electric field spinning: 1
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Use of Lignin, a Wood Component, as an Electronic Device Material
Molding of lignin and its conversion to a functional material
Lignin is second only to cellulose in availability, but the only way to effectively use lignin at present is to burn it for energy production. We are currently working on molding lignin into fibers and films for use as electrodes and separators in electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs).
Research
EDLCs are electronic devices that are attracting attention as next-generation storage batteries that can replace rechargeable batteries such as Li-ion batteries. The parts called electrodes and separators in EDLCs are made from polymeric materials, so we are conducting research on replacing these polymers with lignin, a major component of woody biomass. By forming lignin into microfibers through electrospinning and converting them into active carbon fibers, we have succeeded in producing the large surface area required for electrode materials. This has led to the production of electrodes with high energy and power densities. In addition, by converting lignin into a flexible polyester film, it became possible to prepare a material that exhibits the same performance as conventional separators. We are currently endeavoring to further improve the performance.
Yasumitsu Uraki Professor