Researchers have found a promising alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries: rubber. EV batteries consisting of rubber are expected to be cost-effective, stronger, and safer.
Can rubber electrolytes be used for all-solid-state batteries?
Georgia Tech engineers have solved common problems (slow lithium-ion transport and poor mechanical properties) using rubber electrolytes. Prof. Seung Woo Lee (left) and Michael J. Lee (right) have demonstrated a more cost-effective, safer solid polymer electrolyte (rubber material) for all-solid-state batteries. (Photo credit: Georgia Tech)
For electric vehicles (EVs) to become mainstream, they need cost-effective, safer, longer-lasting batteries that won't explode during use or harm the environment. Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology may have found a promising alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries made from a common material: rubber.
Why is rubber used in batteries?
“Rubber has been used everywhere because of its high mechanical properties, and it will allow us to make cheap, more reliable and safer batteries,” said Lee. “Higher ionic conductivity means you can move more ions at the same time,” said Michael Lee, a mechanical engineering graduate researcher.
Are EV batteries made of rubber?
EV batteries consisting of rubber are expected to be cost-effective, stronger, and safer. Li-ion batteries have a high energy density. They are fragile, however. They contain flammable electrolytes and if damaged or incorrectly charged can lead to explosions and fires.
However, conventional polymer electrolytes do not have sufficient ionic conductivity and mechanical stability for reliable operation of solid-state batteries. Georgia Tech engineers have solved common problems (slow lithium-ion transport and poor mechanical properties) using the rubber electrolytes.
Why is a battery rubbery?
The rubbery material can bounce back from bumps to the battery, and maintains a smooth connection with the electrodes. That keeps its conductivity high but also prevents the growth of lithium dendrites, which are often the first step towards failure of a battery and can be determined in a suitable failure analysis lab.