Evaluation of Li-Air Batteries With EC-DEC Based Nanocomposite Electrolytes

Abstract

Electrolytes based on organic carbonate solvents of ethylene carbonate (EC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC) were prepared by using LiPF6 as the Li-source. Nano sized Al2O3 (50 nm) was used as a reinforcing component in order to control corrosion and Li2CO3 formation. Corrosion of the Li foil anode and electrochemical tests were performed by using EC/DEC/LiPF6 and nanocomposite EC/DEC/LiPF6/5wt.% Al2O3 electrolytes. Electrochemical tests were performed in the swagelok cells by using Li foil anode and carbon air cathode electrodes. Structural tests were carried out by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Results revealed that incorporation of nano Al2O3 leads to a decrease of corrosion rate of Li anode and a small decrease in the capacity of the air cells.