Li-ion Capacitor via Solvent-Co-Intercalation Process from Spent Li-ion Batteries

Li-intercalation into graphite is the key underlying mechanism in the energy storage process. However, the intercalation of solvated Li-ion/co-intercalation of Li-ion into graphite is considered unfitting, as it can initiate exfoliation of graphene layers. But later, it is revealed that co-intercalation of Li does not destroy graphene layers and the compatibility of graphite host; moreover, the type of lithiated solvent molecule decides the reversibility of co-intercalation process. Here, we report the fabrication of glyme-based Li-ion capacitors (LIC). The battery-type electrode, graphite, is recovered from a spent Li-ion battery (LIB) and serves as an anode, active along with a commercial activated carbon cathode. The assembled LIC with a co-intercalation mechanism could deliver a maximum energy density of similar to 46.40 Wh kg(-1) at ambient temperature conditions. In addition, the performance of LIC is studied at various temperature conditions to ensure compatibility at different environmental conditions. The developed dual-carbon LICs with low cost and high performance using recovered graphite as the anode can be considered as a real solution for recycling spent LIBs in an effective way by incorporating the waste-to-wealth approach.

Automated summary

The intercalation of Li into graphite is crucial in energy storage mechanisms. Research on co-intercalation has shown potential for effective recycling of spent LIBs.