Gel-Forming Battery Electrolyte for High-Temperature Ignition Suppression

The patent applies preliminary action by forming a protective gel layer on the electrode surfaces before thermal runaway can occur. The gel electrolyte containing epoxy and nitrile groups pre-establishes a stable interface that prevents subsequent ignition and explosion, addressing the safety issue before it arises rather than reacting to it after thermal runaway begins.

The patent converts the harmful thermal energy that would cause ignition into a beneficial gelation process. When temperature increases, the epoxy and nitrile groups undergo exothermic reactions that form a gel structure, which actually helps contain and stabilize the thermal energy rather than allowing it to propagate as explosion, thus converting a potentially harmful thermal event into a protective mechanism.

The patent applies local quality by creating different viscosity regions within the electrolyte system. The gel electrolyte forms a structured network with higher viscosity at the electrode interfaces where safety is most critical, while maintaining lower viscosity in the bulk electrolyte region to preserve ionic conductivity. This spatial differentiation of properties allows simultaneous optimization of both safety and power performance.

The patent utilizes parameter changes by incorporating temperature-responsive gelating agents that alter the electrolyte's physical state based on thermal conditions. At normal operating temperatures, the electrolyte maintains low viscosity for high ionic conductivity. When temperature rises during thermal runaway, the epoxy and nitrile groups undergo phase transition to form gel structures, increasing viscosity locally to suppress ignition while the overall system maintains sufficient ionic conductivity through the gel network.