In Australia, a team of researchers at UNSW in Sydney claims to have successfully 3D printed solid-state polymer electrolytes in custom shapes from a desktop 3D printer. This would allow for energy storage in small electronic or medical devices, or for aerospace applications, among other things. The resulting electrolyte is expected to have very good conductivity and strength.
First of all, let’s remember that an electrolyte is a substance, liquid or solid, which is able to carry an electric charge, either positive or negative. This is a result of the displacement of ions. For example, a polymer electrolyte – as used in this study – represents a matrix of organic polymers in which moving ions are observed. They are widely used in lithium batteries, especially to improve their density and safety. By being able to 3D print them, the UNSW researchers would be able to imagine…
3D Printed Electrolytes Allow for Better Energy Storage
