Aqueous energy storage devices with organic electrode materials

Abstract

An aqueous metal-ion battery and a method for constructing same. In one embodiment, the battery includes an aqueous electrolyte and at least one electrode comprising at least one organic electrode material. A method comprises incorporating an organic electrode material into the electrode of an aqueous metal-ion battery. The organic electrode material further comprises at least one material chosen from carbonyl compounds.

Claims

1. An aqueous metal-ion battery comprising: an electrolyte formed of an aqueous solution having a pH ranging from 2 to 12; an anode comprising at least one organic carbonyl compound as a redox active material for metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination; a cathode comprising a compound for metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination; and wherein ionic charge carriers are metal ions that move from the anode to the cathode during discharge and back when charging, wherein the organic carbonyl compound comprises a structural formula chosen from the group consisting of (I), (II), and (III): ##STR00001## wherein Core has at least one structural formula chosen from the group consisting of (h) and (i): ##STR00002## Chain has at least one structural formula chosen from the group consisting of (l), (m), (n) and (o): ##STR00003## L is a moiety chosen from the group consisting of dicarbonyl, NH, O, S, CH.sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.3, (CH.sub.2).sub.4, (CH.sub.2).sub.6, 5/6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, and combinations thereof, n is at least 2, Al.sup.1 is at least one moiety chosen from the group consisting of naphthalene, perylene, and 5/6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups.

2. The battery of claim 1, wherein the core is coupled to at least one chemical group chosen from the group consisting of a polymer chain, an oligomer chain, dicarbonyl, NH, O, S, CH.sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.3, (CH.sub.2).sub.4, (CH.sub.2).sub.6, optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, and another core.

3. The battery of claim 1, wherein the core comprises at least one chemical group chosen from the group consisting of naphthalene, perylene, optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, biaryls having optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, H, CH.sub.3, and C.sub.2H.sub.5.

4. The battery of claim 1, wherein the carbonyls in the core are reduced and coordinated to metal-ions.

5. The battery of claim 1, comprising the cathode consisting of at least one organic or inorganic electrode material.

6. The battery of claim 5, wherein the cathode comprises at least one organic electrode material chosen from the group consisting of carbonyl compounds, organosulfur compounds, radical compounds, non-conjugated polymers, and combinations thereof.

7. The battery of claim 1, wherein the cathode is capable of intercalation by/coordination to at least one metal-ion chosen from the group consisting of lithium (Li), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and aluminum (Al), and combinations thereof.

8. The battery of claim 1, wherein the aqueous solution comprises at least one metal salt as solute and an aqueous solvent which comprises at least 90 wt. % of water.

9. The battery of claim 1, where the at least one organic carbonyl compound is not p-doped or n-doped and contains electrochemically reducible carbonyl groups.

10. A method of constructing an aqueous battery comprising: preparing an anode comprising at least one organic carbonyl compound as a redox active material for metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination; preparing a cathode comprising a compound for metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-) coordination; and contacting the anode and the cathode with an electrolyte formed of an aqueous solution having a pH ranging from 2 to 12; wherein ionic charge carriers are metal ions that move from the anode to the cathode during discharge and back when charging, wherein the organic carbonyl compound comprises a structural formula chosen from the group consisting of (I), (II), and (III): ##STR00004## wherein Core has at least one structural formula chosen from the group consisting of (h) and (i): ##STR00005## Chain has at least one structural formula chosen from the group consisting of (l), (m), (n) and (o): ##STR00006## L is a moiety chosen from the group consisting of dicarbonyl, NH, O, S, CH.sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.3, (CH.sub.2).sub.4, (CH.sub.2).sub.6, 5/6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, and combinations thereof, n is at least 2, Al.sup.1 is at least one moiety chosen from the group consisting of naphthalene, perylene, and 5/6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the cathode comprises an inorganic or organic compound capable of intercalation by/coordination to at least one metal-ion chosen from the group consisting of lithium (Li), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and aluminum (Al), and combinations thereof.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the aqueous solution comprises at least one metal salt as solute and-an aqueous solvent which comprises at least 90 wt. % of water.

13. The method of claim 10, where the at least one organic carbonyl compound is not p-doped or n-doped and contains electrochemically reducible carbonyl groups.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein the core is coupled to at least one chemical group chosen from the group consisting of a polymer chain, an oligomer chain, dicarbonyl, NH, O, S, CH.sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.3, (CH.sub.2).sub.4, (CH.sub.2).sub.6, optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, and another core.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) For a detailed description of the disclosed embodiments, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:

(2) FIG. 1 illustrates representative molecular structures of the organic electrode materials (OEMs) for implementation as electrode materials for an AMIB;

(3) FIG. 2 illustrates O.sub.2/H.sub.2 evolution potential of water as a function of pH as compared to the potential and capacity of state-of-the-art anode materials for ALIBs (on the left) and the disclosed organic carbonyl compounds (OCCs) (on the right);

(4) FIG. 3 illustrates molecular structures of exemplary OEMs;

(5) FIG. 4 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PAQS in a 2.0 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 14 measured in a three-electrode cell at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C (Coulomb);

(6) FIG. 5 illustrates the comparison of the capacity and cycling stability of PAQS in alkaline metal salt-based electrolytes ([M.sup.+=5 M) at neutral (pH 7) and basic (pH 14) conditions at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(7) FIG. 6 illustrates the cycling performance of PAQS in a 2.0 M TEACl aqueous solution at pH 14 at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(8) FIG. 7 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PBDTD in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(9) FIG. 8 illustrates the cycling performance of PBDTD in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(10) FIG. 9 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of a full cell comprising PBDTD as the anode and LiMn.sub.2O.sub.4 as the cathode with a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution (pH 7) as the electrolyte at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(11) FIG. 10 illustrates the comparison of the capacity and cycling stability of PBDTD in sodium/alkaline earth metal salt-based electrolytes ([Na.sup.+]=5 M and [M.sup.2+]=2.5M, respectively) at pH 7 at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(12) FIG. 11 illustrates the rate capability of PBDTD in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH Tat the same rate for both charge and discharge;

(13) FIG. 12 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PBDTDS in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 13 measured in a three-electrode cell at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(14) FIG. 13 illustrates the rate capability of PBDTDS in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 13 at the same rate for both charge and discharge;

(15) FIG. 14 illustrates the cycling performance of PBDTDS in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 13 at a rate for charge and discharge of 10 C;

(16) FIG. 15 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of a full cell comprising PBDTDS as the anode and LiCoO.sub.2 as the cathode with a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution (pH 13) as the electrolyte at a rate for charge and discharge of 5 C;

(17) FIG. 16 illustrates the comparison of the capacity and cycling stability of PBDTDS in lithium salt-based electrolytes ([Li.sup.+]=5 M) at neutral (pH 7) and basic (pH 13) conditions at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(18) FIG. 17 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PBFFD in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(19) FIG. 18 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PBFFDS in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(20) FIG. 19 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PPQ in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 13 measured in a three-electrode cell at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(21) FIG. 20 illustrates the cycling performance of PPQ in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 13 at a rate for charge and discharge of 1 C;

(22) FIG. 21 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PPTO in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell. Rate for charge and discharge: 1 C;

(23) FIG. 22 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PNDI in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell. Rate for charge and discharge: 1 C;

(24) FIG. 23 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PNDIE in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell. Rate for charge and discharge: 1 C;

(25) FIG. 24 illustrates the rate capability of PNDIE in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7. Same rate for both charge and discharge;

(26) FIG. 25 illustrates the cycling performance of PNDIE in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7. Rate for charge and discharge: 10 C;

(27) FIG. 26 illustrates the comparison of the capacity and cycling stability of PNDIE in sodium/magnesium salt-based electrolytes ([Na.sup.+]=5 M and [Mg.sup.2+]=2.5M, respectively) at pH 7. Rate for charge and discharge: 1 C;

(28) FIG. 27 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PNDIB in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell. Rate for charge and discharge: 1 C;

(29) FIG. 28 illustrates the charge-discharge profile of PPDIE in a 2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 aqueous solution at pH 7 measured in a three-electrode cell. Rate for charge and discharge: 1 C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(30) OVERVIEW: Generally, electrical energy storage devices include capacitors and batteries. While both have various applications, batteries are preferred in the computer and electric vehicle industries for their cyclability and energy/power density. Batteries and particularly secondary or rechargeable batteries are configured as one or more electrochemical cells capable of converting electrical energy into chemical energy during charging and converting chemical energy into electric energy during discharging. In operation of most conventional batteries, the cathode and anode undergo compositional changes during discharging that are restored during charging. The medium through which the electrodes are electrically coupled is the electrolyte. Currently, solutions of salts, bases, and acids in aqueous/non-aqueous solvents are used as electrolytes in secondary batteries.

(31) The present disclosure relates to configurations of aqueous electrolyte batteries. Aqueous electrolyte batteries may provide design options that are not available in organic electrolyte-based battery configurations, such as but not limited to LIBs. More specifically, AMIBs have improved safety and flexibility in vehicle design at reduced system costs compared to LIBs because AMIBs including aqueous lithium-ion batteries (ALIB) use the highly reversible ion-intercalation principle of conventional LIBs but with lower-cost, nonflammable aqueous electrolytes.

(32) Further, the present disclosure relates to battery configurations including at least one electrode comprising OEMs including but not limited to, OCCs. The OEMs of the present disclosure are configurable to operate as both the anode and cathode or to couple with existing cathodic and anodic materials, including but not limited to lithium mixed oxides. In these configurations, the OEM applications in AMIBs demonstrate inorganic and organic hybrid redox couples. As disclosed herein, these redox couples appear to satisfy certain technical performance targets for energy density both in weight and in volume. Further, these properties are maintained in AMIB configurations comprising at least one organic electrode. Thus, organic electrode AMIB configurations disclosed herein represent an additional reduction in the cost of producing a battery, without reduction in cyclability and energy/power density.

(33) ORGANIC ELECTRODE MATERIALS: FIG. 1 illustrates representative molecular structures of the exemplary OEMs for implementation as electrode materials for an AMIB. Generally, OCCs are used as the anodic material for an AMIB. The OCCs are characterized by reversibly reducible RC(O)R groups. Suitable OCCs comprise at least one structural formula illustrated in FIG. 1. The three structural formulas comprise (I) structures where electroactive cores are attached to a poly-/oligomer segment, (II) structures where electroactive cores are linked with linkers in-between, and (III) structures where electroactive cores are directly connected to one another. In the structural formulas (I), (II), and (III), the core comprises carbonyl group. With respect to the structural formula (I) the chain comprises any polymer or oligomer. Likewise, in structural formula (II), L comprises a moiety chosen from the group consisting of dicarbonyl, NH, O, S, CH.sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.2, (CH.sub.2).sub.3, (CH.sub.2).sub.4, (CH.sub.2).sub.6, optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, and biaryls consisted of two identical or different optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups. Without limitation, n indicates the average number of repeating units in the formula. The average number of repeats is at least 2.

(34) FIG. 1 likewise illustrates exemplary core structures (a) through (m) that fit within the three OCC structural formulas (I)-(III). In the core structures (a) through (m), Ar.sup.1 comprises at least one moiety chosen from the group consisting of naphthalene, perylene, optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups, and biaryls consisted of two identical or different optionally substituted 5-6 membered aryl/heteroaryl groups. Likewise, in the core structures (a)-(m), R comprises at least one moiety chosen from H, CH.sub.3, or C.sub.2H.sub.5.

(35) These OCCs are generally insoluble even at the reduced state and show stable capacity retention in both organic and aqueous electrolytes. The employed electroactive moieties without limitation include 1,4-benzoquinone, 1,2-benzoquinone, 1,2-bicarbonyl, diimide, and their derivatives. Aromatic rings can be incorporated to fine-tune the properties of the OCCs. Without limitation by any particular theory, the structural variety and design strategy of organic compounds permit predictable tuning of their redox potential in a wide range in order to fulfill specific device requirements. The reduced form of these structures coordinated to metal-ions, which are prepared via (electro)chemical reduction or formed in situ during charge-discharge, are also within the scope of the disclosure. The disclosed OCCs can demonstrate the characteristics for implementation as electrode materials for ALIBs. As noted hereinabove, these OEMs are merely representative and related configurations of the OEMs are considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

(36) ORGANIC ELECTRODE POTENTIALS: Referring now to FIG. 2, the O.sub.2/H.sub.2 evolution potential of an exemplary aqueous electrolyte model, in this case water, as a function of pH is illustrated. More specifically, the thermodynamic stability of water is illustrated by solid lines and the dashed lines show the kinetic stability range for aqueous electrolytes considering the over-potentials for gas evolution. In exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the organic electrode materials are selected and configured to have a potential within the range of the kinetic stability, including the gas evolution over-potentials, at a pH 7.

(37) The electrochemical characteristics of the OCCs illustrated in FIG. 1 are summarized in TABLE 1. Exemplary OCCs include anthraquinone (AQ), benzofuro[5,6-b]furan-4,8-dione (BFFD), 2,5-dimethoxy-1,4-benzoquinone (DMBQ), poly(2,5-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoquinonyl sulfide (PDBS), poly(pyromellitic diimide) (PI), 5,7,12,14-pentacenetetrone (PT), and pyrene-4,5,9,10-tetraone (PTO), without limitation.

(38) TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 OCC Electrochemical Characteristics Theoretical Observed Average Number Specific Specific Reduction of Capacity Capacity Potential (V vs. Name MW carbonyls (mAh/g) (mAh/g) Li/Li.sup.+) AQ 208.2 2 257 239 2.27 BFFD 188.1 2 285 257 2.45 DMBQ 168.2 2 319 312 2.60 PDBS 170.1 2 315 228 2.05 PI 257.2 4 417 237 2.08 PT 338.3 4 319 300 2.10 PTO 262.2 4 409 360 2.59

(39) Referring still to FIG. 2, the potentials of known metal oxide electrodes and exemplary OEMs as a function of specific capacity are illustrated. Generally speaking metal oxide electrodes exhibit specific capacities that do not exceed 200 mAh/g. The metal oxide electrodes are conventionally found in ALIBs. However, the specific capacities of the OEMs are greater than 200 mAh/g. In FIG. 1, the exemplary OEMs include the previously discussed OCCs. Thus, a battery configured with the OEMs disclosed herein provides a method of increasing the specific capacity of a battery.

(40) TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 OEM Electrochemical Characteristics Number Average Reduction of Active Theoretical Specific Potential Name MW Carbonyls Capacity (mAh/g) (V vs. Ag/AgCl) PAQS 238 2 225 0.80 PBDTD 218 2 246 0.45 PBDTDS 250 2 214 0.42 PBFFD 186 2 288 0.38 PBFFDS 218 2 246 0.34 PPQ 206 2 260 0.45 PPTO 260 4 412 0.46 PNDI 264 2 203 0.44 PNDIE 292 2 183 0.56 PNDIB 340 2 158 0.55 PPDIE 242 2 221 0.79

(41) ELECTRODE AND CELL FABRICATION: The OEM electrodes are fabricated by coating a support with a mixture containing at least one OEM. Generally, the mixture is coated onto a support and pressed and/or dried to form the electrode. Alternatively, the mixture may be compressed in contact with a foil, foam, or mesh. More specifically, the mixture comprises a dispersion of at least one OEM, conductive carbon, and at least one fluoropolymer. In certain configurations, the mixture comprises a polar solvent such as but not limited to N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), ethanol, and isopropanol. The electrochemical characteristics of some exemplary OEMs are summarized in TABLE 2.

(42) The mixture comprises a dispersion of OEM, conductive carbon, and a fluoropolymer. The concentration of the OEM is between about 20 wt. % and about 90 wt. %, and in certain configurations between about 30 wt. % and about 80 wt. %. The conductive carbon concentration is between about 5 wt. % and about 75 wt. %, and in certain configurations between about 10 wt. % and about 60 wt. %. The fluorpolymer concentration is between about 1 wt. % and about 30 wt. % and in certain configurations between about 5 wt. % and about 25 wt. %. The fluoropolymer may comprise at least one chosen from polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

(43) The support is configured to be a current collector. Non-limiting examples of current collectors comprise a metallic foam, foil, or mesh. The metal of the foam, foil, or mesh comprises at least one transition metal, including Group VIB, VIIB, VIII, IB, IIB, and IIIA metals. In configurations, the foam, foil, or mesh comprises a Group VIII metal, such as but not limited to nickel (Ni); alternatively, the foam, foil, or mesh comprises a Group IIIA metal such as but not limited to aluminum (Al). Further, the foam, foil, or mesh may be coated by a second metal chosen from the transition metal groups listed hereinabove. Likewise, the second metal is a Group VIII metal, such as but not limited to nickel (Ni). In alternative configurations, the foam, foil, or mesh may comprise stainless steel.

(44) Generally, the mixture coats the support and is pressed and/or dried to form the OEM electrode. Alternatively, the mixture may be forced into the support prior to drying. Occasionally, pressure is used to force the mixture into the foam or mesh supports. In certain instances, the pressure comprises mixture injections, compression of the mesh or foam, and the compression of mesh or foam loaded with the (dried) mixture. Pressure may include 0.3-2.0 MPa without limitation.

(45) ORGANIC-METAL ION HYBRIDS BATTERIES: In some configurations, the disclosed electrode materials are configurable for implementation in AMIBs. In these configurations, the batteries comprise an electrode capable of intercalation by/coordination to at least one metal-ion chosen from the group comprising lithium (Li), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and in certain instances aluminum (Al). Again, without limitation by any particular theory, the batteries configured thusly use a group of electrochemical redox couples that leverage metal-ion battery electrode chemistry characteristics to potentially provide a reliable and high capacity electrode material to meet certain technical performance parameters for AMIBs in commercial applications.

(46) COUNTER ELECTRODE FABRICATION: Counter electrodes containing compounds capable of metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination may be utilized. Generally, the counter electrodes comprise between about 50 wt. % and about 100 wt. % of compounds capable of metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination; alternatively the counter electrodes comprise between about 60 wt. % and about 95 wt. % metal-containing compounds. For the fabrication of aqueous lithium-ion batteries, non-limiting exemplary compounds capable of metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination include LiCoO.sub.2, LiMn.sub.2O.sub.4, LiNi.sub.1/3Co.sub.1/3Mn.sub.1/3O.sub.2, LiNi.sub.0.8Co.sub.0.15Al.sub.0.05O.sub.2, lithium-rich mixed oxides, LiNi.sub.0.5Mn.sub.1.5O.sub.4 Ni(OH).sub.2, MnO.sub.2, carbonyl compounds, organosulfur compounds, radical compounds, non-conjugated polymers, and combinations thereof. In instances, the counter-electrodes are fabricated in a mixture method as described hereinabove. Additionally, aqueous solutions of one or a mixture of lithium salts such as but not limited to LiNO.sub.3, Li.sub.2SO.sub.4, LiCl, and LiOH ([Li.sup.+]=0.5-14.0 M) are used as the electrolyte.

(47) In certain configurations, the disclosed batteries uses a group of electrochemical redox couples that leverage lithium-ion battery cathode chemistry characteristics to potentially provide a reliable and high capacity anode material to meet certain technical performance parameters for ALIBs in commercial applications. Certain exemplary OEMs that are sustainable, low-cost, and high-energy are illustrated in FIG. 3. One exemplary electrochemical redox couple of LiMn.sub.2O.sub.4/PAQS has the following reactions illustrated in Equation 1 [EQ 1] and Equation 2 [EQ 2].
C.sub.14H.sub.6O.sub.2S(PAQS)+xLi.sup.++xe.sup.C.sub.14H.sub.6O.sub.2SLi.sub.x(0.8 V vs. Ag/AgCl) [EQ 1] Anode:
LiMn.sub.2O.sub.4Li.sub.1-xMn.sub.2O.sub.4+xLi.sup.++xe.sup.(1.0 V vs. Ag/AgCl) [EQ 2] Cathode:

(48) Specifically, the aqueous electrolytes are composed of at least one metal salt as solute and an aqueous solvent which comprises at least 90 wt. % of water. The aqueous electrolytes may have a pH between about pH 2 and about pH 15. Alternatively, the aqueous electrolytes may have a pH between about pH 6 and about pH 14. In further configurations, the electrolytes may be chosen to most stably support the operation of the electrodes, including a cathode capable of metal-ion (de)intercalation/(un-)coordination and an OEM electrode.

(49) Further, manipulation of the chemical structure, molecular weight, and degree of crystallinity of the OEMs provides increased stability and robustness, particularly in the instances of mechanical trauma or thermal runaway. Thus, the disclosed OEMs may be incorporated into an AMIB such that special protection is unneeded in commercial applications, including vehicular and industrial applications. Additionally, in the present disclosure, the battery configurations are multifunctional. Relating to the stability of the OEMs and the tunability of the electrolytes in the secondary or rechargeable, aqueous, metal-ion battery, the battery may be configurable as a structural member. Exemplary structural members may comprise frames, supports, trusses, chassis, or other components of electrical and mechanical equipment.

(50) To further illustrate various illustrative embodiments of the present invention, the following examples are provided.

EXAMPLES

Example 1

PAQS (see FIG. 3a)

(51) A mixture of PAQS (70 wt. %), Super-P carbon (20 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.0 M) and LiOH (1.0 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.80 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 4). PAQS delivers reversible cycling performance when working in sodium (2.0 M NaCl+1.0 M NaOH)/potassium (2.0 M KCl+1.0 M KOH) salt-based electrolytes (FIG. 5). In particular, when tetraethylammonium (TEA) (2.0 M TEACl+1.0 M TEAOH) was used, no noticeable capacity decrease was observed after 50 cycles at 1 C rate (for both charge and discharge) (FIG. 6). A lower capacity was obtained when a neutral lithium salt-based electrolyte (2.5 M Li.sub.2SO.sub.4) was used.

Example 2

PBDTD (see FIG. 3b)

(52) A mixture of PBDTD (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.45 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 7). Rate performance tested in two-electrode coin cells showed a 93% capacity retention at 10 C compared to that obtained at 1 C (FIG. 8). At 1 C rate (for both charge and discharge), no noticeable capacity decrease was observed after 50 cycles (FIG. 9). Alternatively, a mixture of LiMn.sub.2O.sub.4 (80 wt. %), Super-P carbon (10 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the counter electrode. Coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average discharge potential of 1.02 V (FIG. 10). PBDTD also delivered stable cycling performance when working in sodium (5 M NaNO.sub.3)/calcium (2.5 M Ca(NO.sub.3).sub.2) salt-based electrolytes (FIG. 11). When a magnesium salt-based electrolyte was used, a lower capacity but similar cycling stability was obtained.

Example 3

PBDTDS (see FIG. 3c)

(53) PBDTDS was synthesized with a similar method as that for PAQS. A mixture of PBDTDS (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) and LiOH (0.1 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.42 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 12). Rate performance tested in two-electrode coin cells showed 91% and 60% of capacity retention at 10 C and 100 C, respectively (FIG. 13). At 10 C rate (for both charge and discharge), 93% of the original capacity was maintained after 2000 cycles (FIG. 14). Alternatively, a mixture of LiCoO.sub.2 (80 wt. %), Super-P carbon (10 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the counter electrode. Coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average discharge potential of 0.96 V (FIG. 15). When a neutral electrolyte was used, a lower capacity was obtained (FIG. 16).

Example 4

PBFFD (see FIG. 3d)

(54) PBFFD was synthesized with a similar method as that for PBDTD. A mixture of PBFFD (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.38 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 17).

Example 5

PBFFDS (see FIG. 3e)

(55) PBFFDS was synthesized with a similar method as that for PAQS. A mixture of PBFFDS (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.34 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 18).

Example 6

PPQ (see FIG. 31)

(56) PPQ was synthesized with a similar method as that for PBDTD. A mixture of PPQ (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) of LiOH (0.1 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.45 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 19). At 1 C rate (for both charge and discharge), no capacity degradation was observed after 200 cycles (FIG. 20).

Example 7

PPTO (see FIG. 3g)

(57) PPTO was synthesized with a similar method as that for PBDTD. A mixture of PPTO (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.46 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 21).

Example 8

PNDI (see FIG. 3h)

(58) A mixture of PNDI (30 wt. %), Super-P carbon (60 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.44 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 22).

Example 9

PNDIE (see FIG. 3i)

(59) A mixture of PNDIE (60 wt. %), Super-P carbon (30 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.56 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 23). Rate performance tested in two-electrode coin cells showed a 84% capacity retention at 10 C compared to that obtained at 1 C (FIG. 24). At 10 C rate (for both charge and discharge), no noticeable capacity decrease was observed after 2000 cycles (FIG. 25). PNDIE also delivered stable cycling performance when working in sodium (5 M NaNO.sub.3)/magnesium (2.5 M Mg(NO.sub.3).sub.2) salt-based electrolytes (FIG. 26).

Example 10

PNDIB (see FIG. 3j)

(60) A mixture of PNDIB (60 wt. %), Super-P carbon (30 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.55 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 27).

Example 11

PPDIE (see FIG. 3k)

(61) A mixture of PPDIE (60 wt. %), Super-P carbon (30 wt. %), and polytetrafluoroethylene (10 wt. %) was pressed into a stainless steel mesh to form the working electrode. A glass fiber paper wet with an aqueous solution of Li.sub.2SO.sub.4 (2.5 M) is placed between the working electrode and a piece of activated carbon cloth serving as the counter electrode. Three-electrode coin cells are fabricated to demonstrate an average reduction potential of 0.79 V vs Ag/AgCl (FIG. 28).

(62) Variations, combinations, and/or modifications of the embodiment(s) and/or features of the embodiment(s) disclosed herein made by a person having ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the disclosure. Alternative embodiments that result from combining, integrating, and/or omitting features of the embodiment(s) are also within the scope of the disclosure. Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly stated, such express ranges or limitations should be understood to include ranges or limitations of like magnitude falling within the expressly stated ranges or limitations (e.g., from about 1 to about 10 includes, 2, 3, 4, etc.; greater than 0.10 includes 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, etc.). For example, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit, R.sub.l, and an upper limit, R.sub.u, is disclosed, any number falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, the following numbers within the range are specifically disclosed: R=R.sub.1+k*(R.sub.uR.sub.l), wherein k is a variable ranging from 1 percent to 100 percent with a 1 percent increment, i.e., k is 1 percent, 2 percent, 3 percent, 4 percent, 5 percent, . . . 50 percent, 51 percent, 52 percent . . . 95 percent, 96 percent, 97 percent, 98 percent, 99 percent, or 100 percent. Moreover, any numerical range defined by two R numbers as defined in the above is also specifically disclosed. Use of the term optionally with respect to any element of a claim means that the element is required, or alternatively, the element is not required, both alternatives being within the scope of the claim. Use of broader terms such as comprises, includes, and having means including but not limited to and should be understood to also provide support for narrower terms such as consisting of, consisting essentially of, and comprised substantially of. Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above but is defined by the claims that follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and the claims are exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention. The discussion of a reference in the disclosure is not an admission that it is prior art, especially any reference that has a publication date after the priority date of this application. The disclosure of all patents, patent applications, and publications cited in the disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference, to the extent that they provide exemplary, procedural or other details supplementary to the disclosure.