9. Solid Polymer Electrolytes from Hydro-Québec

Battery 1 Minute
Crosslinked solid polymer electrolytes (SPE)

Patent

Epoxy (oxiranes) crosslinking with amines

Jeffamines (polyetheramines linked to amines – low temp crosslinking agents)

HydroQuebec

Karim Zaghib – director of the institute

Glycidyl methacrylate/poly(ethylene glycol) methyl methacrylate random copolymer before crosslinking with ethylenediamine.

Hydro-Québec has been a leading solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) innovation engine for more than 20 years. It has already licensed legitimate solid battery technologies to electric car manufacturers such as Bluecar and Dongshi Kingpower. While initially limited to LFP cathodes and 80C operating temperature, current SPE technology extends to high voltage NCM, NCA or LCO cathodes and can operate at a lower temperature of 40C. SPE electrolytes are also stable with lithium metal electrodes guaranteeing higher energy densities than lithium ion cells with conventional liquid electrolytes.

Cycle life of solid state batteries with SPE is governed by the electrochemical stability of the polymer during cycling. Since most such polymers are crosslinked in order to improve their mechanical and electrochemical properties, residual crosslinking agent may often remain in the SPE during battery operation. This may cause undesired side reactions and accelerate deterioration of SPE. In this patent, Hydro-Québec discloses a crosslinking strategy which improves electrochemical stability.

Published by Claudiu “Bobby” Bucur

Claudiu B. Bucur obtained his Ph.D. in 2008 from Florida State University under the mentorship of distinguished Leo Mandelkern Professor of Polymer Science, Joseph B. Schlenoff. He studied the manner in which polyelectrolyte multilayers assemble, and how doping them with ions changes their mechanical and thermodynamic properties. In 2010 he completed his postdoctoral studies at the USDA Agricultural Research Service Labs, where he investigated corrosion inhibition via biomembranes. Dr. Bucur then joined the Post Lithium Ion Research Group at the Toyota Research Institute of North America, where he focused on metallic anodes such as magnesium, lithium, sodium, and their electrolytes as well as high capacity conversion cathodes such as the sulfur cathode. He expanded upon his experience with polymers, corrosion, and interfaces and was able to advance many areas in the battery field. Currently, Dr. Bucur is Chief Engineer for new battery and solid electrolyte projects at Great Wall Motor, the largest SUV manufacturer in China. He is fascinated by energy storage and dreams of creating the ultimate battery.

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