A novel three-dimensional hierarchical porous lead-carbon composite prepared from corn stover for high-performance lead-carbon batteries

In this work, a novel three-dimensional(3D) hierarchical porous lead-carbon composite (Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC) derived from corn stover biomass was prepared by chemical deposition coupled with pyrolysis to alleviate the problems associated with the high occurrence of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and irreversible sulfation of the negative electrode under a high-rate partial state of charge (HRPSoC). As an additive of negative electrode in lead-carbon battery. PbO, evenly distributed on the Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC composite, effectively inhibits the HER, acting as a nucleus for the active substance Pb, refining the grains of sponge Pb, and maintaining the high electrochemical active area of the electrode. The Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC composite with a high specific surface area and porosity possesses good ion channels, provides an ion reservoir, and effectively inhibits irreversible sulfation. As a result, the initial discharge capacity of the battery with Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC (164 mAh·g-1) is greater than that of the blank battery (109 mAh·g-1). The cycling life of the Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC battery (10120 cycles) is 9.4 times that of a blank battery (1073 cycles). Our work provides insights into how to regulate the specific surface area and porosity of lead-carbon additives and makes full use of biomass straw to provide new ideas for solving the environmental problems caused by straw incineration. It is the embodiment of the circular economy. [Display omitted] •Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC composite has high specific surface area and porosity.•The composite maintains the high electrochemically active area of the electrode.•Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC composite effectively inhibits the hydrogen evolution.•Nano-PbO@3DCSHPAC battery has excellent performance.•Make full use of biomass stover to alleviate the problems caused by incineration.