng; Liu, Tianxi

2013-08-21

A three dimensional (3D) polyaniline (PANI)-graphene nanoribbon (GNR)-carbon nanotube (CNT) composite, PANI-GNR-CNT, has been prepared via in situ polymerization of an aniline monomer on the surface of a GNR-CNT hybrid. Here, the 3D GNR-CNT hybrid has been conveniently prepared by partially unzipping the pristine multi-walled CNTs, while the residual CNTs act as "bridges" connecting different GNRs. The morphology and structure of the resulting hybrid materials have been characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical tests reveal that the hierarchical PANI-GNR-CNT composite based on the two-electrode cell possesses much higher specific capacitance (890 F g(-1)) than the GNR-CNT hybrid (195 F g(-1)) and neat PANI (283 F g(-1)) at a discharge current density of 0.5 A g(-1). At the same time, the PANI-GNR-CNT composite displays good cycling stability with a retention ratio of 89% after 1000 cycles, suggesting that this novel PANI-GNR-CNT composite is a promising candidate for energy storage applications.

Hierarchical composites of polyaniline-graphene nanoribbons-carbon nanotubes as electrode materials in all-solid-state supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Mingkai; Miao, Yue-E.; Zhang, Chao; Tjiu, Weng Weei; Yang, Zhibin; Peng, Huisheng; Liu, Tianxi

2013-07-01

A three dimensional (3D) polyaniline (PANI)-graphene nanoribbon (GNR)-carbon nanotube (CNT) composite, PANI-GNR-CNT, has been prepared via in situ polymerization of an aniline monomer on the surface of a GNR-CNT hybrid. Here, the 3D GNR-CNT hybrid has been conveniently prepared by partially unzipping the pristine multi-walled CNTs, while the residual CNTs act as ``bridges'' connecting different GNRs. The morphology and structure of the resulting hybrid materials have been characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical tests reveal that the hierarchical PANI-GNR-CNT composite based on the two-electrode cell possesses much higher specific capacitance (890 F g-1) than the GNR-CNT hybrid (195 F g-1) and neat PANI (283 F g-1) at a discharge current density of 0.5 A g-1. At the same time, the PANI-GNR-CNT composite displays good cycling stability with a retention ratio of 89% after 1000 cycles, suggesting that this novel PANI-GNR-CNT composite is a promising candidate for energy storage applications.

Synthesis of honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanoparticles/graphene composites as electrode materials for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiong, Yachao; Zhou, Min; Chen, Hao; Feng, Lei; Wang, Zhao; Yan, Xinzhu; Guan, Shiyou

2015-12-01

Improving the electrochemical performance of manganese dioxide (MnO2) electrodes is of great significance for supercapacitors. In this study, a novel honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanoparticles/graphene composites has been fabricated through freeze-drying method. The honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres are well inserted and dispersed on the graphene. Carbon nanoparticles in the composites act as spacers to effectively prevent graphene from restacking and agglomeration, construct efficient 3D conducting architecture with graphene for honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres, and alleviate the aggregation of honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres by separating them from each other. As a result, such honeycomb MnO2 nanospheres/carbon nanoparticles/graphene composites display much improved electrochemical capacitive performance of 255 F g-1 at a current density of 0.5 A g-1, outstanding rate capability (150 F g-1 remained at a current density of 20 A g-1) and good cycling stability (83% of the initial capacitance retained after 1000 charge/discharge cycles). The strategy for the synthesis of these composites is very effective.

High performance positive electrode for a lead-acid battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kao, Wen-Hong (Inventor); Bullock, Norma K. (Inventor); Petersen, Ralph A. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

An electrode suitable for use as a lead-acid battery plate is formed of a paste composition which enhances the performance of the plate. The paste composition includes a basic lead sulfate, a persulfate and water. The paste may also include lead oxide and fibers. An electrode according to the invention is characterized by good strength in combination with high power density, porosity and surface area.

Method of preparing an electrode material of lithium-aluminum alloy

DOEpatents

Settle, Jack L.; Myles, Kevin M.; Battles, James E.

1976-01-01

A solid compact having a uniform alloy composition of lithium and aluminum is prepared as a negative electrode for an electrochemical cell. Lithium losses during preparation are minimized by dissolving aluminum within a lithium-rich melt at temperatures near the liquidus temperatures. The desired alloy composition is then solidified and fragmented. The fragments are homogenized to a uniform composition by annealing at a temperature near the solidus temperature. After comminuting to fine particles, the alloy material can be blended with powdered electrolyte and pressed into a solid compact having the desired electrode shape. In the preparation of some electrodes, an electrically conductive metal mesh is embedded into the compact as a current collector.

N-Doped graphene/PEDOT composite films as counter electrodes in DSSCs: Unveiling the mechanism of electrocatalytic activity enhancement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paterakis, Georgios; Raptis, Dimitrios; Ploumistos, Alexandros; Belekoukia, Meltiani; Sygellou, Lamprini; Ramasamy, Madeshwaran Sekkarapatti; Lianos, Panagiotis; Tasis, Dimitrios

2017-11-01

A composite film was obtained by layer deposition of N-doped graphene and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and was used as Pt-free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells. N-doping of graphene was achieved by annealing mixtures of graphene oxide with urea. Various parameters concerning the treatment of graphene oxide-urea mixtures were monitored in order to optimize the electrocatalytic activity in the final solar cell device. These include the mass ratio of components, the annealing temperature, the starting concentration of the mixture in aqueous solution and the spinning rate for film formation. PEDOT was applied by electrodeposition. The homogeneity of PEDOT coverage onto either untreated or thermally annealed graphene oxide-urea film was assessed by imaging (AFM/SEM) and surface techniques (XPS). It was found that PEDOT was deposited in the form of island structures onto untreated graphene oxide-urea film. On the contrary, the annealed film was homogeneously covered by the polymer, acquiring morphology of decreased roughness. An apparent chemical interaction between PEDOT and N-doped graphene flakes was revealed by XPS data, involving potential grafting of PEDOT chains onto graphitic lattice through Csbnd C bonding. In addition, diffusion of nitrogen-containing fragments within the PEDOT layer was found to take place during electrodeposition process, resulting in enhanced interfacial interactions between components. The solar cell with the optimized N-doped graphene/PEDOT composite counter electrode exhibited a power conversion efficiency (η) of 7.1%, comparable within experimental error to that obtained by using a reference Pt counter electrode, which showed a value of 7.0%.

Determination of arbutin and bergenin in Bergeniae Rhizoma by capillary electrophoresis with a carbon nanotube-epoxy composite electrode.

PubMed

Zhang, Luyan; Zhang, Wei; Chen, Gang

2015-11-10

This report describes the fabrication and the application of a novel carbon nanotube (CNT)-epoxy composite electrode as a sensitive amperometric detector for the capillary electrophoresis (CE). The composite electrode was fabricated on the basis of the in situ polycondensation of a mixture of CNTs and 1,2-ethanediamine-containing bisphenol A epoxy resin in the inner bore of a piece of fused silica capillary under heat. It was coupled with CE for the separation and detection of arbutin and bergenin in Bergeniae Rhizoma, a traditional Chinese medicine, to demonstrate its feasibility and performance. The two phenolic constituents were well separated within 10min in a 45cm capillary length at a separation voltage of 12kV using a 50mM borate buffer (pH 9.2). The CNT-based detector offered higher sensitivity, significantly lower operating potential, satisfactory resistance to surface fouling, and lower expense of operation, indicating great promise for a wide range of analytical applications. It showed long-term stability and reproducibility with relative standard deviations of less than 5% for the peak current (n=15). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

One-step synthesis of Nickle Iron-layered double hydroxide/reduced graphene oxide/carbon nanofibres composite as electrode materials for asymmetric supercapacitor.

PubMed

Wang, Feifei; Wang, Ting; Sun, Shiguo; Xu, Yongqian; Yu, Ruijin; Li, Hongjuan

2018-06-11

A novel NiFe-LDH/RGO/CNFs composite was produced by using a facile one-step hydrothermal method as electrode for supercapacitor. Compared with NiFe-LDH/CNFs, NiFe-LDH/CNTs and NiFe-LDH/RGO, NiFe-LDH/RGO/CNFs demonstrated a high specific capacitance of 1330.2 F g -1 at 1 A g -1 and a super rate capability of 64.2% from 1 to 20 A g -1 , indicating great potential for supercapacitor application. Additionally, an asymmetric supercapacitor using NiFe-LDH/RGO/CNFs composite as positive electrode material and activated carbon as negative electrode material was assembled. The asymmetric supercapacitor can work in the voltage range of 0-1.57 V. It displayed high energy density of 33.7 W h kg -1 at power density of 785.8 W kg -1 and excellent cycling stability with 97.1% of the initial capacitance after 2500 cycles at 8 A g -1 . Two flexible AC//LDH-RGO-CNFs ASC devices connected in series were able to light up a red LED indicator after being fully charged. The results demonstrate that the AC//LDH-RGO-CNFs ASC has a promising potential in commercial application.

Micromachined 1-3 composites for ultrasonic air transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haller, M. I.; Khuri-Yakub, B. T.

1994-06-01

Airborne ultrasound has many applications, such as robotic sensing, NDE, and gas flow measurements. Coupling of ultrasound into air from plane piston piezoelectric transducers is inefficient because of the large impedance mismatch between the piezoelectric and air, and the lack of appropriate matching materials. Standard design practice requires the use of a matching layer material with an acoustic impedance of approximately 0.02 MRayls and a thickness of a quarter-wavelength. Such materials are not readily available. A method to manufacture low impedance materials using micromachining techniques for matching piezoelectrics into air are presented here. These materials are capped 1-3 composites of air and Kapton(R). The acoustic effect of the cap is significant and necessitates a modified design technique. This technique involves the use of two matching layers with inverted acoustic impedances. Using the new fabrication technology and the new design technique, an 860-kHz transducer was fabricated with a one-way insertion loss of 17 dB and a fractional 3 dB bandwidth of 6%. It is believed that, using this technology, a transducer with a one-way insertion loss of 10 dB and a fractional bandwidth of 10% is possible.

Biomass transition metal hydrogen-evolution electrocatalysts and electrodes

DOEpatents

Chen, Wei-Fu; Iyer, Shweta; Iyer, Shilpa; Sasaki, Kotaro; Muckerman, James T.; Fujita, Etsuko

2017-02-28

A catalytic composition from earth-abundant transition metal salts and biomass is disclosed. A calcined catalytic composition formed from soybean powder and ammonium molybdate is specifically exemplified herein. Methods for making the catalytic composition are disclosed as are electrodes for hydrogen evolution reactions comprising the catalytic composition.

Spinal cord electrophysiology II: extracellular suction electrode fabrication.

PubMed

Garudadri, Suresh; Gallarda, Benjamin; Pfaff, Samuel; Alaynick, William

2011-02-20

Development of neural circuitries and locomotion can be studied using neonatal rodent spinal cord central pattern generator (CPG) behavior. We demonstrate a method to fabricate suction electrodes that are used to examine CPG activity, or fictive locomotion, in dissected rodent spinal cords. The rodent spinal cords are placed in artificial cerebrospinal fluid and the ventral roots are drawn into the suction electrode. The electrode is constructed by modifying a commercially available suction electrode. A heavier silver wire is used instead of the standard wire given by the commercially available electrode. The glass tip on the commercial electrode is replaced with a plastic tip for increased durability. We prepare hand drawn electrodes and electrodes made from specific sizes of tubing, allowing consistency and reproducibility. Data is collected using an amplifier and neurogram acquisition software. Recordings are performed on an air table within a Faraday cage to prevent mechanical and electrical interference, respectively.

Mesoporous composite nickel cobalt oxide/graphene oxide synthesized via a template-assistant co-precipitation route as electrode material for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Yanjie; Wang, Lincai; Cao, Peiqi; Cai, Chuanlin; Fu, Yanbao; Ma, Xiaohua

2016-02-01

A simple co-precipitation method utilizing SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate) as template and ammonia as precipitant is successfully employed to synthesize nickel cobalt oxide/graphene oxide (NiCo2O4/GO) composite. The as-prepared composite (NCG-10) exhibits a high capacitance of 1211.25 F g-1, 687 F g-1 at the current density of 1 A g-1, 10 A g-1 and good cycling ability which renders NCG-10 as promising electrode material for supercapacitors. An asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) (full button cell) has been constructed with NCG-10 as positive electrode and lab-made reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as negative electrode. The fabricated NCG-10//rGO with an extended stable operational voltage of 1.6 V can deliver a high specific capacitance of 144.45 F g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1. The as-prepared NCG-10//rGO demonstrates remarkable energy density (51.36 W h kg-1 at 1 A g-1), high power density (50 kW kg-1 at 20 A g-1). The retention of capacitance is 88.6% at the current density of 8 A g-1 after 2000 cycles. The enhanced capacitive performance can be attributed to the improved specific surface area and 3D open area of NCG-10 generated by the pores and channels with the substantial function of SDS.

Air and ground resonance of helicopters with elastically tailored composite rotor blades

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Edward C.; Chopra, Inderjit

1993-01-01

The aeromechanical stability, including air resonance in hover, air resonance in forward flight, and ground resonance, of a helicopter with elastically tailored composite rotor blades is investigated. Five soft-inplane hingeless rotor configurations, featuring elastic pitch-lag, pitch-flap and extension-torsion couplings, are analyzed. Elastic couplings introduced through tailored composite blade spars can have a powerful effect on both air and ground resonance behavior. Elastic pitch-flap couplings (positive and negative) strongly affect body, rotor and dynamic inflow modes. Air resonance stability is diminished by elastic pitch-flap couplings in hover and forwrad flight. Negative pitch-lag elastic coupling has a stabilizing effect on the regressive lag mode in hover and forward flight. The negative pitch-lag coupling has a detrimental effect on ground resonance stability. Extension-torsion elastic coupling (blade pitch decreases due to tension) decreases regressive lag mode stability in both airborne and ground contact conditions. Increasing thrust levels has a beneficial influence on ground resonance stability for rotors with pitch-flap and extension-torsion coupling and is only marginally effective in improving stability of rotors with pitch-lag coupling.

Assessing the degradation of compliant electrodes for soft actuators.

PubMed

Rosset, Samuel; de Saint-Aubin, Christine; Poulin, Alexandre; Shea, Herbert R

2017-10-01

We present an automated system to measure the degradation of compliant electrodes used in dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) over millions of cycles. Electrodes for DEAs generally experience biaxial linear strains of more than 10%. The decrease in electrode conductivity induced by this repeated fast mechanical deformation impacts the bandwidth of the actuator and its strain homogeneity. Changes in the electrode mechanical properties lead to reduced actuation strain. Rather than using an external actuator to periodically deform the electrodes, our measurement method consists of measuring the properties of an electrode in an expanding circle DEA. A programmable high voltage power supply drives the actuator with a square signal up to 1 kHz, periodically actuating the DEA, and thus stretching the electrodes. The DEA strain is monitored with a universal serial bus camera, while the resistance of the ground electrode is measured with a multimeter. The system can be used for any type of electrode. We validated the test setup by characterising a carbon black/silicone composite that we commonly use as compliant electrode. Although the composite is well-suited for tens of millions of cycles of actuation below 5%, we observe important degradation for higher deformations. When activated at a 20% radial strain, the electrodes suffer from important damage after a few thousand cycles, and an inhomogeneous actuation is observed, with the strain localised in a sub-region of the actuator only.

Assessing the degradation of compliant electrodes for soft actuators