Innovation in rechargeable batteries is accelerating, with growing interest in all-solid-state technologies. A team of Japanese researchers has just made a significant breakthrough, opening up new possibilities for the future of energy storage.
Rechargeable batteries are ubiquitous in modern society. They power a multitude of devices, from smartphones to electric vehicles. The durability of these devices depends on several key factors: better charge retention, increased longevity in terms of recharge cycles, and enhanced security. All-solid-state batteries represent a promising avenue for achieving these objectives.
A major innovation in the composition of electrolytes
Identifying solid electrolytes that provide the desired benefits is a major challenge. A research team from Osaka Metropolitan University recently took an important step in this direction.
The research group, led by Assistant Professor Kota Motohashi, Associate Professor Atsushi Sakuda and Professor Akitoshi Hayashi from the Graduate School of Engineering, developed an electrolyte with remarkable properties. The electrolyte developed stands out for its high conductivity, formability and electrochemical stability.
High conductivity at room temperature was achieved by the team by adding Ta2O5 (tantalum pentoxide) to the solid electrolyte NaTaCl6, a previously developed combination of tantalum chloride and sodium chloride.
Superior properties for newly discovered electrolyte
The solid electrolyte discovered, of formula Na2.25TaCl4.75O1.25, has characteristics superior to conventional chlorides. It is distinguished in particular by a increased electrochemical stability and improved mechanical properties.
Professor Motohashi said of this discovery: “The results of this research are expected to contribute significantly to the development of composite solid electrolytes, complementing the glassy and crystalline solid electrolytes developed to date.» He added: “We will now focus on elucidating the ionic conduction mechanism of composite solid electrolytes and developing new materials.»
This advance broadens the field of possibilities for the development of more efficient and durable batteries. THE composite solid electrolytes could play a key role in improving energy storage technologies.
Future research will focus on in-depth understanding of ionic conduction mechanisms and the exploration of new materials. These efforts could lead to the design of more efficient, safer and more environmentally friendly batteries, meeting our society’s growing needs for energy storage.
Illustration caption: Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered this solid electrolyte, Na2.25TaCl4.75O1.25, which has the potential to be a suitable material for solid-state batteries.
Article : ‘Fast Sodium-Ion Conducting Amorphous Oxychloride Embedding Nanoparticles’ / ( 10.1021/acs.chemmater.4c02104 ) – Osaka Metropolitan University – Publication dans la revue Chemistry of Materials
