Nanoclusters Revolutionize Energy Storage: Overcoming the “Shuttle Effect” in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

2023-10-14 09:22:13
Nanoclusters vs. the “shuttle effect”: Energy storage reaches a new levelHow small particles can bring big changes in the world of batteries. With the advent of variable renewable energy sources and the growing popularity of electric vehicles, the demand for efficient energy storage systems is growing. In this regard, lithium-sulfur batteries (LSB), capable of storing 3-5 times more energy than traditional lithium-ion batteries, represent a promising solution. However, the combination of lithium and sulfur in a battery faces the problem of the “shuttle effect,” when intermediate connections during battery operation cause wear and loss of capacity. Attempts to solve this problem using various methods have not yet led to an optimal result. However, a recent study by a team of scientists from Japan and China led by Professor Yuichi Negishi from the Tokyo University of Sciences has revealed the potential of metal nanoclusters in LSBs. The researchers used nanoclusters composed of platinum and gold as a highly efficient electrocatalyst in LSB. These nanoclusters allowed the development of a special separator that improved the chemical reactions in the battery. Thanks to this, the new battery demonstrated excellent capacity and resistance to charge-discharge cycles. It showed a capacity of 1535.4 mAh/g at the first cycle and 887 mAh/g at a load of 5A/g. The benefits of using metal nanoclusters include improved energy capacity, longer lifespan, and lower environmental impact. “LSBs with metal nanoclusters could find applications in electric vehicles, portable electronics and other industries,” says Professor Negishi. In the near future, this technology could lead to more durable and cost-effective energy storage devices, which in turn will help reduce carbon emissions and promote the adoption of renewable energy.
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