China Creates Li-S Battery That Works Even After Being Cut in Half

Researchers in China have made a groundbreaking advancement in battery technology. They have developed a lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery that remains functional even when folded or cut. This innovation could potentially address significant safety concerns linked to conventional lithium-ion batteries.

The lithium-sulfur battery prototype, created by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, shows promising improvements. It overcomes typical drawbacks like short lifespans and safety risks, making it a viable alternative to existing battery technology.

Advantages of Li-S Batteries

Li-S batteries are poised as a superior alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to several compelling factors. They have greater energy storage capabilities and use abundant, inexpensive raw materials. Moreover, these batteries exhibit a higher theoretical energy density, which translates to longer usage times for devices.

However, the widespread adoption of Li-S batteries faces challenges. These include their short cycling life and low-rate performance. Additionally, safety concerns, primarily due to the use of lithium metal as an anode, further complicate their adoption.

Innovative Cathode Coating

To enhance the stability and functionality of Li-S batteries, researchers have proposed using a carbonate-based electrolyte. This electrolyte can separate the iron sulfide and lithium metal electrodes, making the battery stable at elevated temperatures.

Despite this, the cathode’s sulfide still dissolves into the electrolyte, forming a precipitate that compromises the cell’s capacity.

The research team, led by Liping Wang, introduced an additional layer between the cathode and electrolyte. This layer minimizes sulfur dissolution while maintaining the battery’s rechargeability. Polyacrylic acid (PAA) was identified as the optimal material, retaining discharge capacity even after 300 cycles.

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Battery Performance Post-Damage

The research team successfully produced battery prototypes with a PAA-coated iron sulfide cathode, a carbonate electrolyte, and a graphite-based anode.

After over 100 charge-discharge cycles, the pouch cell showed no decay and functioned even when folded or cut.

Liping Wang explained, “The battery continues to function after being cut due to its unique design, where the conductive network remains intact even after physical damage.”

Differences in Battery Designs

The lithium-sulfur battery’s innovative design ensures the conductive pathways remain functional, even after being cut. This robust and flexible design likely results from a specialized binder system.

After 300 cycles, the coin cell variant of the battery retained 72% of its original capacity. The disparity in performance between coin and pouch cells may arise from structural differences and how they handle electrochemical reactions.

Potential Applications

The research findings suggest that the improved Li-S batteries can have broader applications. The technology could enhance the performance and safety of various devices, including smartphones and electric vehicles.

Researchers applied the PAA coating to cathodes of lithium-molybdenum and lithium-vanadium batteries.

These batteries could be used in applications demanding high energy density and durability, if commercialized successfully.

Future Prospects

The development of this Li-S battery marks a significant milestone in battery technology advancement. It addresses key safety concerns and offers a more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries.

Continued research and refinement could lead to commercial viability, making this technology a staple in various industries.

Published Research

The research by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China has been published in the journal ACS Energy Letters.

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China’s development of a lithium-sulfur battery that remains functional even when damaged signifies a noteworthy progress in energy storage technology. It showcases potential for safer, more efficient batteries.

The continuous advancements and research in this field could lead to widespread commercial adoption, ultimately benefiting various sectors reliant on battery power.

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