Flexible lithium–oxygen battery based on a recoverable cathode

Abstract

Although flexible power sources are crucial for the realization next-generation flexible electronics, their application in such devices is hindered by their low theoretical energy density. Rechargeable lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) batteries can provide extremely high specific energies, while the conventional Li-O2 battery is bulky, inflexible and limited by the absence of effective components and an adjustable cell configuration. Here we show that a flexible Li-O2 battery can be fabricated using unique TiO2 nanowire arrays grown onto carbon textiles (NAs/CT) as a free-standing cathode and that superior electrochemical performances can be obtained even under stringent bending and twisting conditions. Furthermore, the TiO2 NAs/CT cathode features excellent recoverability, which significantly extends the cycle life of the Li-O2 battery and lowers its life cycle cost.