Credit: Advanced Energy Materials (2024). DOI: 10.1002/aenm.202403904
Breakthroughs in Solid-State Battery Technology Aim for Safer Alternatives
Electric vehicles and portable electronic devices like wireless earbuds heavily depend on lithium-ion batteries due to their rapid charging capabilities and significant energy storage capacity. Nonetheless, these conventional batteries are contingent on liquid electrolytes, which pose safety hazards as they are flammable if breached or overheated.
A New Avenue of Research at the University of Missouri
Researchers at the University of Missouri are exploring an innovative approach to this dilemma under the guidance of Assistant Professor Matthias Young. The team is investigating solid electrolytes as a substitution for liquid or gel variants in solid-state batteries, offering enhanced safety and energy efficiency. Their findings titled “Investigating Cathode–Electrolyte Interface Development in Solid State Lithium-Ion Batteries via 4D-STEM” have been published in *Advanced Energy Materials*.
“When a solid electrolyte comes into contact with the cathode, it triggers a reaction that creates an interphase layer approximately 100 nanometers thick—equivalent to one-thousandth the width of human hair,” explained Young, who holds dual appointments within Mizzou’s College of Engineering and College of Arts and Science. ”This interface hinders lithium ions and electrons from moving efficiently, which raises resistance levels, ultimately degrading battery performance.”
The challenge associated with understanding these intricacies has puzzled scientists for over ten years.
Examining Root Issues Using Cutting-Edge Technology
Young’s research group approached this problem by delving into its underlying causes more thoroughly.
Through advanced four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D STEM), they analyzed the atomic configuration within these batteries without disassembling them—a significant advancement in battery research methodology. This innovative technique enabled them to comprehend better the chemical dynamics at play inside batteries, pinpointing that the interphase layer was indeed detrimental to performance.
An Innovative Solution Approach
The lab led by Young specializes in creating thin films using a vapor-phase deposition technique known as oxidative molecular layer deposition (oMLD). The next step involves testing whether these thin films can serve as protective barriers preventing adverse reactions between solid electrolytes and cathodes.
“Our coatings must be sufficiently thin to mitigate reactions while allowing unobstructed ion flow,” he stated. “We strive to retain both high performance characteristics inherent to both solid electrolytes and cathode materials without compromising their functionality due to compatibility issues.”
Catalyzing Progress Toward Viable Solutions
This meticulously engineered strategy at nanoscale dimensions aims for optimal interaction between materials—advancing us toward functional solid-state batteries becoming mainstream technology sooner rather than later.
The contributions from co-authors Nikhila C. Paranamana, Andreas Werbrouck, Amit K. Datta, and Xiaoqing He were pivotal for this study conducted at Mizzou.
Further Details on This Groundbreaking Study
Nikhila C. Paranamana et al., “Investigating Cathode–Electrolyte Interface Development in Solid State Li‐Ion Batteries via 4D‐STEM,” Advanced Energy Materials (2024). DOI: 10.1002/aenm.202403904
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University of Missouri