A team of researchers has created a safer, more durable lithium metal battery that could transform the way we use energy storage in devices like electric cars, smartphones, and even large-scale power grids.
Their innovative design uses a special triple-layer solid polymer electrolyte, which not only prevents fires and explosions but also extends the battery’s lifespan. The research was published in the journal Small.
Traditional lithium batteries have long struggled with a serious problem: dendrites. These are tiny, tree-like structures that form inside the battery during repeated charging and discharging cycles.
Dendrites can grow large enough to damage the battery’s structure, leading to short circuits, fires, or even explosions.
On top of that, conventional solid polymer batteries often have weak contact with the electrodes, which limits their performance.
The new battery solves these issues with a triple-layer structure.
Each layer of the electrolyte has a unique role. One layer improves the battery’s mechanical strength, making it sturdier. Another layer, which is softer, ensures good contact with the electrodes, allowing lithium ions to move smoothly.
The final layer contains advanced materials like decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), which can extinguish fires, and zeolite, which adds extra strength.
The electrolyte also includes a high concentration of lithium salt (LiTFSI) to speed up energy transfer.
Thanks to this design, the battery prevents dendrite formation and improves both safety and efficiency.
Tests showed that the new battery could retain 87.9% of its performance even after 1,000 charge-discharge cycles. In comparison, regular batteries typically hold only 70–80% of their performance after the same number of cycles.
What’s even more impressive is the battery’s built-in fire resistance. If exposed to fire, the materials in the battery can extinguish flames on their own, drastically reducing fire risks.
Dr. Kim, one of the researchers, said, “This breakthrough could help bring safer and more efficient lithium metal batteries to the market, making them a reliable choice for energy storage in everything from small gadgets to electric vehicles.”
This new battery design could be a game-changer for industries relying on efficient and safe energy storage. With improved durability and fire resistance, it offers a step forward in making batteries safer and more reliable for everyday use.
Source: KSR.
