Japanese technology company Asahi Kasei announced that it has successfully achieved proof of concept (POC) of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) using its proprietary high ionic conductive electrolyte. This technological breakthrough allows for increased power output even at low temperatures and improved durability at high temperatures — both pressing issues of current LIBs.
Furthermore, this technology can contribute to lower cost and smaller size of battery packs, further raising the energy density.
LIBs are recommended to be used within a temperature range of 10° to 45° C. The lower temperatures result in lower cell capacity, lower power output, and longer charging times, while the higher temperatures result in accelerated aging which reduces battery service life. With the rapidly emerging market of energy storage systems worldwide, especially in the field of electric vehicles, stable battery performance and high durability at extreme temperatures are of significant importance.
Enabling battery size and cost reduction
Asahi Kasei is a pioneer in the field of lithium-ion battery research and battery material manufacturing. Asahi Kasei began developing an electrolyte with high ionic conductivity in 2010, when Honorary Fellow Akira Yoshino2 focused on acetonitrile as a promising ingredient in lithium-ion battery electrolytes. By using the high ionic conductive electrolyte, it is possible to reduce batteries pack size while maintaining the power output, contributing to higher battery energy density and lower overall pack cost. The projected benefits are shown below.
Commercialization set for 2025
Compared to cells made with conventional electrolyte, the tested prototype cylindrical cells showed high power at −40° C and double the cycle life at 60° C before reaching a state of health (SOH) of 80%. Commercialization is targeted for 2025.
“This proof of concept is a technological breakthrough,” said Kazuya Noda, senior GM of Asahi Kasei’s Innovation Strategy Center. “By licensing the electrolyte technology to LIB manufactures worldwide, Asahi Kasei aims to contribute to lower cost and more compact battery systems, which are a key driver to achieve a more sustainable society.”
Filed Under: Batteries, Technology News