Efficient cathodes for quasi-solid-state aluminum-air batteries

Abstract Different commercial carbonaceous materials, two made of activated carbons and one multiwalled nanotubes, were used to prepare cathodes for primary aluminum-air cells compared with the more expensive platinum-dispersed carbon, usually as cathode many types metal-air cells. The in electrochemical tests assembled alkaline gel polymer electrolytes without any separator. Cells a cheap carbon showed better performances than those obtained platinum-based cathodes. Notably, their discharge capacities improved voltages always higher 0.2 V. These mainly attributed electrocatalytic activity it results from polarization measurements, probably due presence defects, evidenced Raman spectra. Three-electrode measure electrode potentials impact overall cell performances. During discharge, all cases, an increase anodic potential towards positive values was observed, while cathodic remained almost constant. Thus, final failure degradation interface. This indicates possibility further capacity by adopting suitable mitigation strategies parasitic reaction or different electrolyte design, aim realize efficient, cheap, eco-friendly