Lithium–oxygen (Li–O 2 ) batteries hold transformative potential for next-generation energy storage due to their ultra-high theoretical energy density (~3.5 kWh kg -1 ). However, their practical deployment is hindered by poor cycle life caused by singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ) generation, which triggers parasitic reactions and degrades cell components. Now, a multidisciplinary team led by Prof. Dong Ha Kim (Ewha Womans University) and Prof. Filipe Marques Mota (University of Lincoln) has introduced chiral cobalt oxide nanosheets (Co 3 O 4 NSs) as cathode materials that suppress 1 O 2 formation through the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect, unlocking unprecedented stability in Li–O 2 systems.
Why Singlet Oxygen Suppression Matters
Innovative Design and Features
Applications and Future Outlook
This pioneering study establishes chiral electrocatalysis as a new design paradigm for controlling reactive oxygen species in energy storage. By merging spintronics with electrochemistry, it opens a new frontier in high-energy, long-life batteries essential for electric aviation, grid storage, and sustainable energy futures.
Stay tuned for more breakthroughs from Prof. Dong Ha Kim, Prof. Filipe Marques Mota, and their global collaborators!
Nano-Micro Letters
Experimental study
Chirality‑Induced Suppression of Singlet Oxygen in Lithium–Oxygen Batteries with Extended Cycle Life
25-Aug-2025