Layer by layer assemble of colloid nanomaterial and functional multilayer films for energy storage and conversion

The surface and interface of colloids nanomaterials (CNs) significantly impact on the electrochemical performance of energy storage and conversion devices, while engineering interface composites and structures is essential for enhancement performance of electrode materials. Herein we discuss about the most intriguing surface and interface self-assembly methods, layer-by-layer assembly technique to addressing the challenge of application of CNs and multilayer function film as an active material and an inactive component in the diverse fields from lithium ion batteries, supercapacitors, to the emerging area of lithium-sulfur batteries, and fuel cells through creating and engineering surface and interface structures with molecular level precise and tailor-made physicochemical properties. This chapter also presents the recent research development in surface and interface engineering of electrode materials comprising increase in contact interface by downsizing the particle size or incorporating porous or hierarchical or hollow structure and surface modification or functionalization of active site of electrode materials by colloids nanomaterials, carbon materials, polymer and other types of ionic and conductive types. Besides, new research area and future trend have also been investigated.