A new stretchable hydrogel battery can withstand extreme conditions and still operate effectively, scientists say.
Scientists have created a stretchable, flexible, self-healing hydrogel battery that's free of the toxic components and moisture-related problems that have previously stood in the way of such products. The researchers demonstrated its robustness by cutting, stabbing and aggressively twisting it. Conventional soft lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have suffered from performance degradation that arises from moisture penetration. They also pose potential safety risks from toxic, flammable electrolytes, the scientists said. To address these challenges, the researchers developed an electrolyte with a fluorine-free lithium salt. They outlined their findings in a study published April 9 in the journal Science Advances . Hydrogel batteries use water-based electrolytes, which are nonflammable and less prone to leakage or explosions than are Li-ion batteries. The prototype stretchable Li-ion battery utilizes hydrogel as both electrolyte and separator. Because they are fluorine-free, they are also safer for the environment and less toxic to humans, the scientists said in the study. Enduring…