Polymer Electrolyte for Lithium Battery Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium batteries face challenges with polymer electrolytes having poor ionic conductivity, thermal properties, and mechanical properties, particularly with polyethylene oxide (PEO) based systems, which are prone to explosions and leakage at high temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A novel polymer with a specific structure, represented by Formula 1, is developed, incorporating cyclic groups and a repeat unit with a heteroatom to enhance mechanical properties and ionic conductivity, and is used in conjunction with a lithium salt to form an electrolyte that improves thermal and mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If polyethylene oxide (PEO) based polymer electrolyte is used, then the electrolyte can be in gel or solid form reducing explosion and leakage risks, but the ionic conductivity, thermal properties, and mechanical properties are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite polymer structure combining PEO chains with cyclic carbonate groups and heteroatom-containing repeat units. This composite approach allows the electrolyte to maintain the safety advantages of solid/gel form while improving ionic conductivity through the synergistic effects of different structural components. The cyclic carbonate groups provide polar environments for ion solvation, while the heteroatom-containing units enhance chain flexibility and ion transport pathways.
2Reliability
If polyethylene oxide (PEO) based polymer electrolyte is used, then the electrolyte can be in gel or solid form reducing explosion and leakage risks, but the thermal properties are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the thermal properties by changing the chemical structure parameters of the polymer electrolyte. The introduction of cyclic carbonate groups and heteroatom-containing repeat units alters the glass transition temperature, melting temperature, and thermal decomposition characteristics. These structural parameter changes enable the electrolyte to maintain stability at higher temperatures while preserving its solid/gel form for safety.
3Reliability
If polyethylene oxide (PEO) based polymer electrolyte is used, then the electrolyte can be in gel or solid form reducing explosion and leakage risks, but the mechanical properties are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite polymer structure where PEO chains are combined with cyclic carbonate groups and heteroatom-containing rigid units. This composite architecture provides mechanical reinforcement while maintaining the flexibility needed for ion transport. The cyclic and heteroatom-containing units act as structural crosslinks that enhance tensile strength and dimensional stability without compromising the solid/gel form factor.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a polymer represented by Formula 1, an electrolyte including the same, and a lithium battery including the polymer.