Faster Charging, Longer-Lasting Lithium Batteries. Posted by batterymanufactory.com
The researchers developed a three-dimensional, cross-linked polymer sponge that attaches to the metal plating of a battery anode. "This project aims to develop the next generation of metal batteries," said Donghai Wang, professor of mechanical engineering and the principal investigator of the project. "Lithium metal has been tried in batteries for decades, but there are some fundamental issues that inhibit their advancement." Under additional strain, like in the fast-charging methods desired in electrical vehicles, lithium ion (Li) batteries are vulnerable to dendritic growth -- needle-like formations that can reduce cycle life and potentially cause safety issues -- including fires or explosions. "Our approach was to use a polymer on the interface of Li metal," Wang explained. The material acts as a porous sponge that not only promotes ion transfer, but also inhibits deterioration. "This allowed the metal plating to be fre...