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Polyphenylene Sulfide-Based Solid-State Separator for Limited Li Metal Battery.
Haitao Zhou1, Chongchen Yu1, Hongquan Gao1
1School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu University, Jiangsu Province, 212013, P. R. China.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|November 2, 2021
Summary
Researchers developed a novel solid-state separator from lithiated polyphenylene sulfide (PPS-SSS) for advanced lithium metal batteries. This material enables high energy density and long cycle life, paving the way for practical, safer batteries.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- The demand for high energy density batteries drives research towards lithium metal and solid-state electrolytes (SSEs).
- Existing SSEs present significant advantages but also critical weaknesses, hindering industrial adoption.
- Developing effective SSEs is central to advancing battery technology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a novel, thin, and dense solid-state separator based on lithiated polyphenylene sulfide (PPS-SSS).
- To enhance the performance of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) through improved ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability.
- To demonstrate the practicality of LMBs using the developed PPS-SSS.
Main Methods:
- A solvent-free, pilot-scale process was used to prepare the lithiated polyphenylene sulfide-based solid state separator (PPS-SSS).
- Functionalization of the PPS surface was performed to immobilize anions and improve Li+ transference.
- Electrochemical characterization included ionic conductivity, transference number, and electrochemical potential window (EPW) measurements.
- Homogeneity of lithium plating on copper was assessed at a specific current density.
- Performance of Li-metal batteries (LMBs) was evaluated using limited Li-plated or anode-free copper, high-loading cathodes, and high voltage.
Main Results:
- The PPS-SSS exhibited a high Li+ transference number (0.8-0.9) and an EPW > 5.1 V.
- High intrinsic Li+ diffusion coefficient and ionic conductivity (>10^-4 S cm^-1) were observed at 25 °C.
- A Li+ transport rectifying effect led to homogenous Li-plating on copper.
- LMBs with polyethylene (PE) protected PPS-SSSs achieved high energy (>1000 Wh L^-1) and power densities (>900 W L^-1).
- The batteries demonstrated over 200 cycles with high safety, surpassing state-of-the-art Li-ion batteries.
Conclusions:
- The developed PPS-SSS offers a promising solution for solid-state electrolytes in lithium metal batteries.
- The material's properties enable high performance, long cycle life, and enhanced safety.
- This advancement significantly promotes the practical application of lithium metal batteries.
