High Density Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Batteries Self-Assembled from Graphite Oxide Nanoplatelets and Polyelectrolytes

The construction of a high-capacity intercalating cathode via an entirely new approach is reported—the self-assembly of nanometer-thick polyelectrolytes and graphite/graphite oxide nanoplatelets on a conducting substrate. The advantages of this approach as well as the charging and discharging behavior of a high-density (1232 mAhg–1 of graphitic carbon) rechargeable lithium-ion battery based on this cathode are described. This electrochemical cell holds commercial promise as it may be readily scaled up to an economically viable battery.