Cross-Linked Solid-State Electrode Assembly for Higher Ionic Conductivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid electrolytes, particularly those using polyethylene oxide (PEO) as a matrix, face challenges in achieving high ionic conductivity due to the high crystallinity of PEO, which restricts the mobility of lithium ions and limits the dispersibility and optimization of ceramic particles within the polymer matrix.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electrolyte assembly that includes a polymer network formed by a polyethylene oxide-based copolymer with cross-linkable functional groups, a ceramic compound, and a polar compound in a gaseous state. This configuration enhances the mobility of polymer chains and uniformly disperses ceramic particles, thereby improving ionic conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a highly crystalline polymer such as polyethylene oxide (PEO) is used as a matrix, then the structural stability is improved, but the chain mobility is inhibited and ionic conductivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the polymer matrix by introducing cross-linkable functional groups and controlling the degree of cross-linking. This transforms the highly crystalline PEO into a cross-linked network structure with controlled amorphous regions, thereby maintaining structural stability while improving chain mobility and ionic conductivity to exceed 1 mS/cm at room temperature
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite solid electrolyte by combining cross-linked PEO-based polymer with inorganic ceramic particles. The ceramic particles fill the amorphous regions of the polymer network, providing structural stability while the polymer matrix ensures ion transport pathways, achieving both structural integrity and high ionic conductivity
2Object-affected harmful factors
If oxide-based ceramic particles are dispersed in a polymer matrix, then ignition stability is improved, but dispersibility and optimization of physical properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating specific interaction sites between ceramic particles and the polymer matrix through cross-linkable functional groups. The functional groups locally modify the polymer chains near ceramic particles, enhancing interfacial adhesion and uniform dispersibility while maintaining the ignition stability provided by the ceramic particles
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-linkable functional groups act as intermediaries between the polymer matrix and ceramic particles. These functional groups form bridging connections that improve the interface between organic polymer and inorganic ceramic, ensuring uniform dispersion and optimal physical properties while maintaining combustion stability
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional solid electrolyte structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ionic conductivity exceeds 1 mS/cm at room temperature cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-introducing cross-linkable functional groups into the PEO polymer chains before ceramic particle addition and cross-linking. This preliminary functionalization enables subsequent easy cross-linking and ceramic incorporation, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving the required ionic conductivity exceeding 1 mS/cm at room temperature
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 proposed electrolyte assembly achieves improved ionic conductivity, exceeding 0.95 mS/cm at room temperature, along with enhanced mechanical properties and stability across varying temperatures, making it suitable for advanced battery applications.
Implementation Method 1
a polar compound, wherein the polar compound is contained in the three-dimensional network
Implementation Method 2
a polymer in the form of a network including a polyethylene oxide-based copolymer with cross-linkable functional groups, at least some of which form cross-links
Data Source
AI summary
An electrode assembly includes a positive electrode; a negative electrode; and an electrolyte layer between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, wherein the electrolyte layer comprises: a polymer in the form of a network including a polyethylene oxide-based copolymer with cross-linkable functional groups, at least some of which form cross-links; a ceramic compound; and a polar compound, wherein the polar compound is contained in the network, and wherein the positive electrode comprises a positive electrode active material and a binder comprising the polymer including the polyethylene oxide-based copolymer having the cross-linkable functional groups.