Low-cost Al-air batteries with paper-based solid electrolyte

This work demonstrates a novel-type paper-based solid electrolyte (PBSE) and its application in Al-air battery, which is targeted for miniwatt applications. Benefited from the solid-form electrolyte, a liquid-free operation of the Al-air battery is realized, eliminating the potential leakage hazard and therefore improving the battery practicability. The PBSE is prepared by impregnating gel electrolyte into porous cellulose paper, followed by a solution casting process to solidify the gel. The as-prepared PBSE can either be used in mechanical rechargeable Al-air batteries, or be integrated into single-use flexible Al-air batteries. Currently the PBSE can achieve a moderate battery performance with a peak power density of 3.8 mW cm(-2) and an Al specific capacity of 900.8 mA h g(-1). Properties of the PBSE can be further improved by a comprehensive parametric study on its fabrication parameters, such as gel concentration, casting temperature, casting time, porosity and pore size of paper substrate, etc. (C) 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.