Photonic Crystal Structures as a Basis for a Three-Dimensionally Interpenetrating Electrochemical-Cell System

A novel interpenetrating electrode structure is synthesized by sequential assembly of nanostructured components throughout the interconnected macropores of an inverse opal carbon monolith. Separation of electrodes by a thin polymer electrolyte film prevents hard shorts and permits intercalation and shuttling of Li ions between electrodes (see figure and inside cover).