A novel dual-ion desalination battery system

Abstract

To tackle the challenges associated with energy storage, dual-ion batteries have emerged as one of the most promising battery systems owing to their affordability and high energy density. In this work, a dual-ion desalination battery was designed, which employed NiCuHCF as the sodium-ion (Na⁺) intercalation cathode, Pb as the chloride-ion (Cl⁻) storage anode and 0.6 mol L⁻¹ NaCl as the aqueous electrolyte. The electrochemical mechanism encompassed the processes of sodium ion (Na⁺) insertion and extraction at the cathode and the reversible transformation of lead (Pb) to lead chloride (PbCl₂) at the anode. This unique system demonstrated exceptional electrochemical performance, including a high cycling stability (93.9% capacity retention at 1 C after 150 cycles), superior rate capability, and a high operating voltage (0.9 V). This research provides valuable insights into the large-scale commercialization potential of advanced aqueous dual-ion batteries.