Aligned Carbon Nanofiber/Nanotube Electrodes for Energy Storage Devices

Problem: -Li-ion batteries have low gravimetric capacities (typically 1000-4000 mAh/gcarbon) -Tortuous pore structure limit the accessibility of electrolyte to available carbon surface area and can choke off electrolyte transport pathways during discharge -Require the addition of polymeric, insulating binder material to improve mechanical integrity of electrodes and ensure good electrical connection between particles Technology: This invention proposes the synthesis of MWCNT electrodes for Lithium-Air batteries. Lithium-Air batteries consist of a Li metal cathode, an organic electrolyte, and a high-surface carbon anode. During discharge, Li ions migrate to the anode and combine with electrons and molecular oxygen to form solid LixO2. MWCNT electrodes can also be used in non-aqueous electrochemical capacitors. Christopher Noble crn@mit.edu