A Reversible and Higher-Rate Li-O₂ Battery

The rechargeable nonaqueous lithium-air (Li-O₂) battery is receiving a great deal of interest because, theoretically, its specific energy far exceeds the best that can be achieved with lithium-ion cells. Operation of the rechargeable Li-O₂ battery depends critically on repeated and highly reversible formation/decomposition of lithium peroxide (Li₂O₂) at the cathode upon cycling. Here, we show that this process is possible with the use of a dimethyl sulfoxide electrolyte and a porous gold electrode (95% capacity retention from cycles 1 to 100), whereas previously only partial Li₂O₂ formation/decomposition and limited cycling could occur. Furthermore, we present data indicating that the kinetics of Li₂O₂ oxidation on charge is approximately 10 times faster than on carbon electrodes.