A Structural Battery and its Multifunctional Performance

Engineering materials that can store electrical energy in structural load paths can revolutionize lightweight design across transport modes. Stiff and strong batteries that use solid-state electrolytes and resilient electrodes and separators are generally lacking. Herein, a structural battery composite with unprecedented multifunctional performance is demonstrated, featuring an energy density of 24Whkg(-1) and an elastic modulus of 25GPa and tensile strength exceeding 300MPa. The structural battery is made from multifunctional constituents, where reinforcing carbon fibers (CFs) act as electrode and current collector. A structural electrolyte is used for load transfer and ion transport and a glass fiber fabric separates the CF electrode from an aluminum foil-supported lithium-iron-phosphate positive electrode. Equipped with these materials, lighter electrical cars, aircraft, and consumer goods can be pursued.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates a structural battery composite with unprecedented multifunctional performance, which can play a significant role in lightweight design. The structural battery is made from multifunctional constituents, including reinforcing carbon fibers, structural electrolyte, and glass fiber fabric.