The Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) has recently made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of lithium batteries. They have developed a redox-active metal-organic hybrid electrode material known as SKIER-5 that shows remarkable stability even in freezing temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the world of battery technology, particularly in applications where low-temperature performance is crucial.

Traditionally, graphite has been the go-to material for anodes in lithium-ion batteries due to its stability and affordability. However, graphite has significant drawbacks when it comes to operating in subzero conditions. At low temperatures, the storage capacity of batteries with graphite anodes drops significantly, and the formation of dendrites on the anode surface during charging poses a serious safety risk, potentially resulting in thermal runaway and explosions.

Led by a team of researchers including Dr. Jungjoon Yoo, Dr. Kanghoon Yim, and Dr. Hyunuk Kim, KIER has developed SKIER-5, a redox-active conductive metal-organic framework that addresses the shortcomings of graphite anodes. This innovative framework is constructed from a trianthrene-based organic ligand and nickel ions, providing a discharge capacity that is five times higher than that of graphite in subzero environments. Even at room temperature, SKIER-5 outperforms graphite, achieving a discharge capacity of 440 mAh/g compared to 375 mAh/g for graphite.

One of the most impressive features of SKIER-5 is its exceptional performance even after numerous charge-discharge cycles. After 1,600 cycles, the capacity of SKIER-5 increased by approximately 1.5 times, reaching 600 mAh/g. This is a rare occurrence in battery technology, as discharge capacity typically declines with repeated cycles. The redox mechanism of SKIER-5, which involves nickel ions and heteroatoms-based organic ligands, allows for increased electron storage and higher discharge capacities.

The performance of SKIER-5 has been validated through first-principles calculations based on quantum chemistry. By determining the crystalline structure of SKIER-5 and predicting lithium adsorption sites, the research team was able to accurately forecast the material’s theoretical capacity and reaction voltage. The calculated values closely aligned with experimental results, confirming the superior performance of SKIER-5 as a lithium battery anode.

SKIER-5 represents a significant advancement in lithium battery technology. Its ability to maintain stable performance even in extreme low-temperature conditions makes it a promising candidate for a wide range of applications, including electric vehicles, drones, and ultra-small electronic devices. With its exceptional discharge capacity, longevity, and safety features, SKIER-5 has the potential to reshape the landscape of battery technology and pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.

Technology

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