Sodium-embedded carbon nanowalls synthesized by Michigan Technological University researchers may improve the performance of solar cells and supercapacitors.

A scanning electron microscope image of sodium-embedded carbon reveals the nanowall structure and pores of the material.A scanning electron microscope image of sodium-embedded carbon reveals the nanowall structure and pores of the material.The electrical conductivity of the sodium-embedded carbon is reported to be two orders of magnitude greater than 3D graphene. The process developed to fabricate the material used a temperature-controlled reaction between sodium metal and carbon monoxide to create a black carbon powder that trapped sodium atoms. Sodium was demonstrated to be embedded inside the carbon instead of adhered on the surface of the carbon.

Only a relatively small amount of embedded sodium is required to result in high conductivity for large surface area carbon, the researchers say. This makes it a promising electrode material for energy devices like dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and supercapacitors.

In DSSC tests, the more costly platinum-based solar cell reached a power conversion efficiency of 7.89% which is considered standard. The solar cell using sodium-embedded carbon reached efficiencies of 11.03%.

To contact the author of this article, email GlobalSpeceditors@globalspec.com