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Solid-state Graft Copolymer Electrolytes for Lithium Battery Applications
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Dual-domain solvent-locked electrolyte enabled durable 4.5 V-class sodium batteries
Jiyu Zhang1, Guochuan Tang1, Siyu Ma1
1College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
Nature Communications
|May 5, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a novel solvent-locked carbonate electrolyte for sodium-ion batteries. This innovation enhances stability at high voltages, enabling longer lifespans and improved energy density for sustainable energy storage.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Sodium-ion batteries offer a sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to resource availability and safety.
- Increasing operating voltage is key to enhancing sodium-ion battery energy density.
- Electrolyte instability at high voltages leads to electrode degradation and capacity fade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design a stable electrolyte for high-voltage sodium-ion batteries.
- To improve electrode stability and cycle life.
- To enable higher energy density in sodium-ion battery systems.
Main Methods:
- Development of a solvent-locked carbonate electrolyte.
- Investigation of electrolyte-electrode interfacial chemistry.
- Electrochemical testing of sodium-ion cells with commercial cathode materials.
Main Results:
- The novel electrolyte forms a stable, anion-rich interphase on the positive electrode.
- Electrolyte decomposition and parasitic reactions are suppressed.
- Na||Na2.26Fe1.87(SO4)3 cells demonstrate exceptional cycle life up to 4.5 V, retaining over 88% capacity after 16,500 cycles.
Conclusions:
- The solvent-locked electrolyte enables stable high-voltage operation of sodium-ion batteries.
- The designed interphase effectively protects the electrode surface.
- This approach paves the way for durable, high-energy sodium-ion batteries.
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