Lithium Photo‐intercalation of CdS‐Sensitized WO₃ Anode for Energy Storage and Photoelectrochromic Applications

Abstract

Integration of solar‐energy harvesting and storage functions has attracted significant research attention, as it holds promise for ultimate development of light‐chargeable devices. In this context, a functional nanocomposite anode that not only permits electrochemical energy storage through Li‐ion photo‐intercalation, but also exhibits potential for photoelectrochromic applications, was investigated. The nanocomposite is made of the Li‐ion intercalation compound WO3, thinly coated with TiO2 and sensitized by the photoactive semiconductor CdS. During light exposure, the photoelectrons from CdS are transported to the WO3/electrolyte interface, where Li‐ion intercalation takes place. Photoelectron transport is facilitated by the interfacial TiO2 layer. The WO3 was shown to be functional in multiple photocharge–discharge cycles, but the CdS suffers from degradation and photocorrosion. Hence, the selection of compatible semiconductors and protective coating strategies should be pursued to overcome these issues.

Integrated Photo‐Responsive Batteries for Solar Energy Harnessing: Recent Advances, Challenges, and Opportunities

“…In addition to the design of effective photocathodes, integrating photo‐responsiveness into the anode also is viable to construct direct photocharging Li−I batteries without any external power. To achieve the goal, the key is to explore new photoanodes to replace the traditional Li anode . Recently, Demopoulos and coworkers designed a novel photoanode made by the CdS‐sensitized Li‐ion intercalation compound (WO 3 ), coated with a thin TiO 2 layer .…”

“…To achieve the goal, the key is to explore new photoanodes to replace the traditional Li anode . Recently, Demopoulos and coworkers designed a novel photoanode made by the CdS‐sensitized Li‐ion intercalation compound (WO 3 ), coated with a thin TiO 2 layer . As‐fabricated batteries exhibited good open‐circuit photocharging capability with a discharge capacity (7.3 μAh cm −2 ) at first cycle under light.…”

Integrated Photorechargeable Energy Storage System: Next‐Generation Power Source Driving the Future

“…Considering that the CB edge of CdS at roughly 2.5 V versus Li + /Li aligns favorably with the CB of WO 3 located at about 3 V versus Li + /Li, [ 116 ] instead of incorporating a dye into WO 3 –TiO 2 electrode, Demopoulo and co‐workers selected the CdS as photoabsorbing materials, as shown in Figure 11c. [ 117 ] The photoexcitation and lithium insertion/extraction simultaneously occurred on this single CdS–WO 3 –TiO 2 electrode making a simple device configuration. The discharge capacity reached its maximum of 19.5 mAh g −1 when the photoelectrochemical cell was photocharged for 5 h.…”

“…Reproduced with permission. [ 117 ] Copyright 2018, Wiley‐VCH. d) Configuration and electron transfer scheme of the designed quasisolid‐state solar rechargeable battery with PEO gel electrolyte.…”

Continuous hydrothermal flow-inspired synthesis and ultra-fast ammonia and humidity room-temperature sensor activities of WO3 nanobricks

“…properties, which have made it a appropriate material for various applications such as catalysts [3], gas sensors [4], and energy storage applications [5]. Up till, myriads of chemical and physical preparation methods like thermal evaporation, chemical vapor deposition, the sputtering, and colloidal suspension, have been applied for the synthesis of WO 3 nanostructures of different phases and morphologies; nanoparticles, nanofiber, nanorods and nanowires [6,7].…”