(Invited) Graphene and 2d Crystals for Energy Devices

Energy conversion and storage are two of the grand challenges that our society is facing. New materials and processes [1] can improve the performance of existing devices or enable new ones [2] that are also environmentally benign. In this talk we will start by reviewing recent progress on the application of graphene, related two-dimensional crystals, and hybrid systems for energy conversion and storage [3]. The versatility of graphene and related materials can lead to new power management solutions for portable and flexible devices, as well as integration in living environments. In this context we will present our latest results on the development of solar module based on graphene ink deposited by spray coating on large area (~50cm²), a promising starting point for façade applications. We will then focus on our recent development of graphene-based ink battery that displays an estimated energy density of about 200 Whkg^-1 and a stable operation for over 80 charge-discharge cycles [4]. These properties are linked to the graphene nanoflake anode displaying crystalline order and high uptake of lithium at the edges. Our approach, compatible with any printing technologies, is cheap and scalable and opens up new opportunities for the development of high-capacity Li-ion batteries.

References

1. F. Bonaccorso, et al., Production and processing of graphene and 2d crystals. Materials Today, 15, (2012), 564-589.
2. F. Bonaccorso, Z. Sun, Solution processing of graphene, topological insulators and other 2d crystals for ultrafast photonics. Opt. Mater. Express 4, (2014) 63-78.
3. F. Bonaccorso, et. al., Graphene, 2d crystal and hybrid structures for energy conversion and storage. Science in press (2014).
4. J. Hassoun, et al. An advanced lithium-ion battery based on a graphene anode and a lithium iron phosphate cathode. Nano Lett. 14, 4901-4906 (2014).

 * Work done in collaboration with A. Di Carlo, E. Kymakis, B. Scrosati,