Holey graphene is a structural derivative of graphene with arrays of through-plane holes, rendering physical and chemical properties that are not attainable with intact graphene. This material has recently received significant attention for applications in sensors, catalysis, separation membranes, and energy storage. In this presentation, we will discuss our recent findings on using holey graphene as a versatile and high performance air cathode platform for lithium “air” batteries, including both lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) and lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO2) batteries. These two types of batteries utilize the electrochemical reactions between Li and the respective gaseous reactant that may be unlimitedly obtained from external atmosphere (“air”), thus providing significant weight advantage in energy density in comparison to conventional lithium-based batteries with closed systems. For NASA applications, high energy density Li-O2 batteries may enable future electric aircrafts, while Li-CO2 batteries can potentially be used for surface exploration on Mars by utilizing CO2 that comprises 96% of the Martian atmosphere. Herein, the preparation, processing, and electrochemical performance of high mass loading (5 – 10 mg/cm2) air cathodes, enabled by the unique compressibility and moldability of the powdery holey graphene material, were investigated in detail. The high mass loading air cathodes led to high areal capacity of the battery systems approaching requirements for practical applications. The use of catalyst additives in the air cathode architecture and redox mediator additives in the electrolyte further enhanced the rechargeability and cyclability of the batteries.

Holey graphene air cathodes for high capacity rechargeable lithium air batteries

256th National Meeting (2018)

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