Single-Ion Conductive Network for Self-Healing Dendrite Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current single-ion conducting materials face challenges in maintaining ionic conductivity and mechanical stability, particularly in battery applications where volume changes and metal dendrite formation can lead to network degradation.
Innovation Solution
A method of forming a single-ion conductive network by reacting a first compound with a second compound containing at least two hydroxyl groups and a third compound with a single hydroxyl group, controlling the degree of interlinking to create a dynamic network that can self-heal and suppress metal dendrite formation, using compounds like lithium aluminium hydride and diols, and optionally incorporating additional materials for enhanced properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-ion conducting network is used to maintain ionic conductivity, then ionic transport is improved, but mechanical stability deteriorates due to volume changes and dendrite formation
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into discrete anionic coordination units connected by organic linkers, creating a modular structure that can accommodate volume changes while maintaining ionic conductivity pathways. The segmentation allows the network to flex locally without compromising overall mechanical integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite network combining inorganic anionic coordination units (e.g., AlO4-, BO3-) with organic linker molecules. This composite structure integrates the ionic conductivity of inorganic units with the mechanical flexibility and tunability of organic components, resolving the contradiction between ionic conductivity and mechanical stability.
2Strength
If the network is made more rigid to improve mechanical stability, then strength is improved, but ionic conductivity deteriorates due to reduced network dynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The network incorporates dynamic bonds between anionic coordination units and organic linkers that can reversibly break and reform. This dynamic character allows the network to adapt its structure in response to mechanical stress while maintaining continuous ionic conductivity pathways, preventing dendrite formation through self-healing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention allows tuning of network parameters such as linker length, coordination geometry, and crosslinking density to optimize the balance between mechanical stability and ionic conductivity. By adjusting these parameters, the network can be tailored for specific applications requiring different ratios of strength to conductivity.
3Reliability
If counterions are dispersed in the network to improve ionic conductivity, then ion transport is improved, but network stability deteriorates due to disruption of the coordination network
Solution Approach 1:
Counterions are localized within specific regions or voids of the network rather than being uniformly distributed. This local concentration allows high ionic conductivity in specific pathways while maintaining the overall integrity and stability of the coordination network structure in other regions.
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
The resulting single-ion conductive network exhibits improved ionic conductivity and mechanical strength, with the ability to self-heal and prevent metal dendrite formation, enhancing the stability and performance of batteries.
Implementation Method 1
reaction of a first compound of formula (I) with a second compound and a third compound
Data Source
AI summary
A method of forming a single-ion conductive network comprising reaction of a first compound of formula (I) with a second compound and a third compound: formula (I). X is selected from the group consisting of B and Al. M+ is a cation, e.g. a lithium ion. The second compound comprises at least two hydroxyl groups, e.g. a diol. The third compound comprises only one hydroxyl group. The single-ion conductive network may be used in a metal battery or metal ion battery.