A research team led by Min-Chuan Wang, Associate Researcher at the National Atomic Research Institute, has successfully developed a high-safety, high-energy-density gel solid-state electrolyte lithium battery technology. This battery not only boasts higher ionic conductivity but also effectively suppresses the growth of lithium dendrites, significantly enhancing safety and cycle life.
Concerns with Liquid Electrolytes: Safety Risks and Lifespan Limitations
Traditional lithium batteries, widely used in electronics and electric vehicles, typically utilize liquid organic electrolytes, which pose serious safety risks. Under external impact, overcharging, or short circuits, these liquid electrolytes can decompose, generating excessive heat that may lead to fires or even explosions. Furthermore, the volatility of liquid electrolytes contributes to capacity degradation, reducing battery lifespan.
Gel Solid-State Electrolytes: Safe, Efficient, and More Reliable
Liu Shang-En, Group Leader at the Institute, explained that gel solid-state electrolyte technology uses high-flashpoint organic solvents and solid polymer materials such as polyacrylonitrile (PAN) along with flame retardants. With the aid of high-polarity materials, lithium salts are separated into positive and negative ions, allowing the electrolyte to reach an ionic conductivity of 10^-4 S/cm at room temperature—tens of times higher than traditional gel solid-state electrolytes, which require temperatures above 60°C to operate. This enhancement not only improves charging speed but also increases energy density. Additionally, the solid-state characteristic of the gel electrolyte effectively inhibits the growth of lithium dendrites, reducing the risk of short circuits.
Laboratory tests have shown that the battery retains 84.3% capacity under a 1C charge-discharge rate, demonstrating its fast-charging and rapid-discharging capabilities. Furthermore, the gel solid-state lithium battery remains stable even at high temperatures of 80°C, meeting the demands of the automotive market for high-temperature performance. The National Atomic Research Institute has successfully applied this technology to large-capacity 3.8Ah lithium battery cells, validating its practical feasibility.
Industry-Academia Collaboration Accelerates Commercialization and Promises Industry Growth
Dr. Tian-Xiang Xue noted that this technology has already been granted multiple patents and is in collaborative development with domestic manufacturers to accelerate commercialization. This innovation not only enhances the safety of lithium batteries but also increases their energy density and cycle life, supporting the rapid growth of industries such as electric vehicles and wearable devices and contributing to carbon neutrality goals. The team plans to continue refining the technology and working closely with industry partners to advance the commercial application of gel solid-state lithium batteries.
Resource (mandarin): 耐高溫膠固態電解質鋰電池 快充快放不短路
