Researchers from Nankai University and the Shanghai Institute of Space Power Sources have developed a revolutionary hydrofluorocarbon-based electrolyte that enables lithium-metal batteries to maintain high performance even in extreme cold conditions. Published in the journal Nature, the study doubles the capacity of current commercial batteries, reaching an energy density of 707 Wh/kg. This new technology, which remains functional even at temperatures as low as -70°C, aims to fundamentally solve energy storage challenges in demanding fields such as aviation, deep space exploration, and polar research. It also opens a new era for electric vehicles operating in extreme climates.
The research, which has drawn significant attention from the scientific community, focuses on monofluorinated alkane solvents that could replace conventional carbonate-based electrolytes. Led by Jun Chen, Qing Zhao, and Yong Li, the team achieved unprecedented lithium salt solubility using 1,3-difluoropropane (DFP). The newly developed electrolyte offers low viscosity and high oxidative stability, improving both durability and efficiency of the batteries. Even at -70°C, the system maintains ionic conductivity, pushing the physical limits of lithium-metal cells.
One of the most remarkable features of the system is its ability to break the traditional trade-off between high energy density and low-temperature performance. Lithium-metal cells reach a record 707 Wh/kg at room temperature, while still retaining around 400 Wh/kg at -50°C. Thanks to weak lithium-fluorine coordination, fast charge transfer is possible even in freezing conditions, and the superior wetting properties of the solvent significantly reduce the required electrolyte volume.
Tests show that lithium plating and stripping efficiency reaches 99.7% at room temperature and only slightly drops to 98% even at -70°C. This technological leap is especially critical for applications where lightweight design and thermal resilience are essential, such as drones, robotic systems, and deep space missions. Next-generation lithium-metal batteries are expected to enhance energy reliability in the harshest environments, from polar regions to the depths of space, paving the way for more sustainable technological progress.
Source: Solarbaba – In Turkish
