Researchers in major breakthrough: New battery stores twice as much energy

An international research team has developed a new battery technology that can double the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries.

This could have a major impact on electric vehicle applications, where range and durability are crucial factors.

Researchers from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and Sogang University in South Korea have presented a new design called the In-Situ-Interlocking-Electrode-Electrolyte-System (IEE system).

It differs from traditional batteries by creating chemical bonds between the electrode and electrolyte, rather than just physical contact between the components.

According to the university’s press release, the new structure is likened to bricks set together with hardened mortar.

This should prevent mechanical damage that typically occurs in batteries with silicone anodes.

Silicon as the key to higher capacity

Many research projects have focused on using silicon as a replacement for graphite in the battery anode.

Silicon can store up to ten times more lithium ions, but it expands greatly during charging and shrinks during discharging.

This creates “stress” in the material and shortens its lifespan.

The IEE design addresses this challenge by forming an interlocked structure that can withstand the mechanical stresses of silicon volume changes.

Test results show that batteries with the new design retain their capacity over many cycles and have significantly higher energy density than commercial alternatives.

The gravimetric energy density of a pouch cell with the IEE design is measured at 403.7 Wh/kg, while the volumetric energy density is 1300 Wh/L.

In comparison, Tesla’s 4680 cells, supplied by manufacturer CATL, are 241 Wh/kg and 643 Wh/L respectively.

Long way to commercial use

Although the results from lab tests are promising, the technology is not yet ready for mass production.

So far, the batteries have only been produced in laboratory scale, with small amounts of active material.

The challenge now is to scale up production and maintain the high precision of the chemical bonds.

In addition, manufacturing costs are expected to be high, partly due to extra process steps that cannot be easily implemented in existing battery production.

According to Professor Soojin Park from POSTECH, the study marks an important step towards the future of battery technology, where both high energy density and longevity are in focus.