Synthesis of Layered Nanomaterials and Elucidation of Nanoconfinement Effects in Energy Storage and Conversion Applications

In energy storage and conversion applications, high performance can be achieved by maximizing nanomaterial utilization—ideally approaching 100 %. This study comprehensively investigates the preparation of layered nanomaterials and the effects of nanoconfinement on the performance of energy storage and conversion devices. Specifically, KyIrOx and KyPtOx layered materials were successfully synthesized via solid-state reactions, thereby expanding the library of oxide-layered compounds. Additionally, a free-standing nanosheet structure (2.5D) was fabricated using a macroporous carbon template. Quinone-based aromatic compounds were adsorbed into activated carbon micropores smaller than 1 nm, yielding an adsorption-controlled system. A model electrode study employing reduced graphite oxide demonstrated that the redox reversibility of redox-active aromatic compounds was improved with decreasing interlayer distance. This finding suggests that the redox reversibility can be tuned effectively by controlling the nanoscale spacing in electrode materials.