Cellulose Aluminium Polymer multi-ions composite Solid-electrolyte

ended

A low cost and efficient cellulose aluminium polymer multi-ions solid electrolyte (CAPSEL), with ionic conductivity in the range of 1-3 mS/cm, has been produced by a simple process which enables thin and large area battery production. An electrolyte with inherent potential towards Al based batteries and posterior commercialisation. CAPSEL may represent a good alternative to Li based batteries as Al is an abundant, cheaper and less reactive metal compared to Li. The formulation of CAPSEL can be easily adapted to other ions, such as Na and Li. Furthermore, a solid electrolyte can solve many of the safety risks existing in commercially available batteries, in addition to allowing a significant reduction in their size and weight. We expect this project to give an important contribution towards a new class of highly efficiency batteries whose disposal route offers no environmental impacts. This is only possible because of its biodegradable polymeric binder and cellulose as major constituents of the electrolyte. Therefore, CAPSEL can follow conventional recycling routes of paper after the batteries' end-life cycle. CAPSEL also enables the power supply of low-cost and large area disposable applications like e-paper, smart labels and smart packing. The Proof-of-Concept is a unique opportunity to focus on further exploitation of the developed solid electrolyte whilst at the same time concentrating efforts towards the compilation of a suitable product data sheet verified by an independent laboratory - a crucial step prior to engaging with potential investors/partners for either production or commercialisation.