Page 51 - Plastics News Issue December 2024
P. 51
TECHNOLOGY NEWS
Multifunctional Structural Battery Combines
Energy Storage and Load-bearing Capacity
The researchers focused on optimizing the cur-
ing process of epoxy resin combined with ionic
liquid and carbonate electrolyte-based solid-
polymer electrolytes. By carefully controlling
temperature and pressure during curing, they
achieved a high-density structural battery that
maintains strong mechanical properties while
enhancing energy storage capabilities.
The multifunctional structural battery is de-
signed to be safe from fire risks and is capable
of supporting substantial loads. Its potential ap-
plications span various sectors, including:
Serving as internal components that can extend
AIST researchers have developed a operating time with a single charge. Providing
groundbreaking multifunctional structural lightweight energy solutions without compromis-
Kbattery that combines energy storage ca- ing structural integrity. Enhancing the efficiency
pabilities with load-bearing capacity, marking a and performance of robotic systems through in-
significant advancement in battery technology. tegrated energy storage.
This innovation is particularly relevant for indus-
tries such as automotive, mobility, and aero- Professor Kim highlighted that this technology
space, where high energy density and structural represents a foundational step towards next-
integrity are essential. generation multifunctional energy solutions, em-
phasizing the importance of integrating material
The new battery utilizes a carbon-fiber-compos- science with structural design.
ite design, allowing it to function simultaneously
as both an energy storage unit and a structural The development of this multifunctional struc-
component. This dual functionality addresses tural battery by KAIST signifies a pivotal moment
the limitations of traditional structural batteries, in energy storage technology, paving the way
which often struggled to integrate mechanical for innovative applications across multiple indus-
and electrochemical properties effectively. tries. By addressing the challenges of traditional
batteries and enhanc-
The KAIST team, led by Professor Seong Su ing their functionality,
Kim, employed advanced manufacturing tech- KAIST's research could
niques like vacuum compression molding to in- lead to more efficient
crease the volume fraction of carbon fibers by and sustainable energy
over 160% compared to previous designs. This solutions in the future.
enhancement significantly improves the contact
area between electrodes and electrolytes, lead- Source:- Plastic Today
ing to better electrochemical performance.
December 2024 PLASTICS NEWS 51
