Exploring the potential of polymer battery cathodes with electrically conductive molecular backbone

Abstract

Organic redox materials have the potential to radically shift the battery technology landscape. Here, the chemical synthesis of poly(2,5-dihydroxyaniline) with intrinsic electrical conduction and a theoretical energy storage capacity of 443 mA h g⁻¹ is detailed for the first time. The genuine intramolecular cross-hybridization of quinone redox and polyaniline conductor moieties leads to a subtle interplay between redox stability and the lithiation capacity with the underlying processes being discussed. Superior to the conventional electrode materials performances are expected upon further optimization of this novel class of organic redox materials with ion and electron conduction for energy storage.