The development of a commercially viable gel electrolyte by researchers from POSTECH represents a groundbreaking advancement for lithium-ion batteries, especially in terms of safety and stability. This discovery is timely, especially given the fact that electric vehicles, as well as energy storage systems, are rapidly emerging on the market. By addressing key challenges with liquid electrolytes, the research team has paved the way for safer, more durable, and commercially scalable battery technologies.

The Problem with Conventional Liquid Electrolytes

Some of the limitations that are associated with the liquid electrolytes include flammability and the possibility of explosion in the lithium-ion batteries most especially when exposed to heat or when undergoing severe stress. This has necessitated new developments including the solid-state and gel electrolytes, the latter being a middle ground between stability, energy density and increased battery life. However, issues of production and cost efficiency have been indicators of the slow commercialization of the two.

To overcome these challenges, Professor Soojin Park’s group has designed a safer gel electrolyte that is economical when compared to conventional gel electrolyte material and compatible with existing lithium battery manufacturing processes. This has been mainly achieved through a cross-linkable additive combined with an e-beam (electron beam) technology—which has brought about reduced generation of gas and enhanced battery durability.

The team’s pouch-type battery, equipped with this innovative gel electrolyte, has demonstrated reduced gas generation during initial charging and discharging, as well as superior performance at elevated temperatures. This makes the technology especially relevant for electric vehicles, where battery safety and reliability are paramount. The potential for mass production of these batteries further underscores the commercial viability of this breakthrough.

Researchers at POSTECH, under the leadership of Professor Soojin Park, have achieved a major advancement in lithium-ion battery technology with the creation of a commercially viable gel electrolyte, significantly improving both safety and stability

The team’s pouch-type battery with this new gel electrolyte has shown less gas evolution during the initial charge and discharge cycle and also has been shown to perform well at elevated temperatures. This makes the technology even more suitable for electric vehicles in which the safety of the batteries cannot be overemphasized. This means that, at large, the prospects for mass production of these batteries make this discovery relatively more lucrative in the commercial market.

How Can MSE Supplies Help

MSE Supplies is supporting these kinds of progress with a range of materials and equipment for lithium battery research. Our products are tailored exactly to the requirements of researchers and manufacturers working with gel electrolyte technologies and more. MSE Supplies is aiding in the movement of research lab discoveries to real-world situations through the availability of high-purity lithium salts and advanced electrode materials, along with the latest characterization technologies.

Whether you’re researching new battery materials or extending manufacturing procedures, MSE Supplies is here as your innovation ally. These are some categories that we provide:

• Battery Material Analysis Equipment: Concise instruments to analyze material behaviors and capabilities.
• Battery Testing Equipment: This is used to accurately test and characterize battery systems.
• Anode Materials & Cathode Materials: This helps to increase battery capacity and prolong battery life.
• Cell Fabrication Equipment: Essential tools used in making and enhancing battery cells.
• Solid Electrolyte Materials: Modern materials designed to help construct safer and better-quality batteries.

We present a complete array of solutions for fulfilling the changing requirements of the Lithium Battery & Renewable Energy sector.

Developing gel electrolytes signifies an essential step in the pursuit of safer and more competent lithium-ion batteries. MSE Supplies is dedicated to promoting the advancement of battery technology and its supporting research. Our assortment of products is fully featured to enable innovation and make certain that cutting-edge discoveries such as these can become realized in practical applications.

Contact MSE Supplies today to find out more about their services that support your research and development initiatives. For the most up-to-date information and insights regarding lithium battery technology, please follow us on LinkedIn.

Source: 

1. Seoha Nam, Hye Bin Son, Chi Keung Song, Chang‐Dae Lee, Yeongseok Kim, Jin‐Hyeok Jeong, Woo‐Jin Song, Dong‐Hwa Seo, Tae Sung Ha, Soojin Park. Mitigating Gas Evolution in Electron Beam‐Induced Gel Polymer Electrolytes Through Bi‐Functional Cross–Linkable Additives. Small, 2024; DOI: 10.1002/smll.202401426
2. Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH). "Whoever controls electrolytes will pave the way for electric vehicles." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 24 June 2024. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240624125607.htm>.