Columbia University scientists propose an alternative to lithium-ion batteries

Without exaggeration, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere: in phones, remotes, flashlights, etc. And, despite all their advantages, they have a number of significant disadvantages, and the most significant are: rather low energy density and a high probability of ignition when the electrolyte overheats or deformation case.

Why are looking for an alternative to lithium-ion batteries

Replacing lithium-ion batteries with solid-state batteries was considered a promising direction, but due to their high cost and rather a significant problem, namely the formation of dendrites (special build-ups of metallic lithium) in the battery, which, growing, significantly reduced capacity.

But a group of scientists from Columbia University (USA), as a result of numerous experiments, managed to find an opportunity to protect batteries from the formation of dendrites.

Experiments have shown that to prevent the formation of dendrites and avoid short circuits, it is necessary isolate the anode and cathode with a 5-10 nm boron nitrite nanofilm that does not interfere with the passage of ions lithium.

In addition, it was proposed to use a ceramic electrolyte together with a small amount of liquid electrolyte in the “new” battery. Research is still ongoing, and the possibilities of using other materials in the battery composition and optimization of production are being considered.

The scientific team still has a lot of tests and improvements before the project goes to commercial implementation.

Conclusion

Laboratory research and paper conclusions are, of course, great, but I want to emphasize that the group from Columbia The university has been continuing its experiments with alternative research to lithium-ion batteries for 8 years.

But during all this time, not a single solution has been issued that would have passed the final test.

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