Glassy Embedded Solid-State Electrodes for High-Areal-Capacity Batteries
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-state battery cells face challenges in achieving high areal ampere-hour capacity, minimizing non-active material for high energy density, and providing effective ionically conductive solid-state separation between electrodes.
Innovation Solution
The development of a glassy embedded solid-state electrode assembly with a composite material structure composed of a porous electroactive network and a continuous Li ion conductive glassy sulfide medium, which encapsulates the electroactive network to form a robust, stable, and Li ion transparent three-dimensional interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If discretely fabricated component layers in stacked or wound construction are used, then battery cell assembly is simplified, but areal ampere-hour capacity and energy density are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrode active material network and solid electrolyte into a single composite electrode assembly where the electrolyte is embedded within the electrode structure itself, eliminating the need for separate discrete layers and enabling higher areal capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The composite electrode assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the electroactive component and the ion-conducting electrolyte medium, while also providing structural integrity and electrode separation when multiple assemblies are stacked
2Quantity of substance
If more non-active material is used in discrete layer construction, then structural integrity is maintained, but energy density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin continuous film of solid electrolyte embedded within the electrode structure to provide necessary ionic conduction and structural integrity with minimal non-active material volume, maximizing the ratio of active to non-active material
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode assembly utilizes a porous network structure of electroactive material that allows efficient ion transport pathways while maintaining structural integrity with minimal material, reducing the amount of non-active material needed
3Reliability
If solid-state separation is provided between electrodes, then safety and stability are improved, but ionic conductivity and charging rate are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates local regions of high ionic conductivity within the solid electrolyte matrix by embedding the electrolyte directly within the porous electrode structure, providing both separation stability and enhanced ion transport pathways where needed
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
This solution supports high areal ampere-hour capacity, minimizes non-active material for enhanced energy density, and provides effective ionically conductive solid-state separation in battery cells, leading to improved power output, reduced charging time, and increased cycle life.
Implementation Method 1
a continuous Li ion conductive glassy sulfide medium that encapsulates the electroactive network
Implementation Method 2
encapsulates the electroactive network on a first major surface to form a glassy cover region that extends into the depth of the network
Data Source
AI summary
Batteries, component structures and manufacturing methods, in particular including a glassy embedded battery electrode assembly having a composite material structure composed of interpenetrating material components including a porous electroactive network including a solid electroactive material, and a continuous glassy medium including a Li ion conducting sulfide glass, can achieve enhanced power output, reduced charging time and/or improved cycle life.