Solid-State Microfabricated Energy Storage with Solid Electrolytes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional batteries exhibit limitations in energy density, power density, cycle life, stability, and scalability, with issues such as capacity loss, degradation, and safety concerns, particularly in extreme temperatures and rapid charging, which restrict their application in portable devices and electric traction.
Innovation Solution
The development of solid-state energy storage devices with a pair of metal-containing electrodes and a solid electrolyte, capable of reversible electrochemical redox reactions, which are fabricated using thin films and controllable deposition methods to enhance ionic conductivity and stability, allowing for high energy density and rapid charging/discharging without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional batteries use liquid or gel electrolytes to achieve high ionic conductivity, then energy density is improved, but device stability and manufacturing precision deteriorate due to leakage, evaporation, and incompatibility with precision manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the electrolyte from liquid/gel to solid, fundamentally altering the parameter of electrolyte phase. This enables compatibility with solid-state fabrication processes while maintaining ionic conductivity through careful selection of solid electrolyte materials and optimization of their properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite electrode structures combining metal nanoparticles with conductive matrices, and composite solid electrolyte systems, to achieve both high ionic conductivity and structural stability. The composite approach allows integration of multiple functional properties within a single solid-state device
2Power
If conventional batteries are charged rapidly to improve power density, then charging speed is improved, but device reliability deteriorates due to damage, degradation, and safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The solid-state electrolyte fundamentally changes the electrochemical parameters of the system, enabling much higher charging rates. The solid electrolyte's properties allow rapid ion transport without the degradation mechanisms that limit liquid electrolyte systems, permitting instantaneous or near-instantaneous charging without damage
Solution Approach 2:
The solid electrolyte acts as a protective barrier that prevents the harmful effects of rapid charging before they can occur. It cushions against overheating, dendrite formation, and other degradation mechanisms by its inherent structural stability and controlled ion transport properties
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional batteries operate in extreme temperatures to improve adaptability, then temperature range is improved, but device stability deteriorates due to capacity loss and component degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite solid electrolyte and electrode materials specifically selected for their thermal stability. These composite structures maintain their chemical and physical properties across extreme temperature ranges, enabling operation from cryogenic to high-temperature environments without capacity loss or degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The solid-state nature of the electrolyte fundamentally changes the temperature dependence of device performance. Unlike liquid electrolytes that freeze or evaporate, the solid electrolyte maintains structural integrity and ionic conductivity across a broad temperature spectrum, expanding operational adaptability
4Quantity of substance
If conventional batteries use thick electrodes to increase energy capacity, then storage capacity is improved, but power density deteriorates due to slow ion transport and limited charging rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates local high-conductivity pathways within the electrode structure through metal nanoparticle networks and optimized solid electrolyte interfaces. This local quality enhancement allows rapid ion transport even in thicker electrodes, decoupling capacity from power density limitations
Solution Approach 2:
Composite electrode structures combining metal nanoparticles with conductive matrices create interconnected pathways for rapid ion and electron transport throughout the electrode thickness, enabling both high capacity and high power density in thick-electrode configurations
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 devices achieve high energy density, improved cycle life, and enhanced stability, enabling efficient energy storage and release across a wide temperature range, suitable for integration in portable devices and electric systems.
Implementation Method 1
a solid electrolyte positioned in direct contact with the first electrode, and a second electrode positioned in direct contact with the solid electrolyte
Implementation Method 2
capable of reversible electrochemical redox reactions
Data Source
AI summary
Integrated devices comprising integrated circuits and energy storage devices are described. Disclosed energy storage devices correspond to an all-solid-state construction, and do not include any gels, liquids, or other materials that are incompatible with microfabrication techniques. Disclosed energy storage device comprises energy storage cells with electrodes comprising metal-containing compositions, like metal oxides, metal nitrides, or metal hydrides, and a solid state electrolyte.