Flexible micro-batteries developed for smart wearable electronics

BEIJING - Chinese scientists have developed flexible micro-batteries with high energy density and steady performance under extraordinary high-temperature, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) announced Thursday.

A research group at CAS Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics reported the development of a prototype of all-solid-state planar lithium ion micro-batteries (LIMBs).

The rapid boom in smart wearable and integrated electronic devices has stimulated the demand for advanced intelligent energy storage systems with high performance, micro size, mechanical flexibility, and high-temperature stability.

The micro-batteries have long-term stability without capacity loss after 3,300 charge cycles at room temperature and maintain high flexibility without capacity decay under repeated bending.

They also have remarkable high-temperature performance of up to 1,000 charge cycles at 100 degrees Celsius.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are currently the most popular type of batteries but have shortcomings due to their large size, bulky volume, and heavy weight. They also suffer from several inherent limitations such as liquid electrolyte leakage, flammability, and unsatisfactory safety and flexibility.

LIMBs are currently regarded as a highly competitive candidate for on-chip energy storage due to their lightweight and high energy density.