Elastomeric Solid Electrolyte With 3D Plastic Crystal Ion Pathways
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-polymer electrolytes for metal batteries, such as those based on poly(ethylene oxide), lack sufficient ionic conductivity and stability for high-energy applications, and there is a need for enhanced mechanical properties and ion conduction methods.
Innovation Solution
A polymer composition comprising an elastomeric matrix with dispersed plastic crystals forms a three-dimensional interconnected phase, achieving ionic conductivity of at least 1.1 mS/cm at 20°C, and is formed by polymerizing a mixture of monomers, plastic crystals, and a salt, with optional cross-linking for improved mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based solid polymer electrolytes are used, then the electrolyte provides a stable solid structure for metal batteries, but the ionic conductivity is insufficient for stable operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines elastomeric polymer matrices with plastic crystal phases to create a composite solid polymer electrolyte. The elastomeric matrix provides mechanical stability and flexibility, while the dispersed plastic crystals form three-dimensional interconnected phases that provide ion conduction pathways, achieving both structural stability and sufficient ionic conductivity (at least 1.1 mS/cm at 20°C).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates localized ion-conducting regions by dispersing plastic crystals within the elastomeric matrix. The plastic crystals form three-dimensional interconnected phases at specific locations throughout the matrix, providing high ionic conductivity pathways while the surrounding elastomeric matrix maintains overall structural stability. This local differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of both stability and ionic conductivity.
2Quantity of substance
If organic and inorganic fillers are incorporated into the polymer matrix to improve ionic conductivity, then gel or hybrid SPEs are formed, but the mechanical properties and ionic conductivity need further enhancement for high-energy LMBs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent fundamentally changes the physical state and organizational structure of the electrolyte components by forming three-dimensional interconnected plastic crystal phases within the elastomeric matrix. This phase separation and interconnected structure creation transforms the material properties, achieving high ionic conductivity (at least 1.1 mS/cm at 20°C) while maintaining excellent mechanical properties through the elastomeric nature of the matrix.
3Reliability
If inorganic or organic solid-state electrolytes are used, then safety is improved by eliminating flammable organic solvents, but compatibility with current roll-to-roll manufacturing process and formation of smooth interface is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an elastomeric polymer matrix that inherently provides flexibility and softness, enabling the formation of smooth interfaces with electrodes. The elastomeric nature allows the electrolyte to conform to electrode surfaces, facilitating compatibility with roll-to-roll manufacturing processes while maintaining safety through the use of stable solid-state materials without flammable organic solvents.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The polymer composition exhibits enhanced ionic conductivity and mechanical stability, supporting the development of stable and efficient solid-polymer electrolytes for high-energy metal batteries.
Implementation Method 1
the polymer composition exhibits an ionic conductivity of at least about 1.1 mS/cm at about 20° C.
Implementation Method 2
a polymer composition formed by polymerizing a mixture comprising: a) one or more monomers of Formula (I), b) a plurality of plastic crystals; and c) a salt AB
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a polymer composition comprising a) a matrix comprising an elastomeric polymer; b) a plurality of plastic crystals dispersed within the matrix to form a three-dimensional interconnected phase of plastic crystals, and wherein the polymer composition exhibits an ionic conductivity of at least about 1.1 mS/cm at about 20° C. Also disclosed herein are electrochemical cells comprising the same and methods of making and using the same.