Abstract

Thin and light metal/polymer composite films are promising substitutes for traditional heavy metal foils to enhance the energy density and safety of lithium ion or lithium batteries. Arising from the process of vacuum deposition and the soft nature of polymer substrate, the mechanical robustness of metal/polymer composite film is relatively poor, which limits its application in advanced batteries. We first clarify the failure mechanisms of metal layer under an ultrathin polymer substrate (<5um) through FEM simulation and theoretical analysis, and propose designing strategies of high-strength metal and tough interfaces for a mechanically robust metal/polymer composite film. Then, the mechanical stability of composite films in the calendaring process of battery assembly is systematically discussed. We correlate the mechanical failures to the electrical degradation in composite films. Finally, the composite films decorated with various heterogeneous surfaces are used to improve the electrochemical performances of advanced anode-free lithium batteries, which are promising for enhancing the flight time of air drones.

Biography

Xiangbiao Liao is the professor of ARiMS at Beijing Institute of Technology. Prof. Liao obtained bachelor degree from University of Science and Technology of China in 2015. He finished the Ph.D. study at Columbia University in 2019, followed by working as a postdoctoral research scientist until 2021. He has published 50 more research journal papers. His group currently focuses on the interdisciplinary research between mechanics and energy material/devices, including 1) protection of battery and solar cell against mechanical abuses, 2) high-safety and high-energy-density lithium batteries, 3) conductive and ultrathin polymer/metal composite film with vacuum deposition techniques.