Ultrahigh-Temperature-Tolerance Lithium Metal Batteries Enabled by Molecular-Level Polymer Configuration Design with...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) offer high energy density but face challenges in thermal stability for practical applications.
• Extreme temperatures impede the performance and safety of conventional electrolytes in LMBs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an ultrahigh-temperature-tolerance polymer-based electrolyte (UPE) for stable LMB operation.
• To investigate the molecular design principles for enhancing thermal stability and ionic conductivity in polymer electrolytes.

Main Methods:

• Design and synthesis of a novel polymer electrolyte with 'ester-ether-fluorinated segment' architecture.
• Experimental characterization of ionic conductivity, lithium-ion transference number, and interfacial properties.
• Theoretical analysis of Li+ ion transport mechanisms and coordination framework formation.

Main Results:

• The UPE prototype demonstrates stable operation of polymer-based LMBs across a wide temperature range (25-150°C).
• The unique molecular structure facilitates robust Li+ coordination and efficient ion decoupling, leading to high ionic conductivity.
• The electrolyte exhibits excellent interfacial compatibility with lithium metal anodes.

Conclusions:

• The developed UPE offers a promising solution for high-performance, thermally stable lithium metal batteries.
• The study presents a molecular-level design framework for advanced polymer electrolytes, paving the way for next-generation energy storage.