Overview
- Chung-Ang University researchers report a dual-level design in Advanced Fiber Materials, combining MOF-derived hierarchical porous carbon nanofibers with low-coordinated Co–N3 single-atom sites.
- The carbon network supplies stable, well-wetted pore channels while atomically dispersed cobalt sites catalyze polysulfide adsorption and conversion.
- Embedding single cobalt atoms in a low-coordinated N3 environment enhances redox kinetics and helps suppress the polysulfide shuttle effect.
- The material forms a free-standing, binder-free, flexible interlayer that was applied in pouch cells, maintained integrity under bending, and powered small devices in demonstrations.
- Lab tests cited by the authors show high-capacity retention and strong rate performance over hundreds of cycles, with potential applications noted for EVs, grid storage, and wearable electronics.