Abstract

We are focusing on plastic crystals as a novel solid electrolyte. Plastic crystals are composed of regularly arranged crystal lattices, and are defined as substances with orientational and rotational disorder at the molecular level. As a result of their disorder, they are able to move significantly and are characterized by high plasticity and high diffusivity of the component molecules. The plastic crystals, we developed showed high ionic conductivity values which are almost the same with those of liquid electrolytes. This makes it possible to evaluate the charge and discharge of the battery. We expect that the potential of this material is high, and by further enhancing lithium ion conductivity, we can accelerate the development of all-solid-state lithium ion batteries.

Specific examples

Lithium-ion batteries

Future prospects

It can be expected to be applied not only to lithium-ion secondary batteries but also to solid electrolytes for electric double layer capacitors and various storage batteries.

Research facilities and equipments

UV-vis spectroscopy, GPC:Gel Permeation Chromatography, Raman spectroscopy, DSC:Differential Scanning Calorimetry、TG-DTA:Differential Thermal Analysis-Thermo Gravimetric, impedance analyzer, potentio/galvanostat, AFM:Atomic Force Microscope, charge/discharge test

Collaboration with external organizations

1. Development of highly conductive plastic crystals
2. Development of high-performance lithium-ion batteries
3. Development of high-performance capacitors
4. Development of various rechargeable batteries

Related patents/papers

S. Yamaguchi, H. Yamada, Y. Takeoka, M. Rikukawa, M. Yoshizawa-Fujita*, “Synthesis of pyrrolidinium-based plastic crystals exhibiting high ionic conductivity at ambient temperature”, New J. Chem., 43, 4008-4012 (2019). (Selected as Cover Picture)