South Korean researchers have unveiled a lithium-ion battery with a triple-layer solid polymer electrolyte, capable of extinguishing itself if ignited.
It's also resistant to explosion.
The work was done by teams at at the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST). Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, which use flammable liquid electrolytes, this innovative design not only enhances safety but also offers improved longevity, retaining 87.9% of its performance even after 1,000 charge-discharge cycles—outperforming the typical 70-80% seen in standard batteries.
The key to this breakthrough lies in the three-layer polymer structure.
A strong zeolite middle layer provides stability, while the softer outer layers enhance electrode contact and overall battery efficiency. One side contains fire-retardant decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) to prevent and extinguish fires, while a lithium salt (LiTFSI) accelerates ion movement, reducing dendrite formation—a common issue that degrades performance and increases fire risks.
This design marks a significant step toward safer, more efficient energy storage solutions and could revolutionize sectors ranging from electric vehicles to large-scale renewable energy systems.
