A research group led by Professor Atsuo Yamada of the University of Tokyo has developed a high-performance organic electrolyte with a fire extinguishing function through joint research with Kyoto University and the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS).By giving a fire extinguishing function to the organic electrolyte, which has been the main cause of ignition and explosion accidents, it is expected to accelerate the development of new batteries that are significantly safer and have higher energy density.
Currently, various secondary batteries including derivative types and next-generation types of lithium-ion batteries are being actively researched with the aim of increasing the energy density of secondary batteries (batteries that can be recharged and used repeatedly).On the other hand, many ignition / explosion accidents of lithium-ion batteries caused by flammable organic electrolytes have been reported, which is a major obstacle to the expansion of the secondary battery market and applications.
The electrolytic solution developed by the research group this time is composed only of a flame-retardant organic solvent and an electrolyte salt, and has no flash point.In addition, not only can it be digested by spraying it on the fire source, but also the vapor generated and diffused when the temperature rises above 200 ° C can be used as a fire extinguishing agent, so the risk of battery ignition is actively reduced over a wide range. ..On the other hand, despite the fact that no flammable organic solvent, which has been conventionally required as an electrolyte component, is used, the lithium-ion battery and the sodium-ion battery are repeatedly charged and discharged over a long period of time (1000 times or more, time). It has been achieved for more than one year in a row).
Through this research, it will be possible to achieve both high energy density and large size of secondary batteries, which has been regarded as an unsolvable dilemma, and ensuring high safety.In addition, the possibility of significantly extending the life has been shown, and it is expected that the development of new secondary batteries that can withstand practical use will be accelerated for electric vehicles and smart grid applications.
Paper information:[Nature Energy] Fire-extinguishing organic electrolytes for safe batteries
