A new solid three-layer polymer battery developed in South Korea offers self-extinguishing capabilities and improved performance, paving the way for safer and longer-lasting energy storage solutions.

 A Breakthrough in Battery Safety and Longevity
A team of scientists from the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) in South Korea has achieved a significant milestone in battery technology. The researchers have developed a revolutionary lithium-ion battery with a solid three-layer polymeric electrolyte that has the unique ability to self-extinguish if it catches fire. Not only does this innovation enhance safety, but it also improves battery performance and longevity, marking a major step forward in energy storage solutions.

The Danger of Traditional Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have become the cornerstone of modern electronics, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, these batteries come with inherent risks, mainly due to their use of liquid electrolytes containing organic materials. These materials are highly flammable, posing a fire hazard if the battery is damaged or overcharged. Additionally, the separators used within these batteries to isolate the electrodes are vulnerable to damage, which can lead to electrical shorts and, in some cases, catastrophic explosions.

The new innovation from DGIST addresses these critical safety concerns by replacing liquid electrolytes with a solid three-layer polymeric electrolyte. This design not only reduces the fire risk but also enhances the overall safety of the battery, potentially saving lives and preventing costly damage to devices and vehicles powered by Li-ion technology.

How the New Battery Works: Self-Extinguishing and Blast-Resistant
The self-extinguishing feature of the new battery is made possible by one of its key components: ethane decabromodiphenyl (DBDPE). This chemical compound, which is incorporated into one of the layers of the battery, prevents fires and can extinguish them if they occur. This breakthrough means that, unlike traditional Li-ion batteries, which can rapidly escalate into dangerous fires, the new battery can effectively mitigate the risk by quelling flames before they spread.

In addition to its fire-resistant properties, the new battery features a high concentration of lithium bis(mid) salt (LiTFSI), which facilitates faster movement of lithium ions. This not only improves the battery’s energy transfer rate but also prevents the formation of dendrites—tiny, branching structures that can lead to short circuits and even battery failure. Together, these enhancements contribute to a battery that is safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting.

Outstanding Performance: Longer Battery Life and Increased Durability
The new battery developed by DGIST also outperforms traditional Li-ion batteries in terms of longevity. In laboratory tests, the battery retained an impressive 87.9 percent of its original performance after 1,000 cycles of charging and discharging. In contrast, a typical Li-ion battery with a liquid electrolyte only retains around 70-80 percent of its capacity after the same number of cycles. This means that the new three-layer polymer battery is not only safer but also more durable, making it an attractive option for a wide range of applications.

Potential Applications: From Smartphones to Electric Vehicles
The implications of this breakthrough are vast. Like traditional Li-ion batteries, the new solid-state polymer battery can be used in a variety of sectors, including consumer electronics, automotive industries, and large-scale energy storage systems. Given its superior safety features and enhanced longevity, the new battery could become a game-changer in powering electric vehicles, smartphones, and other devices that rely on high-performance energy storage.

This research is expected to contribute significantly to the commercialization of lithium metal batteries that use solid polymeric electrolytes, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to current battery technology. As energy storage demands continue to grow, this innovation has the potential to lead the way in sustainable and reliable power sources.

The Future of Energy Storage Is Safer and More Efficient
The development of the self-extinguishing, solid three-layer polymer battery marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of lithium-ion battery technology. With its fire-resistant capabilities, faster ion movement, and longer lifespan, this battery offers a much-needed improvement over current energy storage solutions. As research in this area continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovations that not only enhance the performance of batteries but also make them safer for everyday use. This breakthrough by DGIST holds promise for a future where energy storage is both reliable and secure, reducing the risks associated with current battery technologies and opening up new possibilities across industries.