LAUSR

Trees have an abundant network of channels for the multiphase transport of water, ions, and nutrients. Recent studies have revealed that multiphase transport of ions, oxygen (O2) gas, and electrons also plays a fundamental role in lithium–oxygen (Li–O2) batteries. The similarity in transport behavior of both systems is the inspiration for the development of Li–O2 batteries from natural wood featuring noncompetitive and continuous individual pathways for ions, O2, and electrons. Using a delignification treatment and a subsequent carbon nanotube/Ru nanoparticle coating process, one is able to convert a rigid and electrically insulating wood membrane into a flexible and electrically conductive material. The resulting cell walls are comprised of cellulose nanofibers with abundant nanopores, which are ideal for Li+ ion transport, whereas the unperturbed wood lumina act as a pathway for O2 gas transport. The noncompetitive triple pathway design endows the wood‐based cathode with a low overpotential of 0.85 V at 100 mA g−1, a record‐high areal capacity of 67.2 mAh cm−2, a long cycling life of 220 cycles, and superior electrochemical and mechanical stability. The integration of such excellent electrochemical performance, outstanding mechanical flexibility, and renewable yet cost‐effective starting materials via a nature‐inspired design opens new opportunities for developing portable energy storage devices.