Fungal enzyme given catalytic role inside lithium–air battery

An image showing Trametes versicolor

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Metalloenzyme changes its structure in harmony with the pH of the battery, promoting oxygen reduction and evolution as required

Including an enzyme in a rechargeable lithium–air battery can improve the kinetics of internal reactions that previously limited the performance and durability of such electrochemical energy storage systems. This may nudge lithium–air batteries closer to powering electric vehicles and mobile devices.