Rare-Earth Solid-State Electrolytes With High Conductivity and Compressibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-state electrolytes for batteries face challenges in achieving high ionic conductivity, compressibility, and cost-effectiveness, which are essential for efficient energy storage and safety.
Innovation Solution
The development of novel inorganic solid-state electrolytes composed of hydrated nitrates of rare-earth metals and hydrated salts of transition metals, which exhibit high ionic conductivity, compressibility, and a cost-effective production process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional solid-state electrolytes are used, then ionic conductivity can be achieved, but compressibility and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite solid-state electrolytes combining organic and inorganic components, specifically using lithium salts (LiClO4, LiBF4, LiPF6) combined with polymer matrices (PMMA, PEO, PVDF) and inorganic fillers (TiO2, SiO2, Al2O3). This composite structure achieves synergistic effects where the organic phase provides flexibility and compressibility while the inorganic phase enhances ionic conductivity and structural stability, resolving the contradiction between conductivity and compressibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically varies compositional parameters (salt-to-polymer ratios, filler concentrations, molecular weights of polymers) and processing parameters (solvation methods, drying temperatures, pressing pressures) to optimize the balance between ionic conductivity and compressibility. By adjusting these parameters, the electrolyte can be tuned to achieve specific performance targets for different battery applications
2Reliability
If high-performance solid-state electrolytes are developed, then ionic conductivity improves, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes inexpensive, commercially available materials including common lithium salts, abundant polymers like PMMA and PEO, and plentiful inorganic oxides such as TiO2 and SiO2. These materials can be sourced at low cost and processed using simple, scalable techniques, making the electrolytes economically viable for mass production while maintaining high ionic conductivity through optimized composite formulations
Solution Approach 2:
By optimizing compositional ratios and processing conditions, the patent achieves high ionic conductivity at minimal material costs. The systematic variation of parameters allows identification of cost-effective formulations that meet performance requirements without needing expensive rare materials or complex multi-step synthesis procedures
3Productivity
If solid-state batteries are constructed with high energy density, then performance improves, but safety and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates inorganic filler particles (TiO2, SiO2, Al2O3) distributed within the polymer matrix to create localized regions of enhanced safety and stability. These filler particles act as physical barriers to dendrite growth, improve thermal stability at high temperatures, and provide structural reinforcement, allowing the battery to operate at high energy densities without compromising safety
Solution Approach 2:
The composite structure combines the high energy density capabilities of lithium-based electrolytes with the safety and stability of polymer and inorganic components. The polymer matrix provides flexibility and dendrite suppression, while inorganic fillers enhance thermal stability, creating a multi-functional electrolyte that simultaneously achieves high energy density and improved safety
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
These electrolytes demonstrate ionic conductivity exceeding 3.5 mS·cm−1, compressibility of over 90% under 300 MPa pressure, and a cost of $20 to $50 per kilogram, significantly improving the performance and economic viability of solid-state batteries.
Implementation Method 1
The solid electrolyte needs to exhibit an ionic conductivity of at least 1 mS·cm−1
Implementation Method 2
a compressibility of at least 90% density under 300 MPa of pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the preparation of novel inorganic and cost-effective solid-state electrolytes is disclosed that exhibit an ionic conductivity of 3.6 mS·cm−1, provide maximum solid-solid contact between the electrolyte and the electrodes in an electrochemical cell, require no special handling and storage, and are prepared at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The electrolytes provide a solution to the problems of traditional lithium-based batteries using liquid electrolytes, and meet the essential requirements for the manufacture of all-solid-state batteries.