Glycerol Triacetate-Based Flame Retardant High-Temperature Electrolyte for the Lithium-Ion Battery

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• High-temperature rechargeable batteries (>70 °C) are crucial for industrial applications but face limitations in safety, cycle life, energy density, and cost.
• Existing high-temperature battery technologies are hindered by limited electrolyte options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel flame-retardant electrolyte for stable battery cycling at 100 °C.
• To improve the safety, cycle life, and energy density of high-temperature batteries.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of triacetin into the electrolyte system.
• Testing of Li-metal half-cells with triacetin-based electrolytes and various cathode chemistries.
• Performance evaluation including Coulombic efficiency and cycle life.
• Safety assessment using nail penetration tests on commercial-scale pouch batteries.

Main Results:

• Stable battery cycling at 100 °C was achieved using a triacetin-based flame-retardant electrolyte.
• Li-metal half-cells demonstrated high energy density, high Coulombic efficiency, and good cycle life.
• Nail penetration tests showed suppressed heat generation and excellent safety in damaged pouch cells.

Conclusions:

• Triacetin-based electrolytes offer a promising solution for high-temperature rechargeable batteries.
• The developed electrolyte enhances battery performance and safety, addressing key limitations in current technologies.
• This advancement paves the way for reliable high-temperature battery applications in demanding sectors.