Optical field modulation for enhanced ORR and OER activity in Li-O2 batteries based on 2D porous Co3O4 nanosheets

The photo-assisted strategy is viewed as a promising method to improve the ORR and OER performance of Li-O2 batteries. Nevertheless, designing a photocatalyst that ensures wide light absorption and minimizes the recombination of photoinduced electrons and holes is still a notable challenge. In this study, 2D porous Co3O4 nanosheets are synthesized as photocatalysts for photo-assisted Li-O2 batteries. Their unique structure improves surface area, facilitates O2 transport, and stores discharge products. Equally, the Co3O4 nanosheets exhibit strong light responsiveness and photocatalytic activity. Upon optical field, photoinduced electrons and holes are successfully separated on Co3O4 nanosheets, which promotes the formation and decomposition of Li2O2, respectively. Li-O2 cells using Co3O4 nanosheets display a low overpotential of 0.15 V and good cycling stability under optical field. These findings highlight the potential of Co3O4 nanosheets as photocatalysts for photo-assisted Li-O2 batteries, providing a foundation for future energy storage advancements.