With the start of electromobility, fears about flammable batteries in e-cars are constantly emerging. A team of researchers in South Korea has now presented a new fireproof battery.
Researchers at South Korea's Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) have presented a new lithium-ion battery that is not only resistant to explosions, but can also extinguish itself in the event of a fire. In addition, the new development is said to have an even longer shelf life than previous batteries.
New fireproof, more durable battery
High-performance batteries are one of the central elements of electromobility and also of the energy transition as a whole. Lithium-ion batteries in particular are used for this purpose in all kinds of devices, from electric cars to smartphones. Despite their prevalence and popularity, lithium-ion batteries have a not inconsiderable fire hazard, which is particularly dangerous with larger batteries.
The new development consists of the introduction of a three-layer system as an electrolyte, which connects the individual electrodes with each other. A robust middle layer of zeolites provides stability in the structure, while the softer, outer layers connect the electrodes and improve performance and efficiency. Decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE) provides fire resistance, while high amounts of lithium salts (LiTFSI) allow the lithium ions to move. The formation of dendrites, tree-like growths that reduce performance and pose a risk of fire or explosion, due to repeated loading processes is also prevented by the new structure.
Almost 88% charging power after 1,000 charging cycles
In laboratory tests, the researchers have also been able to determine that batteries with the new three-layer structure are more durable than previous lithium-ion batteries. After 1,000 charging cycles, the new development was able to maintain 87.9% of its performance, while the currently widespread batteries with liquid electrolytes could only maintain 70 to 80% of their performance.
The ability to extinguish oneself in the event of a fire is also an advantage of the new development, which could also represent a breakthrough, especially in electric car batteries. The study can be read in detail in the scientific journal Small: Study on the new lithium-ion battery
However, it will be some time before the new technology is found in new e-cars.