KAIST researchers create defect-free graphene for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed a method to produce defect-free graphene (df-G) for lithium-ion batteries. This advancement addresses the challenge of maintaining structural integrity in large-scale graphene production, which has previously resulted in defects when fabricated in bulk. The team, led by Professors Jung-Ki Park and Hee-Tak Kim from the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, has successfully fabricated high-quality graphene without compromising volume.

The findings were published in the July 11, 2014 issue of Nano Letters, under the title "Defect-free, Size-tunable Graphene for High-performance Lithium Ion Battery." This research highlights the potential of defect-free graphene to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries, a critical component in energy storage technologies.

KAIST's previous discovery of graphene oxide liquid crystals in 2011 has significantly influenced global research, paving the way for advancements in graphene fiber production with high strength and thermal conductivity. These developments have extended to applications in thermal management materials, showcasing the versatility of graphene in various industries.