The Kuan group provides a novel design of polymer electrolyte membrane with asymmetric structure to tackle the current challenges on all-solid-state lithium-metal batteries.
Synthesis and Development of Asymmetric Polymer Electrolyte Membrane for All-Solid-State Lithium-Metal Batteries
Abstract
All-solid-state battery with lithium-metal anode has long been considered as a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage device due to its high energy density, enhanced stability, and potentially low cost compared to existing lithium ion systems. Within the all-solid-state design, solid electrolyte is one necessary component. Although recent progress on solid electrolytes with high ionic conductivity and high mechanical strength is exciting, there are still significant challenges to be overcome. Particularly, stabilizing the lithium-metal anode from uncontrollable lithium dendrite growth is understood to be a critical requirement for enabling practical applications of lithium-metal batteries. Therefore, this work proposes a novel design of polymer-polymer composite electrolyte membrane with asymmetric structure in order to restrict the lithium dendrite growth without compromising the transport of lithium ion. The key objectives are to (1) rationally design porous PVDF membranes with nanoporous skin layer and bi-continuous bulk layer, and utilize their unique characteristics to suppress lithium dendrite; (2) synthesize single-ion polymers and fill them into the pores of PVDF matrix to complete the composite electrolytes; (3) assemble the all-solid-state lithium-metal battery and optimize the battery performance.