Renewable Cathode Materials from Biopolymer/Conjugated Polymer Interpenetrating Networks

Lignin to the Rescue? The increasing demand for rechargeable batteries is putting a strain on the availability of certain key raw materials. Lignin is the second most common biopolymer and typically makes up 25% of wood. Lignin derivatives are also readily available as by-products from the pulp and paper industry. Milczarek and Inganäs (p. 1468 ) combined lignin derivatives, which are electronic insulators, with polypyrole, a conductive polymer, into an interpenetrating composite suitable for use as a cathode.