LDH Functional Layer Composition for Alkaline Battery Separators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing layered double hydroxide (LDH) materials used as separators in alkaline secondary batteries lack sufficient ion conductivity and alkaline resistance, limiting their practical application.

Innovation Solution

A functional layer comprising a layered double hydroxide with a specific composition of Ni, Al, Ti, and Zn, with an atomic ratio Zn/(Ni+Ti+Al+Zn) of 0.04 or more, is integrated into a composite material with a porous substrate, enhancing ion conductivity and alkaline resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If LDH with high Zn content is used to improve ion conductivity, then ion conductivity increases, but the structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveion conductivityVSAvoidstructural stability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The invention precisely controls the Zn atomic ratio within 0.04-0.50 range and balances it with Ni (0.10-0.50), Co (0.01-0.30), and Cu (0.01-0.30) to achieve optimal ion conductivity while maintaining structural stability through balanced composition

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates local stability within the layered structure by distributing different metal elements (Zn for conductivity, Ni/Co/Cu for stability, Al for framework) in specific proportions, allowing each element to contribute its optimal property to the overall structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 LDH functional layer exhibits high ion conductivity and alkaline resistance, suitable for use as a separator in alkaline secondary batteries, effectively preventing zinc deposition and gas penetration, while maintaining low resistance and density.

Implementation Method 1

The LDH has also been attractive as a material that conducts hydroxide ions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIon conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

A layered double hydroxide (hereafter also referred to LDH) is a material having an exchangeable anions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIon exchange: Ion Exchange

Data Source

PatentEP3477736B1Functional layer including layered double hydroxide, and composite material

Publication Date: 2023.09.20 NGK INSULATORS LTD

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Figure 4B

AI summary

Provided are a functional layer with significantly high ion conductivity and a composite material including the functional layer. The functional layer of the present invention includes layered double hydroxide that contains Ni, Al, Ti and Zn, and an atomic ratio Zn/(Ni+Ti+AI+Zn) determined by an energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS) is 0.04 or more.