Focus 26 January 2021

Energy

With this page, we aim to highlight the most interesting research works published by Nature Communications in the broad topic of energy. Our ultimate goal is to stimulate debate in the multiple fields where energy is the core.

Featured articles

Phase-engineered cathode for super-stable potassium storage

The large radius of potassium ions inevitably destabilizes the crystal structure of the cathode material in potassium-ion batteries, leading to capacity degradation. Here, authors demonstrate that phase-engineered amorphous vanadium oxide alleviates large volume variation and improves electrochemical behaviour.
- Lichen Wu
- Hongwei Fu
- Bingan Lu
Article Open Access 6 Feb 2023 Nature Communications
Unlocking the hidden chemical space in cubic-phase garnet solid electrolyte for efficient quasi-all-solid-state lithium batteries

Conventional compositions of garnet solid electrolytes have limited access to the cubic phase for a high Li content of 7.0, which is beneficial for stability against Li metals. Here, the authors unlock the hidden chemical space via a high entropy strategy, enabling stable long-term battery cycling.
- Sung-Kyun Jung
- Hyeokjo Gwon
- Ju-Sik Kim
Article Open Access 10 Dec 2022 Nature Communications
Lithiated Prussian blue analogues as positive electrode active materials for stable non-aqueous lithium-ion batteries

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) are appealing materials for aqueous Na- and K- ion batteries but are limited for non-aqueous Li-ion storage. Here, the authors report the synthesis of various lithiated PBAs and discuss critical factors for improving the non-aqueous electrochemical storage of Li ions.
- Ziheng Zhang
- Maxim Avdeev
- Guang He
Article Open Access 16 Dec 2022 Nature Communications
Dual fluorination of polymer electrolyte and conversion-type cathode for high-capacity all-solid-state lithium metal batteries

The practical use of all-solid-state batteries is hindered by inadequate cycling performance. Here, the authors propose a fluorination strategy for the positive electrode and polymeric electrolyte to develop all-solid-state Li||FeF3 pouch cells with high discharge capacity and long cycle life.
- Jiulin Hu
- Chuanzhong Lai
- Chilin Li
Article Open Access 23 Dec 2022 Nature Communications
A medium-entropy transition metal oxide cathode for high-capacity lithium metal batteries

Structural instability is a major drawback of high-capacity lithium-based battery cathodes. Here, the authors report a cathode active material with a medium-entropy state created by partial cation disordering capable of restraining the structural evolution in the high-capacity operated spinel phase.
- Yi Pei
- Qing Chen
- Cheng-Yan Xu
Article Open Access 18 Oct 2022 Nature Communications
On the nanoscale structural evolution of solid discharge products in lithium-sulfur batteries using operando scattering

Understanding lithium sulfide’s electrodeposition and stripping is key to developing practical Li-S batteries. Here, the authors demonstrate that the discharge product in Li-S batteries consists of nano-size solid polysulfide particles and nano-crystalline lithium sulfide.
- Christian Prehal
- Jean-Marc von Mentlen
- Vanessa Wood
Article Open Access 24 Oct 2022 Nature Communications
Lithium hexamethyldisilazide as electrolyte additive for efficient cycling of high-voltage non-aqueous lithium metal batteries

High-voltage non-aqueous lithium metal batteries suffer from poor cycling stability due to the presence of impurities in the electrolyte solution. Here, the authors report lithium hexamethyldisilazide to scavenge HF and H₂O, prevent the Ni dissolution and suppress side reactions during cycling.
- Danfeng Zhang
- Ming Liu
- Yan-Bing He
Article Open Access 15 Nov 2022 Nature Communications
Effect of current density on the solid electrolyte interphase formation at the lithium∣Li₆PS₅Cl interface

The interface between the Li metal electrode and inorganic solid electrolyte is crucial for developing reliable all-solid-state Li batteries. Here, the authors show that the Li plating current density distinctly affects the chemistry and morphology of interphase components formed at the interface.
- Sudarshan Narayanan
- Ulderico Ulissi
- Mauro Pasta
Article Open Access 24 Nov 2022 Nature Communications
Dynamics of the fcc-to-bcc phase transition in single-crystalline PdCu alloy nanoparticles

Phase transitions in crystals are challenging to study with atomic resolution. Here, the authors reveal that the transition from fcc to bcc occurs across a few-atoms-wide coherent interface, which serves as a precursor phase for the nucleation of the bcc phase.
- Yingying Jiang
- Martial Duchamp
- Utkur Mirsaidov
Article Open Access 6 Jan 2023 Nature Communications
Phase diagrams guide synthesis of highly ordered intermetallic electrocatalysts: separating alloying and ordering stages

The synthesis of highly ordered intermetallic compound catalysts remains a challenge owing to the limited understanding of their formation mechanism under high-temperature conditions. Here the authors identify phase-transition-temperature-dependent evolution process in the synthesis of intermetallic Pt catalysts and propose a separate alloying/ordering annealing synthetic protocol.
- Wei-Jie Zeng
- Chang Wang
- Hai-Wei Liang
Article Open Access 10 Dec 2022 Nature Communications
Rapid complete reconfiguration induced actual active species for industrial hydrogen evolution reaction

Rational regulation of electrochemical reconfiguration and exploration of activity origin are important for electrocatalysis. Here, a novel CoC₂O₄@MXene tubular catalyst is rationally designed to achieve rapid complete reconfiguration engineering during the hydrogen evolution reaction process.
- Luqi Wang
- Yixin Hao
- Shengjie Peng
Article Open Access 2 Oct 2022 Nature Communications
Impedance-based forecasting of lithium-ion battery performance amid uneven usage

Accurate forecasts of lithium-ion battery performance will ease concerns about the reliability of electric vehicles. Here, the authors leverage electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and machine learning to show that future capacity can be predicted amid uneven use, with no historical data requirement.
- Penelope K. Jones
- Ulrich Stimming
- Alpha A. Lee
Article Open Access 16 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
Codoped porous carbon nanofibres as a potassium metal host for nonaqueous K-ion batteries

The use of electrochemical energy storage systems based on alkali metal electrodes is hindered by the dendrites’ growth and volume changes upon cycling. Here, the authors propose nitrogen and zinc co-doped porous carbon nanofibers as potassium metal hosting material for reversible metal deposition.
- Siwu Li
- Haolin Zhu
- Jia Xie
Article Open Access 20 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
The role of concentration in electrolyte solutions for non-aqueous lithium-based batteries

The quest for high-energy electrochemical energy storage systems has driven researchers to look toward highly concentrated electrolytes. Here, the author discusses the recent progress and future perspectives of such electrolytes and their ability to improve the performances of lithium-based batteries.
- Guinevere A. Giffin
Comment Open Access 6 Sep 2022 Nature Communications
Autonomous optimization of non-aqueous Li-ion battery electrolytes via robotic experimentation and machine learning coupling

Human-operated optimization of non-aqueous Li-ion battery liquid electrolytes is a time-consuming process. Here, the authors propose an automated workflow that couples robotic experiments with machine learning to optimize liquid electrolyte formulations without human intervention.
- Adarsh Dave
- Jared Mitchell
- Venkatasubramanian Viswanathan
Article Open Access 27 Sep 2022 Nature Communications
Selectively anchoring single atoms on specific sites of supports for improved oxygen evolution

While single-atom catalysts offer well-defined structures, the homogeneity of the active sites is determined by localized coordination environments. Here, authors anchor Ir single atoms onto different sites on CoOOH and show how their distinct coordinations activate oxygen-evolving electrocatalysis
- Zhirong Zhang
- Chen Feng
- Jie Zeng
Article Open Access 5 May 2022 Nature Communications
Visualizing the failure of solid electrolyte under GPa-level interface stress induced by lithium eruption

The mechanism of lithium dendrites penetrating solid electrolytes remains elusive. Herein, the authors reveal the Li deposition dynamics and the associated failure mechanism of solid electrolyte by visualizing the Li|LLZO interface evolution via in situ transmission electron microscopy.
- Haowen Gao
- Xin Ai
- Ming-Sheng Wang
Article Open Access 27 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
Movable type printing method to synthesize high-entropy single-atom catalysts

It is challenging to integrate multi-single metal atoms into one support. In this work, the authors demonstrate the production of high-entropy single-atom catalysts via a movable typing method, which enables the anchor up to eleven metals as highly dispersed single-atom active centers on the carbon support for the oxygen reduction reaction.
- Peng Rao
- Yijie Deng
- Xinlong Tian
Article Open Access 29 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
Fundamental investigations on the sodium-ion transport properties of mixed polyanion solid-state battery electrolytes

Battery solid-state electrolytes rely on mixed polyanion networks to attain high ionic conductivities. Here, the authors investigate the effect of polyanion mixing on the solid-state electrolyte ion conductivity via theoretical calculations and electrochemical measurements.
- Zeyu Deng
- Tara P. Mishra
- Pieremanuele Canepa
Article Open Access 2 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
The role of solid solutions in iron phosphate-based electrodes for selective electrochemical lithium extraction

Lithium extraction from dilute sources could help solve the lithium supply security issue. Here, the authors investigate the Li- and Na- ion co-intercalation behavior in iron phosphate electrodes and demonstrate the lithium selectivity control through intercalation kinetic manipulations.
- Gangbin Yan
- George Kim
- Chong Liu
Article Open Access 5 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
Development of high-energy non-aqueous lithium-sulfur batteries via redox-active interlayer strategy

Lithium-sulfur batteries promise high energy density, but polysulfide shuttling acts as a major stumbling block toward practical development. Here, a redox-active interlayer is proposed to confine polysulfides, increase the cell capacity and improve cell cycle life.
- Byong-June Lee
- Chen Zhao
- Jong-Sung Yu
Article Open Access 8 Aug 2022 Nature Communications
Efficient and stable noble-metal-free catalyst for acidic water oxidation

While acidic water splitting offers a renewable means to obtain renewable hydrogen fuel, the catalysts needed to oxidize water often require expensive noble metals. Here, authors show manganese oxyhalides as acidic oxygen evolution electrocatalysts.
- Sanjiang Pan
- Hao Li
- Xiaodan Zhang
Article Open Access 28 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
Effect of the grain arrangements on the thermal stability of polycrystalline nickel-rich lithium-based battery cathodes

Enhancing the stability of positive electrodes at thermally-abused conditions is vital for next-generation lithium-based batteries. Here, the authors report in situ physicochemical characterizations to improve the fundamental understanding of the degradation mechanism in polycrystalline Ni-rich cathodes.
- Dong Hou
- Zhengrui Xu
- Feng Lin
Article Open Access 15 Jun 2022 Nature Communications
Tailoring the metal electrode morphology via electrochemical protocol optimization for long-lasting aqueous zinc batteries

Long-lasting zinc metal electrodes are crucial in developing commercial zinc-based batteries. Here, the authors investigate the different morphology evolution between the stripping and plating process and propose electrochemical protocols to prolong the lifespan of zinc anodes.
- Qing Li
- Ao Chen
- Chunyi Zhi
Article Open Access 27 Jun 2022 Nature Communications
Rational design of a topological polymeric solid electrolyte for high-performance all-solid-state alkali metal batteries

Solid-state polymer electrolytes are crucial for developing future rechargeable batteries, but they are still limited in performance. Here, the authors designed a topological polymeric solid electrolyte, enabling an all-solid-state high-voltage lithium metal pouch cell to cycle 200 times efficiently.
- Yun Su
- Xiaohui Rong
- Yong-Sheng Hu
Article Open Access 19 Jul 2022 Nature Communications
Development of quasi-solid-state anode-free high-energy lithium sulfide-based batteries

The development of anode-free batteries requires investigations at the electrode and electrolyte levels. Here, the authors report a high-energy quasi-solid-state anode-free pouch cell with a Li2S-based cathode that demonstrates enhanced safety features.
- Yuzhao Liu
- Xiangyu Meng
- Jieshan Qiu
Article Open Access 29 Jul 2022 Nature Communications
Production of a hybrid capacitive storage device via hydrogen gas and carbon electrodes coupling

Conventional electric double-layer capacitors show limited energy content for energy storage applications. Here, the authors report an electrocatalytic hydrogen gas capacitor with improved specific energy, which can operate in pH-universal aqueous electrolyte solutions and a wide temperature range.
- Zhengxin Zhu
- Zaichun Liu
- Wei Chen
Article Open Access 19 May 2022 Nature Communications
Entropy and crystal-facet modulation of P2-type layered cathodes for long-lasting sodium-based batteries

The use of Mn-rich layered cathodes in Na-based batteries is hindered by inadequate cycling reversibility and sluggish anionic redox kinetics. Here, the authors report a strategy to stabilize the structure and promote anionic redox via configurational entropy and ion-diffusion structural tuning.
- Fang Fu
- Xiang Liu
- Gui-Liang Xu
Article Open Access 20 May 2022 Nature Communications
Development of efficient aqueous organic redox flow batteries using ion-sieving sulfonated polymer membranes

Aqueous organic redox flow batteries are promising for grid-scale energy storage, although their practical application is still limited. Here, the authors report highly ion-conductive and selective polymer membranes, which boost the battery’s efficiency and stability, offering cost-effective electricity storage.
- Chunchun Ye
- Anqi Wang
- Qilei Song
Article Open Access 8 Jun 2022 Nature Communications
Niobium-doped layered cathode material for high-power and low-temperature sodium-ion batteries

The practical application of sodium-ion batteries at subzero temperatures is hindered by the slow Na-ion transfer kinetics. Here, the authors reported the niobium doping of P2-type cathode active material capable of efficient battery cycling at low temperatures such as −40 °C.
- Qinhao Shi
- Ruijuan Qi
- Yufeng Zhao
Article Open Access 9 Jun 2022 Nature Communications
Expanding the active charge carriers of polymer electrolytes in lithium-based batteries using an anion-hosting cathode

The energy content of secondary batteries is often limited by the charge carriers available in the system. Here, the authors employed an anion acceptor cathode for simultaneous use of electrolyte anions and cations as effective charge carriers in solid polymer electrolytes for lithium-based batteries.
- Zongjie Sun
- Kai Xi
- Shujiang Ding
Article Open Access 9 Jun 2022 Nature Communications
Frenkel-defected monolayer MoS₂ catalysts for efficient hydrogen evolution

While material defect sites are active for chemical reactions, it is important to understand how different defect types impact reactivity. Here, authors prepare Frenkel-defected MoS₂ monolayers and demonstrate improved performances for H₂ evolution electrocatalysis than pristine or doped MoS₂.
- Jie Xu
- Gonglei Shao
- Zhen Zhou
Article Open Access 22 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
Design principles for water dissociation catalysts in high-performance bipolar membranes

It is important yet challenging to elucidate the mechanism of water dissociation in bipolar membrane electrolysers. Here the authors show how water dissociation is accelerated by electric-field-focusing and catalytic effects and uncover design principles to optimize the performance.
- Lihaokun Chen
- Qiucheng Xu
- Shannon W. Boettcher
Article Open Access 4 Jul 2022 Nature Communications
Unveiling the charge transfer dynamics steered by built-in electric fields in BiOBr photocatalysts

While internal electric fields alter charge-separation dynamics in solar-to-chemical conversions, a greater understanding of such processes is necessary. Here, authors analyze charge transfer dynamics modulated by built-in electric fields and identify carrier drift distances as a critical parameter.
- Zhishan Luo
- Xiaoyuan Ye
- Xinchen Wang
Article Open Access 25 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
Redox-homogeneous, gel electrolyte-embedded high-mass-loading cathodes for high-energy lithium metal batteries

The development of high energy lithium metal batteries is affected by the mass loading of the cathode. Here, the authors report a lithium metal pouch cell with a cathode capacity of 12 mAh cm-2. The positive electrode is prepared by applying UV-curable gel electrolyte as a processing solvent.
- Jung-Hui Kim
- Ju-Myung Kim
- Sang-Young Lee
Article Open Access 9 May 2022 Nature Communications
Atomic-precision Pt₆ nanoclusters for enhanced hydrogen electro-oxidation

While Pt is an active fuel cell catalyst, it’s low abundance and high cost spurs research into boosting performances from lesser Pt amounts. Here, authors design atomically precise triphenylphosphine-stabilized Pt nanoclusters with high activities and durabilities for electrocatalytic H₂ oxidation.
- Xiaoning Wang
- Lianming Zhao
- Wei Xing
Article Open Access 24 Mar 2022 Nature Communications
Data-driven capacity estimation of commercial lithium-ion batteries from voltage relaxation

Accurate capacity estimation is crucial for lithium-ion batteries' reliable and safe operation. Here, the authors propose an approach exploiting features from the relaxation voltage curve for battery capacity estimation without requiring other previous cycling information.
- Jiangong Zhu
- Yixiu Wang
- Helmut Ehrenberg
Article Open Access 27 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
Enabling high energy lithium metal batteries via single-crystal Ni-rich cathode material co-doping strategy

Li-ion cathode active materials are transitioning from poly- to single-crystal structures. However, the performance of high Ni-content single-crystal cathodes remains below expectations. Here, via Al/Zr co-doping, the authors propose a strategy to mitigate structural degradation in this class of materials.
- Xing Ou
- Tongchao Liu
- Jun Lu
Article Open Access 28 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
A cost-effective alkaline polysulfide-air redox flow battery enabled by a dual-membrane cell architecture

Polysulfide-air redox flow batteries are an appealing energy storage technology but suffer from polysulfide crossover and the use of costly catalysts. Here, the authors report a cell structure that enables battery operation using a cost-effective catalyst while mitigating polysulfide crossover.
- Yuhua Xia
- Mengzheng Ouyang
- Nigel P. Brandon
Article Open Access 2 May 2022 Nature Communications
Enabling fast-charging selenium-based aqueous batteries via conversion reaction with copper ions

Aqueous battery Se-based cathodes are based on a two-electron transfer electrochemical reaction and generally show inadequate rate capability behaviour. Here, the authors propose a four-electron Se chemistry with copper ions as charge carriers to enable fast-charging battery cycling.
- Chunlong Dai
- Linyu Hu
- Liangti Qu
Article Open Access 6 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
Promoting favorable interfacial properties in lithium-based batteries using chlorine-rich sulfide inorganic solid-state electrolytes

The interfacial stability of lithium metal is a crucial aspect for all-solid-state battery development. Here, authors report argyrodite solid electrolytes containing LiCl framework, where the Cl ions construct a LiCl-rich interphase capable of improving battery performances.
- Dewu Zeng
- Jingming Yao
- Lin Wang
Article Open Access 7 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
Production of fast-charge Zn-based aqueous batteries via interfacial adsorption of ion-oligomer complexes

Aqueous zinc batteries attract interest because of their potential for cost-effective and safe electricity storage. Here, the authors develop an in situ formed ion-oligomer nanometric interphase strategy to enable fast-charge aqueous Zn cells.
- Shuo Jin
- Jiefu Yin
- Lynden A. Archer
Article Open Access 27 Apr 2022 Nature Communications
A high-performance capillary-fed electrolysis cell promises more cost-competitive renewable hydrogen

Water electrolysis offers a promising means for green hydrogen production, however current electrolysers do not provide a competitive edge over fossil fuels. Here, authors develop a capillary-fed electrolyser setup that avoids bubble formation to achieve a high-performance, cost-competitive device.
- Aaron Hodges
- Anh Linh Hoang
- Gordon G. Wallace
Article Open Access 15 Mar 2022 Nature Communications
Optical sensors for operando stress monitoring in lithium-based batteries containing solid-state or liquid electrolytes

Chemo-mechanical stress within Li-based batteries detrimentally affects the performance and lifetime of these devices. Here, the authors propose an operando technique using optical fibers embedded in electrodes for internal stress monitoring of cells containing either solid or liquid electrolytes.
- Laura Albero Blanquer
- Florencia Marchini
- Jean-Marie Tarascon
Article Open Access 3 Mar 2022 Nature Communications
Hollow-core optical fibre sensors for operando Raman spectroscopy investigation of Li-ion battery liquid electrolytes

New analytical tools are needed to identify chemical degradation and failure mechanisms in Li-ion batteries. Here, the authors report an operando Raman spectroscopy method, based on hollow-core optical fibres, that enables monitoring the chemistry of liquid electrolytes during battery cycling.
- Ermanno Miele
- Wesley M. Dose
- Tijmen G. Euser
Article Open Access 28 Mar 2022 Nature Communications
Production of a monolithic fuel cell stack with high power density

The transportation sector is gradually evolving to become independent of fossil fuels. Here, the authors report a metal-based monolithic solid oxide fuel cell with a power density of 5.6 kW/L suitable for transport applications.
- Stéven Pirou
- Belma Talic
- Anke Hagen
Article Open Access 10 Mar 2022 Nature Communications

Energy

Featured articles

Search

Quick links