In a significant stride toward sustainable energy storage, researchers have developed an innovative anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) that combines renewable resources with advanced materials science. The study, led by Ismail O Koklu of the Institute of Nanotechnology at Gebze Technical University in Türkiye, introduces a composite material that could reshape the future of battery technology and contribute to global decarbonization efforts.
The research, published in the journal *Materials Research Express* (translated as “Materials Research Express”), focuses on integrating boron-phosphorus co-doped graphitic carbon nitride (BPCN) into a polyacrylonitrile-lignin (PAN-Lignin) matrix. This composite leverages the renewable nature of lignin, a byproduct of the paper industry, and the enhanced electrochemical properties of BPCN to create a more sustainable and efficient anode for LIBs.
“Our goal was to address the critical challenges in conventional LIB anodes, such as the reliance on fossil-derived materials and limited electrochemical performance,” Koklu explained. “By combining the unique properties of lignin and BPCN, we aimed to create a material that not only performs better but also aligns with sustainable practices.”
The composite material was produced using centrifugal spinning and controlled carbonization at 800 °C under argon, resulting in hierarchically porous PAN-Lignin/BPCN fibers. These fibers exhibited expanded interlayer spacing, which is crucial for improving lithium-ion storage capacity and cycling stability. The optimized 75:25 PAN-Lignin/BPCN composite demonstrated an initial discharge capacity of 522.46 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.5 A/g, a significant improvement over undoped PAN-Lignin anodes. Moreover, it retained 72.3% of its capacity over 50 cycles, showcasing its potential for long-term use.
Electrochemical analysis revealed that the BPCN component enhanced electronic conductivity through polarized B–N/P–N bonds, while the lignin-derived carbon framework provided interconnected porosity for efficient ion diffusion. This synergistic effect resulted in low initial interfacial resistance and charge transfer resistance, although some increase in resistance was observed due to the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer.
“The performance of our composite outperformed single-doped analogs and conventional lignin-based carbons,” Koklu noted. “This is attributed to the dual role of BPCN in stabilizing the SEI layer and introducing active sites for lithium-ion storage.”
The sustainability aspect of this research is particularly noteworthy. Lignin, a carbon-negative material, replaces over 75% of the fossil-based components typically used in anode production. Additionally, the carbonization process temperature was reduced by 200 °C compared to traditional graphite anodes, further enhancing the environmental benefits.
This breakthrough has significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in the development of more sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the demand for advanced battery technologies that can support this transition is growing. The PAN-Lignin/BPCN composite represents a promising step in this direction, offering a viable alternative to conventional anode materials.
“Our work sets a benchmark for biomass anodes and aligns with global decarbonization goals,” Koklu stated. “Future efforts should focus on SEI stabilization and full-cell integration to bridge the gap between lab-scale innovation and commercial energy storage systems.”
As the energy sector continues to evolve, research like this highlights the potential of combining advanced materials science with sustainable practices. The PAN-Lignin/BPCN composite not only demonstrates improved performance metrics but also paves the way for more environmentally friendly battery technologies. With further development and commercialization, this innovation could play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy storage and supporting the global transition to renewable energy.