Optical field modulation for enhanced ORR and OER activity in Li–O2 batteries based on 2D porous Co3O4 nanosheets

The photo-assisted strategy is viewed as a promising method to improve the ORR and OER performance of Li–O 2 batteries. Nevertheless, designing a photocatalyst that ensures wide light absorption and minimizes the recombination of photoinduced electrons and holes is still a notable challenge. In this study, 2D porous Co 3 O 4 nanosheets are synthesized as photocatalysts for photo-assisted Li–O 2 batteries. Their unique structure improves surface area, facilitates O 2 transport, and stores discharge products. Equally, the Co 3 O 4 nanosheets exhibit strong light responsiveness and photocatalytic activity. Upon optical field, photoinduced electrons and holes are successfully separated on Co 3 O 4 nanosheets, which promotes the formation and decomposition of Li 2 O 2 , respectively. Li–O 2 cells using Co 3 O 4 nanosheets display a low overpotential of 0.15 V and good cycling stability under optical field. These findings highlight the potential of Co 3 O 4 nanosheets as photocatalysts for photo-assisted Li–O 2 batteries, providing a foundation for future energy storage advancements.