Reversibly thermo-responsive materials applied in lithium batteries

Thermo-responsive materials are smart materials that are capable of reacting to a local temperature variation, with high stimuli-sensitivity and/or facile reversibility. In recent years, reversibly thermo-responsive materials have been widely explored and integrated with lithium batteries because they can autonomously detect and reversibly respond to thermal faults in the battery. Therefore, we search and summarize research on the application of reversibly thermo-responsive materials for the development of new functional lithium battery with high thermal safety and durability. Firstly, we begin our analysis by reviewing four types of different thermoresponsive materials (e.g., sol-gel transition polymers, phase change materials, temperature-stimulus shape memory materials and positive temperature coefficient thermosensitive materials). Secondly, we summarize how the material couples with lithium battery components (i.e., electrolyte, separator, electrodes) and is applied in external management of batteries to improve the safety and electrochemical performance of the battery. Lastly, we propose the ideas for new applications and future development direction of thermo-responsive materials in the field of lithium batteries. Hoping such a review could provide inspiration for future research and development of intelligent thermal shutdown batteries with high safety and performance.

Automated summary

This article summarizes the application of reversibly thermo-responsive materials in lithium batteries, which can autonomously detect and respond to thermal faults in the battery, improving its thermal safety and durability. Firstly, the authors review four types of different thermoresponsive materials, including sol-gel transition polymers, phase change materials, temperature-stimulus shape memory materials, and positive temperature coefficient thermosensitive materials. Secondly, they summarize how these materials couple with lithium battery components and are applied in external management of batteries to enhance safety and electrochemical performance. Finally, they propose ideas for new applications and future development of thermo-responsive materials in the field of lithium batteries.