| Abstract Scope |
The integration of energy storage with load-bearing functionality in carbon-fiber-based structural batteries enables lightweight, multifunctional systems for electric vehicles and aerospace. However, current designs face limitations including low electronic conductivity, low cathode loading, and weak fiber/electrode interfaces. Here, we overcome these issues by engineering graphene-enhanced carbon fiber electrodes that deliver both high mechanical performance and improved electrochemical behavior.
A scalable, ethanol-based electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process was used to coat carbon fibers with LiFePO₄ and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), enhancing interfacial cohesion and conductivity. The electrodes achieved capacities of up to 126 mAh g⁻¹ with 93% retention after 500 cycles. Full-cell structural batteries using a solid structural battery electrolyte (SBE) operated stably for over 1000 cycles and an energy density of 30 Wh kg⁻¹, while maintaining an elastic modulus above 76 GPa. These results highlight graphene-enhanced structural composites as promising candidates for load-bearing, “massless” energy storage in future mobility systems. |