Free-Standing Sulfide Electrolyte Membrane Without Ion-Blocking Scaffold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sulfide solid electrolyte membranes for all-solid-state batteries require a scaffold or mechanical support layer, which impairs ion flux and decreases ionic conductivity, thereby deteriorating battery performance.
Innovation Solution
A free-standing sulfide solid electrolyte membrane without a scaffold layer is developed, utilizing an argyrodite-type crystal structure and a non-fibrillizable binder to maintain mechanical integrity and enhance lithium-ion conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a scaffold layer is used to provide mechanical support, then the membrane can be prepared and maintained structurally, but the ion flux is impacted and ionic conductivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the scaffold layer from the solid electrolyte membrane structure. The free-standing membrane is prepared without any mechanical support layer, extracting the harmful element that blocked ion transport while maintaining structural integrity through optimized membrane composition and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the sulfide electrolyte to enable free-standing configuration. By controlling thickness (5-500 μm), composition ratios, and processing conditions, the membrane achieves sufficient mechanical strength without requiring a scaffold layer, thereby restoring full ionic conductivity
2Stability of the object's composition
If a scaffold layer is used to provide mechanical support, then the membrane structure is stabilized, but the overall battery performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold layer is completely removed from the membrane structure. The patent demonstrates that the sulfide electrolyte can form a free-standing, stable membrane without any polymeric support, eliminating the performance-deteriorating element while maintaining structural stability through intrinsic membrane properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite sulfide electrolyte compositions with optimized ratios of sulfide components to achieve both structural stability and high performance. The composite material structure provides inherent mechanical strength and ion conductivity without requiring external scaffold support
3Ease of manufacture
If a solvent-free method is used to prepare the electrolyte, then the process is simplified, but the thickness uniformity and control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes processing parameters including thickness control (5-500 μm), heating temperature ranges, and processing time to achieve uniform free-standing membranes using solvent-free methods. By carefully controlling these parameters, the patent maintains manufacturing precision while simplifying the preparation process
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 free-standing sulfide electrolyte membrane exhibits improved lithium-ion conductivity and cycling performance, including stability and capacity retention, compared to membranes with a scaffold layer.
Implementation Method 1
The SE layer functions as both electrolyte and separator, which allows transportation or flow of ions
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a solid electrolyte membrane free of scaffold layer. In one embodiment, the membrane has a lithium-ion conductivity of at least 40% higher than the one prepared with a scaffold layer. Electrochemical devices such as all solid-state battery comprising the solid electrolyte membrane exhibit an improved cycling performance. Methods for preparing the solid electrolyte are also disclosed.