Lithium-Argyrodite Electrode Material for Dry Battery Cells
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current lithium batteries face challenges in long-term stability, energy density, and safety due to limitations in ion conduction and contact resistances, particularly in dry battery cells, which affect their performance and service life.
Innovation Solution
The use of lithiable electrode materials combined with solid lithium ion conductors, such as lithium argyrodites and lithium ion conducting glasses, which enhance ion conductivity and reduce contact resistances, along with an organic binder to improve cohesion and stability, allowing for the creation of dry battery cells without liquid electrolytes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solid-state lithium ion conductors are used in dry battery cells, then ion conduction is improved, but contact resistances increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining solid-state lithium ion conductors with specific binders and conductive additives to create a composite electrode material. This composite structure maintains high ion conduction while reducing contact resistances through the synergistic effects of different materials. The solid electrolyte particles are distributed within a matrix containing binder and conductive components, creating multiple pathways for both ion and electron transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by controlling the particle size, morphology, and composition of the solid-state lithium ion conductor particles. By optimizing these parameters, the material achieves both high ion conductivity and reduced contact resistance. The specific surface area, particle distribution, and crystalline structure are adjusted to balance ion transport efficiency with electrical contact properties.
2Reliability
If porous composite electrodes with liquid electrolyte are used, then ion transport is achieved, but energy density is reduced due to large pore volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from liquid electrolyte (hydraulic) to solid-state electrolyte (pneumatic/solid), eliminating the need for large porous structures. The solid electrolyte can be used in compact, non-porous electrode configurations, significantly increasing the volume fraction of active material and thereby improving energy density while maintaining effective ion transport pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reinterprets the porous structure concept by using solid electrolyte particles with controlled porosity. Rather than large continuous pores filled with liquid, the structure employs fine interconnected pores within the solid electrolyte matrix, providing sufficient ion transport channels while minimizing the volume occupied by non-active materials.
3Device complexity
If solid electrolyte layers are arranged between electrode layers, then battery structure is simplified, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solid electrolyte layer with the electrode structure by incorporating solid electrolyte particles directly into the electrode material matrix. This integration eliminates the need for separate electrolyte layer assembly steps, as the electrolyte is already positioned within the electrode during material fabrication. The combined structure simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the functional benefits of solid-state electrolytes.
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 improves ion conduction, increases energy density, extends the service life, enhances safety, and allows for operation at higher temperatures, leading to better performance and stability compared to existing dry and liquid electrolyte batteries.
Implementation Method 1
lithium argyrodite and lithium ion conductive glasses advantageously have high lithium ion conductivity and low contact resistances, which has an advantageous effect on ion conduction
Implementation Method 2
a material which can be lithiated can in particular be understood to mean a material which can reversibly absorb lithium ions and release them again. For example, a lithiable material can be intercalated with lithium ions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an electrode material (11,12) for a lithium-cell (10), in particular a dry battery cell, which comprises at least one electrode-active material (11a, 12a) which can be lithiated. In order to improve the performance of a cell (10) provided with said material, said material (11,12) also comprises at least one organic binder (11b,12b) and at least one solid body lithium ion conductor (11c,12c) selected from the group consisting of lithium-argyrodites and lithium ion-conducting glass. The invention also relates to a lithium cell and lithium battery and to the use thereof.