S. Korea researchers have this month unveiled a new flexible imprintable Li-ion battery they have developed, which is the first of its kind in the world.
Unlike conventional batteries that use liquefied electrolytes, the new flexible rechargeable battery uses nanomaterials that are applied to any given surface to create fluid-like polymer electrolytes. This innovative approach allows the battery to maintain flexibility and adaptability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from wearable technology to flexible electronic devices. Watch the video after the jump to learn more about the flexible Li-ion battery project and see it in action.
Advantages of the New Flexible Li-ion Battery
The S.Korean Ministry of Education, Science and Technology explains: “Conventional lithium-ion batteries that use liquefied electrolytes had problems with safety as the film that separates electrolytes may melt under heat, in which case the positive and negative may come in contact, causing an explosion,” – “Because the new battery uses flexible but solid materials, and not liquids, it can be expected to show a much higher level of stability than conventional rechargeable batteries.” This significant improvement in safety is crucial for the development of next-generation electronic devices, which require reliable and durable power sources.
Moreover, the flexibility of the new battery opens up possibilities for its integration into various innovative products. For instance, it can be used in flexible displays, smart clothing, and medical devices that conform to the human body. The ability to imprint the battery onto different surfaces also means that it can be seamlessly incorporated into the design of these products, enhancing their functionality and user experience.
Research and Development
The team of researchers is led by Prof. Lee Sang-young of South Korea’s Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, and included nine others from various institutes, including Prof. John A. Rogers of the University of Illinois. Their collaborative efforts have resulted in a breakthrough that could revolutionize the battery industry. The use of nanomaterials and fluid-like polymer electrolytes represents a significant departure from traditional battery technology, paving the way for more advanced and versatile energy storage solutions.
The development process involved extensive experimentation and testing to ensure the battery’s performance and safety. The researchers focused on optimizing the composition and structure of the nanomaterials to achieve the desired flexibility and stability. They also conducted rigorous tests to evaluate the battery’s durability under various conditions, including bending, stretching, and exposure to different temperatures.
The potential applications of this technology are vast. In addition to consumer electronics, the flexible Li-ion battery could be used in industrial and military applications where robust and reliable power sources are essential. For example, it could be integrated into flexible solar panels, providing a lightweight and efficient energy storage solution for remote locations or portable power systems.
As the demand for flexible and wearable electronics continues to grow, the development of this new battery technology is timely and highly relevant. It addresses the limitations of conventional batteries and offers a promising alternative that can meet the evolving needs of various industries.
Source: Toms Hardware : Yohap News
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