Researchers at Washington State University have developed a new conductive gum-like material that could improve the safety of lithium ion batteries.
Used in laptops, smartphones and other electronic devices, lithium ion batteries are capable of storing a large amount of energy compared to other batteries. Their biggest safety risk, however, comes from the electrolyte in the battery, which allows for movement of ions between the anode and the cathode to create electricity. Electrolytes are typically made of either a liquid or gel, as solids have been found to be inferior conductors and difficult to connect to the anode and cathode. According to the researchers, these solutions can leak and create a fire or chemical burn hazard and, while commercial battery manufacturers have altered battery designs with temperature sensors or flame retardant additives in an attempt to prevent these problems from occurring, they are unable to solve the problem fundamentally.
Inspired by the properties of chewing gum, the team created a hybrid liquid-solid lithium battery electrolyte they say conducts electricity as well as liquid electrolytes but without the fire hazard. According to the researchers, current is able to travel through the liquid parts of the electrolyte, while the solid particles act as protective mechanism, melting if the material gets too hot and stopping the electric conduction to prevent a fire or other problem. The material is also flexible and lightweight, and could be used in future flexible electronics.
The team hopes to begin testing their material in real batteries in the near future.
