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A research team from Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea has unveiled a new lithium metal battery that incorporates a triple-layer solid polymer electrolyte, significantly improving fire safety and extending the battery’s lifespan. This breakthrough, published in the journal Small, is poised to revolutionize applications in electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems.
Traditional solid polymer electrolyte batteries face challenges related to poor electrode contact and dendrite formation—tree-like lithium structures that grow during charge cycles. These dendrites can short-circuit the battery, posing a serious fire hazard. To address this, the research team developed a triple-layer electrolyte with enhanced safety features.
According to TechXplore, the triple-layer structure consists of distinct layers, each with a specific function. The central layer, reinforced with zeolite, provides the battery with mechanical strength. The outer layers feature a soft surface to ensure excellent contact with the electrodes, facilitating the smooth movement of lithium ions. This structure improves the battery’s performance by preventing dendrite growth and enhancing energy transfer rates.
One of the key innovations is the addition of decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), a fire-retardant material that can extinguish the battery in case of a fire, significantly reducing the risk of hazardous situations. The electrolyte also includes a high concentration of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI), which accelerates the movement of lithium ions, enhancing the overall battery efficiency.
In testing, the new battery retained 87.9% of its original performance after 1,000 charge-discharge cycles—far surpassing the typical 70-80% retention seen in conventional batteries. This makes it not only safer but also more durable, a critical advantage for long-term use in various sectors.
Dr. Kim, the lead researcher, emphasized the importance of this innovation in advancing the commercialization of lithium metal batteries. With its enhanced safety and durability, this battery technology has the potential to impact everything from small electronics to electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems.
