Solid-State Ion Conductor Composition for Dendrite-Resistant Batteries
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-state lithium electrolytes exhibit low ionic conductivity and instability when used with lithium metal negative electrodes, posing challenges for the development of high-energy density lithium batteries and safety concerns due to potential short-circuits from lithium metal dendrites.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state ion conductor comprising compounds of the form Li16+(5−n)*a−(2+m)*bM2−aXnaN8O1−bAmb, where M is Ta, Nb, or V, and X has specific oxidation states, offering improved ionic conductivity and stability, including the use of elements like Hf, Zr, and Si, and a method involving mechanochemical milling and heat treatment to prepare the ion conductor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high ionic conductivity solid-state electrolytes are used, then lithium ion conductivity is improved, but stability against lithium metal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite solid-state electrolyte materials combining multiple components (e.g., Li3PO4, Li2SiO3, and conductive additives) to achieve both high ionic conductivity and stability against lithium metal. The composite structure allows synergistic effects where each component contributes specific properties: the base ceramic provides stability while conductive additives enhance ion transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies key parameters of solid-state electrolytes including composition ratios, particle size distribution, and sintering conditions to optimize both ionic conductivity and lithium metal stability. By controlling Li content, doping levels, and microstructural parameters, the electrolyte achieves desired performance balance.
2Quantity of substance
If lithium metal is used as negative electrode, then energy density is improved, but safety deteriorates due to dendrite formation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces solid-state electrolytes as an intermediary layer between lithium metal negative electrode and other battery components. This intermediary prevents direct contact and potential short-circuits while maintaining efficient lithium ion transport, thus enabling high energy density without compromising safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs solid-state electrolytes with specific mechanical and chemical properties that preemptively counteract dendrite formation. The rigid solid electrolyte structure physically blocks dendrite penetration before short-circuits can occur, and its chemical stability prevents reactions that would promote dendrite growth.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional solid-state electrolytes are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but ionic conductivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes manufacturing parameters such as sintering temperature, pressure, and duration to achieve high ionic conductivity without requiring complex processing steps. By carefully controlling these parameters, the patent maintains ease of manufacture while significantly improving electrolyte performance.
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 solution provides lithium batteries with enhanced ionic conductivity and stability against lithium metal, reducing the likelihood of short-circuits and improving safety, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and mechanical integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the lithium conductivity of available solid-state electrolytes is significantly less than liquid alternatives
Implementation Method 2
a method involving mechanochemical milling and heat treatment to prepare the ion conductor
Implementation Method 3
a method involving mechanochemical milling and heat treatment to prepare the ion conductor
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state ion conductor includes a compound of Formula 1:Li16+(5−n)*a−(2+m)*bM2−aXnaN8O1−bAmb Formula 1wherein, in Formula 1, M is Ta, Nb, V, or a combination thereof, X is an element having an oxidation state of n, wherein n is +1, +2, +3, +4, or a combination thereof, A is an element having an oxidation state of m, wherein m is −1, −2, or a combination thereof, and 0<a≤2 and 0≤b≤1.