Fireproof Batteries - The End of Thermal Runaway Risks?

The Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) is set to transform lithium metal batteries with a groundbreaking “triple-layer solid polymer electrolyte.” According to DGIST, this offers superior fire safety and durability, and could revolutionise energy storage.

According to the team at DGIST, traditional lithium batteries face a critical issue with dendrites - tree-like lithium formations that develop over time during charging, leading to functionality disruptions and increased fire risks.

DGIST’s design overcomes this by incorporating three specialised layers in the electrolyte, Decabromodiphenyl Ethane, Zeolite and Lithium Bis Imide (LiTFSI) which prevents structural breakdown, while optimising electrode contact and enhancing ion movement.

This design not only eliminates dendrite formation, it also accelerates energy transfer and boosts safety. According to DGIST’s  press release, their batteries retain 87.9% of its capacity after 1,000 charge cycles, far surpassing the 70-80% typical achieved from conventional lithium batteries.

Furthermore, its self-extinguishing capability in the event of a fire sets a new benchmark for safety.

Late last year, LG Chem had also recently detailed a temperature-sensitive material as a "fuse," halting electricity flow during overheating. This material changes its molecular structure at temperatures between 90°C and 130°C, effectively preventing thermal runaway, a major cause of battery fires.

Efforts from both DGIST and LG Chem do come at the right time to address the issue of fear in EV ownership amongst Koreans after the recent string of EV fires in the country. This will also play a crucial role in creating safer, longer-lasting batteries, with immense potential for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.