Recent research conducted by Yinbiao Li from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Wuxi Institute of Technology has shed light on enhancing the performance of aluminum-air (Al-air) batteries, a promising technology for clean energy applications. The study, published in the journal Crystals, explores how hatch spacing in the manufacturing process impacts the electrochemical activity and discharge performance of a composite anode made of cerium dioxide (CeO2) and aluminum alloy 6061 (Al6061).
Al-air batteries are known for their high efficiency, low cost, and environmentally friendly characteristics, making them attractive for various power applications. However, challenges such as the formation of passivation films and corrosion products on the anode surface can hinder their effectiveness. This research aims to tackle these issues by optimizing the manufacturing parameters of the anode using selective laser melting (SLM) technology.
The findings reveal that the hatch spacing during the SLM process significantly influences the quality and performance of the anode. Specifically, the study indicates that as hatch spacing increases, the density, corrosion resistance, and discharge performance of the anode initially improve before declining. The optimal hatch spacing identified is 0.13 mm, which results in a density of 98.39% and a notable decrease in self-corrosion rate. At this spacing, the anode also exhibits its highest electrochemical activity and discharge voltage, reaching up to −1.570 V.
Li explains, “When the hatch spacing is optimized, the anode can dissolve uniformly, minimizing defects that lead to uneven corrosion. This uniformity is crucial for enhancing the battery’s discharge activity.” The research highlights that fewer defects in the anode correlate with reduced active sites for self-corrosion reactions, thereby improving overall performance.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector, particularly in the development of Al-air batteries for commercial applications. By refining the manufacturing process and understanding the relationship between hatch spacing and anode performance, manufacturers can produce more efficient and reliable batteries. This advancement could pave the way for broader adoption of Al-air technology in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
The study’s insights into the effects of hatch spacing on the electrochemical properties of CeO2/Al6061 composites not only offer a pathway to improved battery performance but also highlight the potential for innovation in the energy storage sector. As the demand for efficient and eco-friendly energy solutions grows, this research represents a critical step towards overcoming the barriers currently faced by Al-air batteries.