Fabrication and evaluation of Ni-based air-cathode

Abstract

This study focused on investigating low-cost but high-performance catalyst materials used for the air cathode of the aluminum-air battery. Nickel, in the form of Ni(OH)2, was used as the catalyst because it is abundant and low-cost. The activated carbon sheet was used as the substrate to load the catalyst. The solvothermal synthesis method was used to synthesize the catalyst. The advantage of the solvothermal method is that the particle size can be reduced under high temperature and pressure conditions. The operation of some types of air-cathodes was examined. UV-ozone treatment of the air-cathode has also been investigated to enhance the performance of the battery.