Carbon nanotube buckypaper/MmNi5 composite film as anode for Ni/MH batteries

An efficient and cost-effective method has been developed to produce high quality buckypapers from multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The buckypapers were then used as a substrate for AB5 hydrogen storage alloy electrodes, and electrochemical performances of these composite films in Ni/MH batteries have been investigated. AB5 alloy was coated on the buckypaper using magnetron sputtering. The buckypapers prepared by our approach were thin, highly flexible and provided sufficient strength as substrates for the hydrogen storage alloy film. A good contact between the buckypaper and the MmNi5 alloy was established. The electrochemical results show that the buckypapers can be a versatile replacement for conventional metal substrates for the anode in Ni/MH batteries. They provide exceptional electrical conductivity and significant reduction in weight and cost. The obtained maximum discharge capacity of 276 mAh/g for BM-1 electrode is higher than what was previously obtained on electrode with metal substrate of 220 mAh/g. Amongst the two different thickness of AB5 film studied, it was found that the reduction of MmNi5 layer thickness enhanced the discharge capacity of the electrode, but the high rate discharge capability was irrelevant to the film thickness. However, the thicker film exhibits better chargeability and cycle stability. Thus all these are beneficial for the miniaturisation of the Ni/MH batteries.

► We investigate the electrochemical properties of AB5/buckypaper anode electrode in Ni/MH battery.
► We examine the effect of AB5 thickness on electrochemical properties of Ni/MH battery.
► Buckypaper is a versatile replacement for conventional metal substrate as anode in Ni/MH batteries.
► Thicker AB5 coating results in better cycle stability, whereas thinner coating results in higher discharge capacity.
► Thinner AB5 coating exhibits a maximum discharge capacity of 276 mAh/g.