Utilizing Highly Concentrated Asymmetric Salts to Enhance Lithium-ion Battery Performance at Elevated Voltages.

Lithium-ion batteries have emerged as one of the most dominating technologies of the 21^st century due to their potential for long-term energy storage, high theoretical capacity, and reliable cyclability. However, recent studies have shown that surface interactions between dilute, industry-standard electrolyte and cellular components have caused various forms of degradation such as unintended side-reactions, dendrite growth, poor solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers, and more. This research conducted at The Ohio State University utilized highly concentrated electrolytes to combat cellular degradation and enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries at elevated voltages to increase the power output and energy density that is needed for electric vehicles, handheld devices, and more. The findings discussed herein provide insight into the development of novel materials for high-performing lithium-ion batteries and contribute to the future of sustainable energy conversion systems and lessens our reliance on non-renewable sources and costly recycling processes.