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Biopolymers are an emerging class of novel materials with diverse applications and properties such as superior sustainability and tunability. Here, applications of biopolymers are described in the context of energy storage devices, namely lithium-based batteries, zinc-based batteries, and capacitors. Current demand for energy storage technologies calls for improved energy density, preserved performance overtime, and more sustainable end-of-life behavior. Lithium-based and zinc-based batteries often face anode corrosion from processes such as dendrite formation. Capacitors typically struggle with achieving functional energy density caused by an inability to efficiently charge and discharge. Both classes of energy storage need to be packaged with sustainable materials due to their potential leakages of toxic metals. In this review paper, recent progress in energy applications is described for biocompatible polymers such as silk, keratin, collagen, chitosan, cellulose, and agarose. Fabrication techniques are described for various components of the battery/capacitors including the electrode, electrolyte, and separators with biopolymers. Of these methods, incorporating the porosity found within various biopolymers is commonly used to maximize ion transport in the electrolyte and prevent dendrite formations in lithium-based, zinc-based batteries, and capacitors. Overall, integrating biopolymers in energy storage solutions poses a promising alternative that can theoretically match traditional energy sources while eliminating harmful consequences to the environment.
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This content will become publicly available on July 1, 2025
Development of rechargeable cement-based batteries with carbon fiber mesh for energy storage solutions
This paper presents the development of novel rechargeable cement-based batteries with carbon fiber mesh for energy storage applications. With the increasing demand for sustainable energy storage solutions, there is a growing interest in exploring unconventional materials and technologies. The batteries featured the carbon fiber mesh, which coated with nickel oxide and iron materials as electrodes and immersed in a cement-based electrolyte, offering a unique approach to energy storage. Experimental investigations, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, charge-discharge cycling, and rate performance assessments, were conducted to evaluate the batteries' performance. Results indicated that the batteries have promising features such as high ionic conductivity of the cement-based electrolyte and stable charge-discharge behaviors over 100 cycles. Cyclic voltammetry curves demonstrated quasi-reversible redox peaks, indicative of battery-type electrochemistry. The rechargeable cement-based batteries exhibited stability in discharge capacity, efficiency, and energy density, surpassing existing literatures on cement batteries, with a maximum energy density of 7.6 Wh/ m2. Despite challenges related to efficiency and energy density, this paper envisions the practical applications for the batteries, from powering light sensors to supporting 5G base stations and meeting daily electricity needs. Integration of rechargeable cement-based batteries and clean energy sources holds significant promise for global energy storage solutions. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into developing rechargeable cement-based batteries, highlights their potential as sustainable energy storage solutions with opportunities for further optimization and future advancements.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2332028
- PAR ID:
- 10542971
- Publisher / Repository:
- ELSEVIER
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Journal of Energy Storage
- Volume:
- 93
- Issue:
- C
- ISSN:
- 2352-152X
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 112181
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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