Beyond state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology with metallic lithium anodes to replace conventional ion intercalation anode materials is highly desirable because of lithium’s highest specific capacity (3,860 mA/g) and lowest negative electrochemical potential (∼3.040 V vs. the standard hydrogen electrode). Here, we report for the first time, to our knowledge, a 3D lithium-ion–conducting ceramic network based on garnet-type Li6.4La3Zr2Al0.2O12 (LLZO) lithium-ion conductor to provide continuous Li+ transfer channels in a polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based composite. This composite structure further provides structural reinforcement to enhance the mechanical properties of the polymer matrix. The flexible solid-state electrolyte composite membrane exhibited an ionic conductivity of 2.5 × 10−4 S/cm at room temperature. The membrane can effectively block dendrites in a symmetric Li | electrolyte | Li cell during repeated lithium stripping/plating at room temperature, with a current density of 0.2 mA/cm2 for around 500 h and a current density of 0.5 mA/cm2 for over 300 h. The presentation will focus on our recent development of 3D garnet nano structured solid-state electrolyte membrane for Li metal batteries. Based on this concept, recently we also employed a textile-template process to create the proof-of-concept lithium ion conductive fibrous ceramic fabrics, which generates unique structure with fine 3D scale distribution of continues lithium ion conductive phase, high surface area/volume ratio, low gravimetric density, multi-level porosity, certain strength and flexibility, for solid-state safe, high energy Li-metal batteries. The architectural advantages may allow the fibrous ceramic fabrics to be integrated to build components of batteries, such as flexible composite polymer electrolyte and rigid electrode skeleton. The fibrous garnet textile shows pronounced new characteristic features to tolerate certain flexural strength, geometrical tailoring and organic solvent erosion, which are distinct from the rigid appearance of typical sintered ceramic body. The chemical analysis confirmed cubic phase of the fibrous garnet fabric and homogenous distribution of the constituent elements. Because of the simplicity, rapidity and cost saving characteristics of template method, applicable transition from laboratory scale fabrication procedure to industry scale manufacturing is potentially achievable.

Design and manufacturing of flexible, ion-conducting composite electrolytes for solid-state batteries

2019 Spring National Meeting

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.