Shear Thickening Electrolytes for High Impact Resistant Batteries

Abstract

We demonstrate a shear thickening electrolyte that stiffens into a solid-like barrier during a high energy event, like a car crash. This barrier prevents the electrodes from shorting during an impact, reducing the risk of fire or catastrophic safety events. In addition, we have demonstrated the ability to cycle NMC/graphite lithium ion cells over 200 cycles with no loss of capacity after formation. This chemistry introduces multifunctionality to a material previously feared due to its flammability.