Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

In this study we describe the shape-controlled synthesis of lead oxide nanodendrites (NDs) via electrochemical methods in aqueous solution of PbNO3 with the assistance of polyethylene glycole (PEG) as a soft template, to achieve a superior active electrodes with enhanced charge storage capacity compared to conventional bulk PbO electrodes. The effects of the growth conditions such as concentrations of the reagents and applied potentials on the morphology and structure of as-prepared tree-like nanostructures have also been investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The morphology of the nanostructures mainly depends on the adjustable driving force of electrodeposition, such as the potential, the concentration of lead precursor (Pb2+), and the presence of inert electrolyte ions, while being modulated by PEG that contributes mainly to the finer structure in the shape-controlled synthesis. This unique structure provides an effective method for increasing the efficiency and capacity of the active material in lead-acid batteries.
Keywords: Electrodeposition, Lead oxide, Synthesis, Polyethylene glycol