PEDOT-coated rice husk-based activated carbon: Boosting lead-acid battery performance

Despite the surge in novel energy storage systems, lead-acid batteries remain entrenched in the market, chiefly attributed to their well-established technology, affordability, and dependable safety profile. Yet, they are not without shortcomings, notably their limited energy density and abbreviated cycle life. The profound impact of positive electrode materials on lead-acid batteries is undeniable, as these materials directly dictate the batteries' charging and discharging efficiency, energy density, cycle longevity, and overall stability. Here we report on an innovative positive active material additive, wherein the conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is coated onto rice husk-based activated carbon (RHAC) surfaces via in-situ polymerization in solution to form a composite material (PEDOT@RHAC). Astonishingly, lead-acid batteries fortified with PEDOT@RHAC within their positive plates showcased remarkable electrochemical prowess. Incorporating PEDOT@RHAC into the positive plates of lead-acid batteries has demonstrated exceptional electrochemical performance. The enhanced deep cycling capability of these batteries is evident, with a substantial increase in cycle life by 2.08 times and an augmentation in discharge capacity by 1.3 times compared to the control batteries. This positive electrode additive plays a pivotal role in augmenting the overall performance and extending the lifespan of lead-acid batteries, potentially paving the way for their broader commercial application.