Sol-gel electrolytes in lithium batteries

This paper presents the results of the thermodynamic calculations of material compatibility along with the results of the experimental studies using lithium aluminosilicate gel electrolyte in lithium batteries. Initially, there were problems with gel monoliths and porous cathodes in the Li solid electrolyte batteries. Better results were obtained through the direct application of thin films of the lithium aluminosilicate gels to the surfaces of dense, sintered oxide cathodes. It was important to maintain extremely low moisture and oxygen levels in the dry glove box during the assembly and testing of the battery, especially when it came to achieving good contact between the sol-gel electrolyte and the lithium metal. Suggestions are given about procedures for further development of the sol-gel electrolyte batteries.