A research group at Cornell University in New York has made significant strides in enhancing the safety of lithium-ion batteries by developing a novel solution aimed at preventing explosions. Their findings were recently published in the American Chemical Society’s scientific journal.
The project, led by Assistant Professor Yu Zhong, addresses a critical issue in lithium-ion batteries: dendrite formation. Dendrites are thin, conductive fibers that can grow inside batteries, compromising their lifespan and posing risks of fire and explosion. In Australia alone, over 10,000 fires stemming from lithium-ion batteries are reported each year, highlighting the urgent need for safety improvements in this area.
To tackle this challenge, the research team introduced a new type of porous crystal that facilitates the effective movement of lithium ions. This advanced crystal is designed with high porosity, enabling ions to traverse through one-way nanochannels without obstruction. Lead author Yuzhe Wang explained that the team utilized two unique molecular structures—macrocycles and molecular cages—as building blocks for these porous crystals. This innovative approach allows for ample ion storage space and interconnected channels for efficient ion transport.
Professor Zhong notes that the new crystal offers “an ideal pathway for ion transport” and achieves record-level conductivity for solid lithium ion-conducting electrolytes. The team has gained valuable insights into the effectiveness of this structure in ion transport and its high conductivity capabilities.
Beyond enhancing battery safety, the implications of this research extend to other fields, including the separation of ions and molecules for water filtration applications, as well as the development of ion-electron conductive structures for bioelectronic circuits and sensors.
