Development of Cost-Effective, Bespoke Tailored Ternary Nanoparticles as Catalysts for Lithium-Air Batteries

Lithium-air batteries, known for their exceptionally high theoretical energy density, have emerged as potential energy storage systems capable of replacing gasoline. However, their practical application is hindered by the challenging complete decomposition of insulating Li₂O₂ formed during the charge-discharge cycle. To overcome this, it is common to utilize precious metal catalysts such as iridium (Ir) and ruthenium (Ru), known for their high catalytic activity. Nevertheless, the scarcity and high cost of these precious metal catalysts pose significant barriers for commercial use. Hence, various research groups are striving to achieve high catalytic efficiency using non-precious metals. Metal oxides, in particular, have emerged as a versatile family of non-precious catalysts. They are favored for their intrinsic oxidation resistance, comparative stability, ease of synthesis and control, as well as the abundance of compositional and structural varieties.<br/>In this study, we aim to explore the use of abundant, economically viable non-precious metals, specifically cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and iron (Fe), in lithium-air batteries. Our approach involves adjusting the composition ratios of these metals to assess their relative catalytic efficiencies. Our research further includes: i) producing bespoke tailored ternary metal oxide nanoparticles from Co, Ni, and Fe using a rapid thermal process, ii) incorporating these nanoparticles onto a lightweight, porous, and highly conductive carbon nanofiber-based cathode for use in lithium-air batteries, and iii) assessing the potential for large-scale air battery production via surface optimization of carbon nanofibers integrated with these bespoke tailored ternary nanoparticles and the fabrication of pouch cells.