Enhancing aluminium-ion battery performance with carbon xerogel cathodes

Abstract

This study presents groundbreaking results in the field of rechargeable aluminium-ion batteries, achieving stable capacities exceeding 300 mAh g-1 for more than 300 cycles. The key to this achievement lies in the utilization of tailor-made carbon materials and a urea-AlCl3-based electrolyte. The article investigates the optimal physicochemical properties of the active material necessary for effective electrodes for these aluminium-ion batteries. This investigation employs a wide range of materials characterization techniques (XRD, SEM-EDX, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, Hg porosimetry, XPS, FTIR, Raman and TEM-EDX) and electrochemical performance analyses to delve into the subject. These findings represent a significant improvement in the capacity of aluminium-ion batteries, bringing us closer to their implementation and commercialization. This achievement is attributed to the utilization of readily available, cost-effective, and non-corrosive materials. The ability to customize carbon xerogels and the use of the urea-AlCl3 electrolyte offer promising avenues for the practical implementation of these advanced battery technologies, leading to further enhancements in their performance and widespread adoption in various applications.