A solution-to-solid conversion chemistry enables ultrafast-charging and long-lived molten salt aluminium batteries

Jiashen Meng, Xuhui Yao, Xufeng Hong, Lujun Zhu, Zhitong Xiao, Yongfeng Jia, Fang Liu, Huimin Song, Yunlong Zhao and Quanquan Pang ()
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Jiashen Meng: Peking University
Xuhui Yao: University of Surrey
Xufeng Hong: Peking University
Lujun Zhu: Peking University
Zhitong Xiao: Peking University
Yongfeng Jia: Peking University
Fang Liu: Peking University
Huimin Song: Peking University
Yunlong Zhao: Imperial College London
Quanquan Pang: Peking University

Nature Communications, 2023, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Conventional solid-to-solid conversion-type cathodes in batteries suffer from poor diffusion/reaction kinetics, large volume changes and aggressive structural degradation, particularly for rechargeable aluminium batteries (RABs). Here we report a class of high-capacity redox couples featuring a solution-to-solid conversion chemistry with well-manipulated solubility as cathodes—uniquely allowed by using molten salt electrolytes—that enable fast-charging and long-lived RABs. As a proof-of-concept, we demonstrate a highly reversible redox couple—the highly soluble InCl and the sparingly soluble InCl3—that exhibits a high capacity of about 327 mAh g−1 with negligible cell overpotential of only 35 mV at 1 C rate and 150 °C. The cells show almost no capacity fade over 500 cycles at a 20 C charging rate and can sustain 100 mAh g−1 at 50 C. The fast oxidation kinetics of the solution phase upon initiating the charge enables the cell with ultrafast charging capability, whereas the structure self-healing via re-forming the solution phase at the end of discharge endows the long-term cycling stability. This solution-to-solid mechanism will unlock more multivalent battery cathodes that are attractive in cost but plagued by poor reaction kinetics and short cycle life.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39258-y

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