Gel Electrolyte Composition for High-Conductivity Safer Li-Metal Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable lithium-ion metal batteries face a fire risk due to the use of low-boiling-point solvents in liquid electrolytes, which can lead to volatility and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A gel electrolyte composition comprising diethylene glycol diethyl ether (DEGDE), a polymer, and a compound of formula (I) is used, which maintains high ionic conductivity while reducing fire risk through a high boiling point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a liquid electrolyte with low boiling point solvent is used, then high ionic conductivity is achieved, but fire risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the electrolyte from liquid to gel, and modifies the chemical composition by incorporating specific borate or aluminate compounds with particular R1 substituent groups. This transforms the electrolyte's properties to achieve both high ionic conductivity and fire safety through the gel matrix structure and molecular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite gel electrolyte system combining polymer matrix, borate/aluminate compounds, and specific solvent mixtures. This composite structure integrates the benefits of each component: the polymer provides structural stability and fire resistance, while the borate/aluminate compounds and solvents maintain high ionic conductivity
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a gel polymer electrolyte is used, then fire risk is reduced, but ionic conductivity may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the gel electrolyte's molecular structure by selecting specific borate or aluminate compounds with defined R1 substituents (such as alkyl, aryl, or fluoroalkyl groups) and controlling the polymer matrix composition. These parameter changes enable the gel to achieve ionic conductivity comparable to liquid electrolytes while maintaining fire safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces specific solvent compounds as intermediaries within the gel matrix to facilitate ion transport. These solvents act as mediators between the polymer network and the borate/aluminate salts, ensuring high ionic conductivity is maintained despite the gel's more structured, less fluid environment
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 gel electrolyte achieves high ionic conductivity and reduces fire risk, supporting stable battery operation with improved safety.
Implementation Method 1
High ionic conductivity can be achieved by use of a liquid electrolyte
Implementation Method 2
use of liquid electrolytes, in particular with solvents having a low boiling point, carries a fire risk
Data Source
AI summary
A composition comprising a polymer; diethylene glycol diethyl ether; and a compound of formula (I);wherein: M+ is an alkali metal cation; X is Al or B; and R1 in each occurrence is independently a substituent wherein two R1 groups may optionally be linked to form a ring. A gel comprising the composition may be used as an electrolyte in a metal or metal ion battery.