Screening for positive electrodes for magnesium batteries: a protocol for studies at elevated temperatures

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• The all phenyl complex (APC) electrolyte is a known medium for magnesium batteries.
• High-temperature operation is desirable for enhanced battery performance and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the performance of the APC electrolyte at elevated temperatures.
• To evaluate potential positive electrode materials for magnesium batteries under high-temperature conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing tetraglyme as a solvent for the APC electrolyte.
• Employing a molybdenum current collector for high-temperature electrochemical testing.
• Examining electrode materials at temperatures up to 180 °C and voltages up to 2 V vs. Mg.

Main Results:

• The APC electrolyte demonstrates stability and functionality at 180 °C.
• Copper sulfide (CuS) exhibits auspicious properties as a conversion cathode material.
• Successful electrochemical examination of Mg battery positive electrode materials was achieved at high temperatures.

Conclusions:

• High-temperature operation of Mg batteries using APC electrolyte is feasible.
• CuS is identified as a promising cathode material for high-temperature magnesium battery applications.
• The developed methodology enables screening of cathode materials under demanding thermal conditions.