Clay-Templated Nanoporous Graphite Carbon Electrodes for Secondary Batteries

We propose to develop a novel type of graphite with high nanoscale porosity by pyrolysis of the precursor embedded in layered clays, with the possiblity of varying the pore size and pore density. In Phase I, we will conduct a feasibility study of the process combined with a molecular modeling effort to predict the diffusion rate of lithium into the material as a function of its porosity. first, we will synthesize the graphite material using this technique, characterize it to determine its conductivity, morphology, pore size and surface area. Based on the data obtained in this preliminary effort, we will calculate the diffusion rate of lithium then vary the pore size and morphology in our calculations for optimization of the material. A phase II program will be focused on the optimization process of the materials and testing in a lithium secondary battery setup. This process will lead to nanoporous graphite electrodes with a high surface area and a morphology which allows for the ion diffusion in and out of the material with high rates. This will result in preserving the structural integrity of the graphite with no significant exfoliation upon aging as is the case with graphite in general.