| For devices with multiple components working together, the performances of the device are not only dependent on the bulk properties of the components, but also on the interfaces inside the system. However, current battery technology based on a simple combination of battery components usually gives rise to a battery with weak interfaces and so, poor structural integrity, which remarkably deteriorates the device performance during cycling. In this project, first, we propose a new concept, Interfacial Energy Materials (IEMs), for the integration of battery components. Based on this concept, then, we developed two types of multi-functional gum-like nanocomposites with strong adhesion properties as examples for IEMs: including gum-like electrolyte and gum-like dual-conductive adhesive as the binder material. (1) Gum-like electrolyte with thermal-protection capability. High ionic conductivity at the level of liquid electrolytes (10-3 S/cm), strong adhesion properties (adhesion strength: 0.3 MPa), good mechanical properties (modulus of 0.1 MPa at 1Hz) and thermal-protection capability (fuse-like function to automatically show down the battery before it gets on fire) have been integrated into the gummy electrolyte. The roles of wax particles in controlling these significant properties have been systematic studied. At the same time, single-ion gum-like electrolyte has also been realized mainly via the control of the surfactant on the wax particles. (2) Gum-like dual-conductive adhesive (DCA) as an advanced binder materials. Based on the gum-like electrolyte, we further developed the DCA as advanced binder material for battery electrodes. The significant properties achieved for the DCA include strong adhesion properties, good electrical and ionic conductivities, and appropriate rheological properties. These significant properties of binders are highly desired by composite electrodes. Benefited from these significant properties, various plastic composite electrodes have been fabricated with well-integrated structures, optimized conductivities and excellent conformability/stretchability, which has never been realized before based on the author's knowledge. The concept of IEMs will have broad impacts on energy materials and device performances. Also, the proposed gum-like nanocomposites with integration of the significant properties/functions desired by energy materials provide a good example for developing multi-functional energy materials, which are in critical need by next generation of high-performance ESDs. |
