Design of a Li-O2 cell prototype and study of electrolyte properties in search of improved performance of Li-O2 batteries

• Grant number: 24/17269-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: December 01, 2024
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Vitor Leite Martins
• Grantee: Andrea Paola Gualdron Plata
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/26309-4 - Beyond Li-ion: development of reversible non-aqueous metal-air batteries, AP.JP

Abstract

The global emphasis on rapid economic growth and sustainable energy is rising. While wind and solar energy offer promise, their intermittent availability presents challenges. Electrochemical energy storage, particularly lithium batteries, is crucial for powering electric vehicles and storing renewable energy. Li-O2 batteries offer a promising alternative with significantly higher energy density, potentially reducing reliance on heavy metal cathodes in conventional Li-ion batteries. However, air components can trigger unwanted reactions affecting performance. There are many parts of the cell configuration crucial for developed of new devices. In this project, we designed a functional Li-O2 prototype, and we will continue studying the components of the batteries like the positive electrode and electrolytes. Different solvents mixtures and mediator redox will be analyzed using operando and in situ techniques alongside the battery charge-discharge. Moreover, carbon materials with different textural properties will be produced for the positive electrode, the products of oxygen reactions will be identified by the same techniques in addition to differential electrochemical mass spectroscopy.

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

GUALDRON-PLATA, ANDREA P.; BRIZOLA, VIVIAN Y.; MARTINS, VITOR L.. Mechanisms of Oxygen Reactions in Lithium-Air Batteries. CHEMELECTROCHEM, v. 12, n. 12, p. 10-pg., 2025-05-12. (24/17269-7, 19/26309-4, 24/01204-3)