Science Daily April 25, 2019
Previously researchers in Austria uncovered that cell ageing in living organisms and in batteries are caused by highly reactive singlet oxygen. Redox mediators play a vital role in the flow of electrons between the exterior circuit and the charge storage material in oxygen batteries and have a considerable impact on their performance. Singlet oxygen also triggers parasitic reactions, which compromise battery life and rechargeability. The researchers identified DABCOnium — which is a salt of the organic nitrogen compound DABCO — as an electrolyte additive which is much more resistant to oxidation and compatible with a lithium-metal anode. In the next steps they will develop new class of mediators which should resistant to attack from singlet oxygen and combat it effectively by performing a quenching function. This would dramatically extend the lifetimes of lithium-oxygen batteries and maximise energy efficiency…read more. TECHNICAL ARTICLE
The formation of singlet oxygen (1O?) impairs the cycle stability of many alkali metal cathodes such as the Li-O? cathode. Credit: Copyright Freunberger – TU Graz