Phthalocyanine Solid-State Electrolyte Interface for Fast Li-Ion Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

The application of a lithium metal anode to a phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte results in high interfacial impedance due to the formation of a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) with electrochemical characteristics not compatible with fast Li-ion transport.

Innovation Solution

A chemical additive is introduced in micro-liter quantities to the surface of the phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte prior to the addition of the lithium metal anode, forming a SEI layer with electrochemical characteristics suitable for fast Li-ion transport and acting as a good electronic insulator.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a lithium metal anode is applied directly to a phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte, then the battery structure is simple, but the interfacial impedance is high due to formation of incompatible SEI layer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery structureVSAvoidinterfacial impedance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A chemical additive (intermediary substance) is introduced between the lithium metal anode and the phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte. This additive forms a modified SEI layer that acts as a mediator, enabling fast Li-ion transport across the interface while maintaining structural simplicity. The intermediary substance resolves the incompatibility between the anode and electrolyte without requiring complex processing equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The chemical composition and electrochemical characteristics of the SEI layer are changed by introducing specific additives. This parameter change transforms the SEI from a high-impedance, Li-ion-blocking layer into a low-impedance, Li-ion-conductive interface, thereby resolving the contradiction between simple structure and high reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte is used, then the battery can be constructed, but the SEI formed is not compatible with fast Li-ion transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery constructionVSAvoidLi-ion transport rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The chemical additive serves as an intermediary that modifies the SEI formation process. It enables fast Li-ion transport through the SEI layer without requiring changes to the phthalocyanine electrolyte formulation or complex manufacturing processes, thus maintaining ease of manufacture while improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

By changing the chemical parameters of the SEI layer through additive introduction, the Li-ion transport characteristics are improved. This allows the use of phthalocyanine electrolytes (easy to manufacture) while achieving fast Li-ion transport rates through modified interfacial properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If a chemical additive is introduced to the electrolyte surface, then fast Li-ion transport is achieved, but the process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveLi-ion transport rateVSAvoidchemical connection process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The chemical additive performs multiple functions automatically: it forms the modified SEI layer, enables fast Li-ion transport, and provides electronic insulation. This self-service capability reduces the need for additional complex processing steps or components, minimizing process complexity while achieving high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The chemical additive serves multiple purposes simultaneously: modifying SEI composition, enabling fast ion transport, and providing electronic insulation. This multi-functionality consolidates several requirements into a single substance, reducing overall process complexity despite the addition of the chemical component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 approach achieves a good electronic contact between the anode and the phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte, reducing interfacial impedance and enhancing the performance of the solid-state battery.

Implementation Method 1

a SEI layer that has electrochemical characteristics suitable for fast Li-ion transport as well as being a good electronic insulator is obtained

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolid electrolyte interphase formation:

Data Source

PatentUS20250125414A1Electronic Connection in an All-Solid State Battery at the Anode/Electrolyte Interface
Publication Date: 2025.04.17 THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES AS REPRESENTED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE

AI summary

The present invention relates to a solid-state battery that is based on a phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte/anode connection that is chemically obtained. Such chemical connection process yields a solid electrolyte interphase that connects the solid-state battery's phthalocyanine solid-state electrolyte and anode. Unlike other processes for forming solid-state electrolyte/anode connections, the present chemical process does not require that solid-state electrolyte be ductile and flow under high pressure.