There’s no denying the Achilles heel of lithium batteries is their haphazard ability to catch fire. As a result, first responders act with caution at electric vehicle accidents, although most vapers puff away regardless. Now, John Hopkins lithium battery scientists in Laurel, Maryland have developed a flexible version able to withstand these challenges.
Extreme Conditions, No Challenge for John Hopkins Lithium Battery
A John Hopkins Laboratory press release announced another notable achievement on the road to perfect lithium batteries on October 14, 2019. It says a new, flexible lithium battery can withstand “cutting, submersion and simulated ballistic impact”. Moreover, it can’t catch fire.
Current lithium-ion technology involves flammable, combustible materials and these can cause explosions. However, the John Hopkins lithium battery design could herald the end of restrictions on passenger aircraft. Although we might prefer to see the U.S. Navy embargo on vaping in submarines continue for health reasons. This is despite the new technology providing a safe, powerful alternative lithium battery.
A New Class of Electrolytes in a Polymer Matrix
The latest John Hopkins flexible lithium battery uses a new class of “water-in-salt” and “water-in-basalt” electrolytes. These reduce water activity, elevate energy capabilities, and extend cycle life after incorporation in a polymer matrix. The design also eliminates “the flammable, toxic and highly reactive solvents present in current lithium-ion batteries” the press release explains.
“Our UV-cured polymer is a freestanding, mechanically robust film, akin to a contact lens,” team leader Konstantinos Gerasopoulos adds. “We can burn our batteries, cut them and stress them in other ways, and they still operate.” His research could be a significant step away from cylindrical and prismatic cell types. Those rigid designs are necessary to contain flammable liquids that might otherwise catch fire.
However, a battery as soft as a contact lens could turn stored energy into a non-flammable art form. Now that would be something to write about.
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