Chain-like carbon nano-onions from candle flame combustion as a high-performance cathode for aluminum-air batteries

• Published in: Diamond and related materials 2022-11, Vol.129, p.109396, Article 109396
• Main Authors: Namwong, Nit, Kruehong, Chaiyaput
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Al-air battery; Aluminum; Anodes; Aqueous electrolyte; Carbon; Carbon cathode; Cathodes; Chain-like carbon nano-onions; Chains; Chemical reduction; Combustion; Electrodes; Electrolytes; Metal air batteries; Metal foams; Oxygen reduction reaction; Oxygen reduction reactions; Synthesizers
• ISSN: 0925-9635; 1879-0062
• DOI: 10.1016/j.diamond.2022.109396

A positive air electrode capable of a high‑oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) from chain-like carbon nano-onions (CLCNOs) was synthesized directly onto the surface of nickel foam using candle flame combustion. The 50 s synthesis positive air electrode with a carbon loading of 0.49 mgcm−2 provides higher ORR catalytic capability than that of other time synthesizers in natural pH electrolytes. Increasing the cathode-to-anode ratio increases the cell voltage from 0.41 to 0.53 V, causing the specific capacity to reach 1108 mAhg−1. In addition, a positive air electrode can work continuously for 14 days, even after repeated use and replacement of new aluminum anodes several times. [Display omitted] •Al-air battery made with a positive air electrode from candle flame combustion•High ORR of chain-like carbon nano-onions in natural pH electrolytes•A specific capacity of 1108 mAhg−1 is achieved with a cathode-to-anode ratio of 4:1.•A positive air electrode performs well over 300 h with active and intermittent breaks.