Novel Organic Radical Battery Matrix

The organic radical battery (ORB) is a relatively new class of rechargeable battery (2001) that is based on the utilization of stable organic radical polymer materials that can undergo a reversible oxidation reaction. Due to the reversibility and fast kinetics of the radical self-exchange reaction, the organic radical battery has proven to exhibit the rapid charging capability and excellent cycle life as compared to traditional lithium ion battery electrodes. However in order for the ORBs to go beyond the niche applications, their inherent charge capacity and charge transfer limitations must be better understood and developed. Through a collaborative-interactive effort between electroanalytical, theoretical, synthetic organic and materials chemists, we systematically explore smart designed and synthetically realizable organic radical polymers applicable to batteries. The unique nature of the project is that these disruptive energy storage materials are focused on the utilization of first not only lithium (Li ⁺) but also ammonium (NH ₄ ⁺) and/or magnesium ion (Mg ⁺²) based electrolytes for energy storage.