Extending the Lifespan of Dual-Ion Batteries with a New Polymer Binder

author: FutureCar Staff    

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When it comes to electric vehicles that rely on stored electric energy, the key factor lies in rechargeable batteries that can withstand multiple charge cycles. While lithium-ion batteries have been widely used for this purpose, their limitations in energy storage capacity and other challenges have shifted the focus to an intriguing alternative called dual-ion batteries (DIBs).

Dual-ion batteries utilize both lithium cations and counter anions simultaneously, providing a high energy density similar to traditional batteries. This enables them to store a significant amount of energy. However, they face a hurdle due to the larger anions, which cause expansion and contraction of the graphite anode material during charge and discharge, leading to reduced battery durability.

In a recent breakthrough, a collaborative research team addressed the durability issues of dual-ion batteries through innovative polymer binder research.

The findings of this study have been published in Advanced Materials.

The binder plays a critical role in securing various chemicals within rechargeable batteries. In this study, the research team introduced a novel polymer binder that incorporates azide groups (N3-) and acrylate groups (C3H3O2).

Azide groups form a strong covalent bond with graphite through a chemical reaction facilitated by ultraviolet light, ensuring the structural integrity of graphite during its expansion and contraction. Meanwhile, acrylate groups facilitate the reconnection between the graphite and the binder, even if the bond is disrupted.

The experimental results showed that dual-ion batteries equipped with the newly developed binder maintained exceptional performance, even after enduring over 3,500 recharge cycles. These batteries also demonstrated fast charging capabilities, with approximately 88% of the original capacity being restored within just 2 minutes.

Professor Soojin Park, the driving force behind the research, explained, "Dual-ion batteries are not only cost-effective but also make use of Earth's abundant graphite resources. This research will encourage further exploration of dual-ion batteries, extending their applications beyond electric vehicles."

For more information, refer to the article "Azacyclic Anchor-Enabled Cohesive Graphite Electrodes for Sustainable Anion Storage" published in Advanced Materials (2023).

DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306157

FutureCar Staff