(507d) Bioinspired Nanocomposites for Next Generation Batteries

Bioinspired nanocomposites have been widely investigated to address challenges in next-generation energy storage applications, specifically beyond lithium-ion battery chemistries. The high theoretical specific energy density (2600Wh/kg) and high specific capacity (1675mA/g), along with the natural abundance and low toxicity of sulfur, have been attracting significant attention for the development of an alternative battery system to replace traditional lithium-ion batteries which suffer from safety and capacity/energy density limitations. However, challenges such as polysulfide dissolution and shuttling prevent the mass commercialization of metal sulfur batteries. Inspired by biological ion transport mechanisms, we show a practical yet comprehensive approach to developing high-performance metal sulfur batteries. Aramid nanofiber (ANF) based composite ion transport membranes prevent dendrite formation and confine polysulfides on the cathode side. ANF composite battery separators provide diverse and opposing properties, including high mechanical properties, high ionic conductivity, and high thermal/chemical stability. Moreover, ANF is mainly made from recycled Kevlar, therefore ANF based nanocomposite technology is relatively cheap and sustainable. Fabrication of such biocompatible, affordable, flexible, and high energy density batteries is quite crucial in powering next-generation electronics, including but not limited to portable, wearable, implantable devices and electric vehicles.