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Phase-Inversion Polymer Composite Separators Based on Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets for High-Temperature
Ana C M de Moraes1, Woo Jin Hyun1, Norman S Luu1
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering , Northwestern University , Evanston , Illinois 60208 , United States.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|January 25, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed advanced composite battery separators using carbon-coated hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanosheets and polymers. These separators enhance thermal stability and safety in lithium-ion batteries, preventing thermal runaway.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Separators are crucial for rechargeable battery safety, preventing short circuits while enabling ion flow.
- Traditional polymer separators exhibit poor thermal stability, leading to dangerous thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel composite separators with enhanced thermal stability and electrochemical performance.
- To improve the safety and operational range of lithium-ion batteries.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of carbon-coated hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanosheets via scalable liquid-phase shear exfoliation and thermal pyrolysis.
- Incorporation of carbon-coated hBN nanosheets into a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) polymer matrix using a phase-inversion process.
- Characterization of separator properties including porosity, electrolyte wettability, ionic conductivity, and thermal stability.
Main Results:
- The developed composite separators exhibit high porosity, excellent electrolyte wettability, and superior thermal stability up to 120 °C.
- Carbon-coated hBN nanosheets promote favorable interfacial interactions, leading to flexible, free-standing composite separators.
- Enhanced ionic conductivity and electrochemical performance exceeding conventional polyolefin separators were observed.
Conclusions:
- The novel carbon-coated hBN/PVDF composite separators offer a promising solution for safe and high-performance lithium-ion battery operation.
- These advanced separators address the critical limitations of traditional materials, paving the way for safer battery technologies.
