Safer electric vehicles with new battery technology

author: FutureCar Staff    

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new battery technology for next-generation electric vehicles (EVs) that addresses the risk of battery fires and increases energy storage. The technology, presented in the journal Nature on October 25, 2023, focuses on suppressing the growth of lithium dendrites in lithium-ion batteries. These dendrites are branch-like structures that can cause short circuits and long-term failures in batteries.

The researchers believe that their new battery design, which includes a fluorine-rich interlayer to stabilize the cathode side and modifications to the anode's interlayer with magnesium and bismuth, can prevent dendrite formation. This breakthrough could pave the way for the production of safer all-solid-state batteries for EVs.

While lithium-ion batteries are popular for their high energy storage, they contain a flammable liquid electrolyte component that poses safety risks. The US National Transportation Safety Board has reported that first responders are vulnerable to electric shock and exposure to toxic gases from damaged or burning batteries.

To mitigate these risks, the researchers focused on stabilizing the interfaces between the solid electrolyte and the anode, as well as the electrolyte and the cathode. By doing so, they aim to create all-solid-state batteries that are safer than current electric or internal combustion models.

Professor Chunsheng Wang and postdoctoral associate Hongli Wan developed a theory for the formation of lithium dendrites in 2021, which served as the basis for their battery design. Professor Wang stated that solid-state batteries have the potential to achieve high energy and safety, but overcoming the drawbacks required significant effort.

Commercializing all-solid-state batteries will require scaling down the solid electrolyte layer to achieve a similar thickness to lithium-ion batteries' electrolyte. This will improve energy density and battery storage. Additionally, the high costs of basic materials present another challenge that needs to be addressed.

Battery manufacturer Solid Power plans to conduct trials of the new technology to assess its potential for commercialization. If successful, the company aims to release the new batteries to the market by 2026.

FutureCar Staff