Renewable Cathode Materials from Biopolymer/Conjugated Polymer Interpenetrating Networks

TLDR

The growing demand for rechargeable batteries strains key raw materials, but lignin—an abundant biopolymer and by‑product of the pulp and paper industry—offers a readily available alternative. The authors created an interpenetrating composite cathode by blending lignin derivatives with conductive polypyrole. Lignin to the Rescue?

Abstract

Lignin to the Rescue? The increasing demand for rechargeable batteries is putting a strain on the availability of certain key raw materials. Lignin is the second most common biopolymer and typically makes up 25% of wood. Lignin derivatives are also readily available as by-products from the pulp and paper industry. Milczarek and Inganäs (p. 1468 ) combined lignin derivatives, which are electronic insulators, with polypyrole, a conductive polymer, into an interpenetrating composite suitable for use as a cathode.