Lithium Air Battery Buffer Layer for Overvoltage Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium air batteries face performance deterioration and reduced lifespan due to excessive contact between the catalyst layer and electrolyte, leading to overvoltage and electrolyte evaporation during charging and discharging.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a buffer layer made of mesoporous carbon impregnated with a conductive ion-exchange resin solution between the catalyst layer and membrane, along with a Nafion-coated membrane and a polyolefin-based microporous film to prevent excessive electrolyte contact and solvent evaporation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the catalyst layer is directly contacted with the electrolyte to enable ion transport, then the battery can function, but overvoltage occurs and performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A buffer layer is introduced between the catalyst layer and the electrolyte as an intermediary component. This buffer layer allows ion transport while preventing direct contact between the electrolyte and catalyst layer, thereby eliminating overvoltage generation and performance deterioration while maintaining battery functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cathode structure is segmented into multiple distinct layers: the catalyst layer, the buffer layer, and the membrane. This segmentation separates the functions of catalysis, ion transport, and electrolyte management, allowing each layer to optimize its specific function without interfering with others, thus preventing overvoltage.
2Productivity
If the electrolyte is allowed to contact the catalyst layer for ion conduction, then the battery operates, but the electrolyte solvent evaporates and lifespan reduces
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer layer serves as a mediator that enables ion conduction from the electrolyte to the catalyst layer while preventing the electrolyte solvent from reaching and evaporating. This intermediary structure maintains operational functionality while eliminating substance loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer layer acts as a thin film structure that physically confines the electrolyte, preventing its evaporation while allowing necessary ion transport. This thin film barrier maintains the electrolyte within the battery structure during operation.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a buffer layer is introduced to prevent electrolyte contact, then overvoltage is reduced and lifespan extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cathode is divided into functional segments (catalyst layer, buffer layer, membrane) where each layer has a specific thickness and composition optimized for its function. This segmentation achieves performance improvement through functional specialization rather than through complex structural arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer layer is constructed using composite materials that combine the properties needed for ion transport, electrolyte barrier function, and structural stability. This composite approach achieves multiple functions in a single layer, reducing overall structural complexity.
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 configuration reduces overvoltage occurrence, enhances durability, and extends the battery's lifespan by maintaining stable performance over multiple charge-discharge cycles.
Implementation Method 1
a buffer layer provided between the membrane and the catalyst layer, and spaced apart from the first electrode part
Implementation Method 2
The buffer layer may contain a mesoporous carbon impregnated with a conductive ion-exchange resin solution
Implementation Method 3
a membrane coupled to the catalyst layer so that lithium ions pass therethrough
Implementation Method 4
a polyolefin-based microporous film coupled on one side of the gas diffusion layer
Implementation Method 5
a gas diffusion layer of which one side contacts an air, a catalyst layer formed on the other side of the gas diffusion layer
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a lithium air battery, and more particular, a lithium air battery including a buffer layer consisting of a conductive ion-exchange resin and a mesoporous carbon formed between an electrolyte and a catalyst layer configuring a cathode to prevent a contact between the catalyst layer and a large amount of electrolyte in the lithium air battery, thereby reducing occurrence of overvoltage at the time of charging and discharging the battery. At the same time, the lithium air battery of the present invention may suppress evaporation of the electrolyte solution to improve durability, thereby preventing deterioration in performance of the battery, and extending a lifespan.