Novel multiphase structural nanocomposite electrolytes

Energy storage plays a crucial role in todays modern society as well as in numerous technology implementations. Portable end user devices (e.g. laptops, tablets, smartphones), electronic cars and alternative energy conversion (solar energy, wind and water power) require batteries and other power storage solutions. All these industries have a high demand for safer, lighter and more efficient materials for future applications. There are many different approaches in research to improve existing technologies and developing new materials for that purpose. A very promising route is the design of all-solid- batteries, which do not contain any liquid components to avoid leakage of flammable, hazardous solvents. At the same time, the replacement of liquid electrolytes by solid electrolytes that can be made of polymers, also reduces the weight significantly. However, up to now, there are many unsolved problems finding polymers, which meet certain requirements regarding conductivity and mechanical stability. Combining suitable polymers with microscopic particles to composite materials, has an enormous potential to provide these desired properties. In this project at Columbia University, novel nanocomposite materials will be developed to meet high standards for future energy storage applications. In corporation with Prof. Yuan Yangs group, Dr. Gerald Singer leads this 2-year project, focusing on specially functionalized and aligned nanostructures to improve the performance of polymer electrolytes. New insights in this area will support further research and open up future prospects in the development of high- performance energy storage materials.

In this project, a novel approach was developed to simultaneously improve the energy density and mechanical performance of multifunctional composites, also referred to as "structural batteries". A polymer-based electrolyte with high ionic conductivity and mechanical properties was developed that could successfully be implemented in lithium-ion batteries and demonstrated exceptional long-term cycling stability with modern high voltage cathode materials. The in-situ polymerization approach only requires low temperatures and can be applied using common battery assembly techniques, which makes the process cost-efficient and scalable. This study represents promising results towards the practical application of structural batteries for electric transportation. Implementation of the developed technology in electric vehicles could result in increased mileage, safety and weight reduction.