Operando XANES studies of chemical stability toward lithium metal. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh4626

Currently, the biggest hurdle for electric vehicles, or EVs, is the development of advanced battery technology to extend driving range, safety and reliability.

New research has shown how a novel -based electrolyte material, Li9N2Cl3, can be used to develop that charge faster and store more energy than conventional designs. Experiments revealed the solid-electrolyte was not only stable in normal air environments, but it also inhibited the growth of dendrites—dangerous, branchlike formations that cause batteries to catch fire.

The findings are published in the journal Science Advances.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientist Jue Liu conducted neutron experiments to observe how lithium moved through the material.

"The material's dry air stability, efficient lithium-ion transport and high compatibility toward metallic lithium are crucial advances. It's the best of both worlds," he said. "It offers all the performance benefits of liquid-electrolyte batteries that we use every day, but it's safer and more reliable."

More information: Weihan Li et al, Lithium-compatible and air-stable vacancy-rich Li9N2Cl3 for high–areal capacity, long-cycling all–solid-state lithium metal batteries, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh4626

Journal information: Science Advances

Provided by Oak Ridge National Laboratory