Self-Oxygenated Blood Protein-Embedded Nanotube Catalysts forLonger Cyclable Lithium Oxygen-Breathing Batteries

Abstract

Because of the increasing demand for energy, Li-O2batteries have emerged as encouraging energy storage systems,because of their exceptional energy potential. However, thesluggish reactions caused by the inactive decomposition of theinsulating discharge products are primarily responsible fordisrupting their reversible operation. Herein, we report the directapplication of hemoglobin (Hb) protein into carbon nanotubes(CNTs) via a facile fabrication way for efficient Li-O2cellreactions. Our research indicated that Hb protein is an emergingenvironmentally friendly and abundant catalyst candidate withauto-oxygen binding properties. The protein was successfullyinfiltrated into CNTs via capillary force to fabricate proteinated CNT cathode materials. Compared with the cells featuring pristineCNTs, those featuring proteinated CNTs presented reversible performance and stable cyclability with low overpotential, because ofthe protein sources serving as a catalyst in the charge region. Our results suggest that proteins can be used to develop catalysts usingan economic and environmentally friendly method. Moreover, ourfindings contribute to the progress of Li-O2batteries as next-generation energy storage