Rechargeable hydrogen ion batteries employing dual carbon electrodes: A DFT-based design

The design and development of advanced energy storage systems have become critical in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. This study presents an innovative approach to designing rechargeable hydrogen ion batteries employing dual carbon electrodes and hydrogen gas as the electrolyte. The proposed system features Q-carbon as the positive electrode and another carbon-based material, cyclo[ n ]carbon, as the negative electrode. The unique properties of Q-carbon, such as high conductivity and surface reactivity, affirm its applicability as a potential electrode. The present study proclaimed that it has a high hydrogen ion (H + ) affinity, which complements the tailored hydrogen storage and charge transfer characteristics of the chosen negative electrode materials. This novel configuration leverages the lightweight and high-capacity potential of hydrogen ions combined with the structural and electronic versatility of carbon allotropes, offering a promising route to high-performance sustainable energy storage. Results indicate that the synergistic interaction between the hydrogen gas electrolyte and dual carbon electrodes enables efficient hydrogen ion intercalation and release, paving the way for the development of next-generation rechargeable hydrogen ion batteries. This study highlights the potential of carbon-based electrode materials and hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier, offering a significant step forward in the field of energy storage technologies.