Low-concentration, nonflammable electrolytes for potassium-ion batteries
This technology is a multi-solvent electrolyte for potassium-ion batteries, enabling safe and stable cycling.
Unmet Need: Safe, cost-effective, efficient battery electrolytes
Potassium-ion batteries provide a cost-effective alternative to lithium and sodium-ion batteries for energy storage. However, issues with conductivity and combustible electrolyte solutions have severely stunted market applications. Triethyl phosphate has been identified as a potential electrolyte solvent, but high concentrations of potassium salts are necessary, increasing production cost while simultaneously decreasing ionic conductivity.
The Technology: Low-concentration electrolyte solution for high-conductivity potassium-ion batteries
The technology is a low-concentration liquid electrolyte of 1 M potassium hexafluorophosphate (KPF6) dissolved in commercially available solvents, ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, and triethyl phosphate. This formulation enables stable cycling with graphite anodes without electrolyte degradation. The electrolyte retains high ionic conductivity due to the cyclic carbonates, and is inherently nonflammable as both a liquid and vapor, greatly improving the safety of energy storage materials.
Applications:
- Electric vehicles
- Portable electronics
- Batteries for harsh conditions
- Energy storage materials
- Fast-charging batteries
Advantages:
- Compatible with graphite
- Cost-effective
- High Coulombic efficiency
- Low-concentration
- Non-flammable
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU25001
Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu