As mobile electronics continue to evolve, the need for
high-output, long-lasting rechargeable batteries has grown tremendously. In the
search for suitable materials from which to construct high energy density
batteries, one of the principal obstacles has been the provision of a suitable
electrolyte that exhibits the right combination of conductivity and ion
mobility, stability, and wide electrochemical window. Very few electrolytes have
been developed thus far that exhibit the above combination of performance
parameters. Despite significant research in the area, there remains a need for
improved electrolytes that can be easily incorporated into voltaic cells without
significant extra cost.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new
class of liquid electrolytes which comprise the reaction product of a strong
Lewis acid with an inorganic halide-donating molecule. The resulting
electrolytes are stable, highly conductive, and have a wide electrochemical
window. As such, they are excellent targets for use in rechargeable
electrochemical devices such as batteries.
This technology part of a suite of electrolyte and battery
technologies developed at Arizona State University. Significant testing has been
completed, and the results have been published. At this time, AzTE is seeking
potential partners and licensees for this issued patent and related
technologies.
Potential Applications
- Rechargeable Batteries
- Fuel Cells
- Photovoltaic Cells
- Gas Sensors
- Other Electrochemical Applications
Benefits and Advantages
- Very High Stability – The electrolytes are stable in the
liquid phase. Additionally, they are highly resistant to degradation in the
presence of alkali metals.
- High Solubility – The electrolytes can dissolve large
mole fractions of most electrolyte solutions including alkali salts.
- Wide Temperature Range – The electrolytes offer high
conductivity from room temperature down to -40° C, and are less volatile than
others.
- Wide Electrochemical Window – The electrolytes have a
wide electrochemical window, ranging from 4 to in excess of 5
volts.
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