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Fe2O3 Catalysts Activating Size-Regulated Li2C2O4 for Efficient Cathode Prelithiation in Li Ion Hybrid Capacitors
Yao Xu1, Jiawei Zhang1, Huiying Wang1
1Key Laboratory of Engineering Dielectric and Applications (Ministry of Education), School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, P. R. China.
Chemsuschem
|May 11, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new method for prelithiation in lithium-ion hybrid capacitors (LICs) using recrystallized lithium oxalate with iron oxide catalysts. This approach significantly improves energy storage capacity and extends the lifespan of LIC devices.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Prelithiation is crucial for mitigating active lithium loss in lithium-ion hybrid capacitors (LICs) during initial cycling.
- Lithium oxalate (Li2C2O4) offers high lithium content and stability but suffers from slow kinetics and high decomposition potential.
- Addressing these limitations is key to enhancing LIC performance and longevity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an improved prelithiation additive for LICs by enhancing the electrochemical activity of lithium oxalate.
- To reduce the decomposition potential of lithium oxalate for safer and more efficient operation.
- To investigate the impact of the enhanced additive on the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and overall device performance.
Main Methods:
- A recrystallization strategy was employed for lithium oxalate, combined with Fe2O3 catalysts, creating R-LCO@Fe2O3.
- Electrochemical characterization techniques were used to evaluate the performance of LICs with and without the additive.
- Analysis of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) was performed to understand its formation and properties.
Main Results:
- The R-LCO@Fe2O3 additive lowered the decomposition potential of lithium oxalate from 4.76 V to 4.28 V vs. Li+/Li.
- LICs with R-LCO@Fe2O3 showed a significant increase in initial discharge capacity (42.15 mAh g-1 vs. 23.67 mAh g-1) and improved charge capacity (288.27 mAh g-1).
- The additive promoted a LiF-rich SEI, leading to stable cycling over 2500 cycles with 75.93% capacity retention, compared to 31.59% for un-added devices after 325 cycles.
Conclusions:
- The developed recrystallization and catalytic strategy effectively enhances lithium oxalate's electrochemical performance for prelithiation in LICs.
- The R-LCO@Fe2O3 additive improves capacity, extends cycle life, and promotes a beneficial SEI layer in LICs.
- This method presents a scalable, cost-effective approach for advanced prelithiation materials in energy storage applications.
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