The new method, which is described in a paper published in the journal Advanced Materials, could be used to 3D print high-performance batteries with custom shapes and architectures.

The need for high porosity electrodes

Today’s lithium-ion batteries rely on a cathode, or positive electrode, made of a material with a relatively high specific surface area. This is necessary to provide a large number of sites for the storage and release of lithium ions.

The specific surface area of a material is the amount of exposed surface area per unit mass. For example, a material with a high specific surface area will have a lot of exposed surface area for a given mass.

The problem with today’s battery electrodes is that they are made of solid materials with low porosity. This means that there is a limited amount of exposed surface area for the storage and release of lithium ions.

The new 3D printing method

The new 3D printing method, called direct-write electrochemical deposition, overcomes this problem by fabricating electrodes with high porosity.

The method works by depositing material onto a substrate in a controlled manner. This results in the formation of pores, or voids, in the material.

The pores can be controlled by changing the deposition conditions, such as the flow rate of the deposition solution.

The benefits of high porosity electrodes

High porosity electrodes have a number of advantages over low porosity electrodes.

First, they have a higher specific surface area. This means that they can store and release more lithium ions.

Second, they have a higher electrical conductivity. This is because the pores in the electrodes provide a pathway for the flow of electrons.

Third, they can be made from a variety of materials. This includes conducting polymers, metals, and even semiconductors.

Fourth, they can be made into any shape or size. This includes thin films and 3D structures.

Lastly, they can be used in a variety of applications. This includes batteries, fuel cells, supercapacitors, and sensors.

The potential applications of high porosity electrodes

The new 3D printing method could be used to fabricate high-performance batteries with custom shapes and architectures.

For example, the method could be used to 3D print thin film electrodes with pores that are just a few nanometers in diameter.

These electrodes could be used in lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and sensors.

In addition, the method could be used to 3D print metal electrodes with a porous structure.

These electrodes could be used in fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries.

Conclusion

The new 3D printing method could be used to fabricate high-performance batteries with custom shapes and architectures. This could lead to batteries with improved performance, longer lifetimes, and lower costs.