Three-dimensional micro-lattice battery structures with convective flow of electrolytes

摘要

A new battery structure as disclosed allows convective flow of electrolyte through three-dimensional structured electrodes. Hierarchical battery structure design enables three-dimensional metal structures with fluid transport capabilities. Some variations provide a lithium-ion battery system with convective electrolyte flow, comprising: a positive electrode comprising a lithium-containing electrode material and a conductive network with hollow liquid-transport conduits; a negative electrode comprising a lithium-containing electrode material in the conductive network; a separator that electronically isolates the positive and negative electrodes; and a liquid electrolyte contained within the hollow liquid-transport conduits of the conductive network. The hollow liquid-transport conduits serve as structural members, and the walls of these conduits serve as current collectors. The conductive networks may include a micro-lattice structure with a cellular material formed of hollow tubes. Performance and thermal management of lithium-ion batteries (and other types of batteries) can be improved.

主权项

1. A metal-ion battery system comprising:
a three-dimensional framework of conduits having electrically conductive walls; a first electrode region comprising a first portion of said conduits and a first active electrode material outside of said first portion of said conduits; a second electrode region comprising a second portion of said conduits and a second active electrode material outside of said second portion of said conduits; and an electrically insulating separator disposed between said first and second electrode regions, wherein said system contains a liquid electrolyte within said conduits.