High-Performance Bioinspired Rechargeable Cement-Based Batteries for Low-Carbon Self-Powered Buildings

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Sustainable Building Technologies

Background:

• Cement-based batteries (CEMBs) integrate energy storage and structural functions for sustainable buildings.
• Limited capacity and cycle life hinder CEMB applications due to ion transport tortuosity and interface kinetics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overcome performance limitations in CEMBs by designing vertically aligned pore channels.
• To enhance ion transport and electrochemical performance while maintaining mechanical integrity.

Main Methods:

• A bioinspired design mimicking conifer tracheids was employed to create vertically aligned pores in the cement matrix.
• Electrochemical performance (capacity, cycle life, conductivity) and mechanical strength were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The bioinspired design reduced ion transport tortuosity from 7.80 to 2.86, increasing ion conductivity fourfold to 32.7 mS cm⁻¹.
• CEMBs achieved a capacity of 114 mAh g⁻¹ and retained 63.2% after 300 cycles, outperforming traditional CEMBs.
• Mechanical strength was maintained at 41.6 MPa, and dual functionality (charging and load-bearing) was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Bioinspired design with aligned pores significantly enhances CEMB performance and durability.
• This approach offers a scalable solution for self-powered, sustainable buildings.
• CEMBs show promise for integrating energy storage directly into building structures.