Japan Researchers Study Potential Of Potassium-Ion Batteries

A research team from the Tokyo University of Science- (TUS), Japan, has recently conducted a study to gain insights into Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs), an alternative to conventional Lithium-ion batteries. The results of the study was recently published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition. Lithium-ion batteries have gained major traction with the increased deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) across the globe. 

However, the scarcity of Lithium, a critical mineral, often creates hurdles in the supply chain. Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are a prominent example; these batteries are made from abundantly available materials and are much safer than LIBs. Moreover, KIBs can utilize a water-in-salt electrolyte (WISE), which makes them more stable thermally and chemically.

The team studied how to boost the solid-electrolyte interphases (SEI) formation and their properties in WISE-based Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs). Their findings were published online in the journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition recently. The study, led by TUS Professor Shinichi Komaba, is co-authored by Junior Associate Professor Ryoichi Tatara, Dr. Zachary T. Gossage, and Ms. Nanako Ito, all from TUS.

The researchers mainly employed two advanced analytical techniques—scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and operando electrochemical mass spectrometry (OEMS)—to observe how SEI forms and reacts in real-time during the operation of a KIB

The experiments revealed that SEI forms a passivating layer in WISE akin to that seen in LIBs, with slow apparent electron transfer rates, helping suppress hydrogen evolution. It can ensure stable performance and higher durability of KIBs. However, the researchers observed that the coverage of the SEI layer was incomplete at higher operating voltages, leading to hydrogen evolution. 

Taken together, the results reveal the need to explore potential avenues to enhance SEI formation in future aqueous batteries. “While our results reveal interesting details on the properties and stability of SEI found in one particular WISE, we should also focus on reinforcing the SEI network to achieve improved functionality,” comments Prof. Komaba. “SEI could perhaps be improved by the development of other electrolytes that produce unique SEIs, but also through the incorporation of electrolyte additives or electrode surface pretreatment.” 

This study also highlights the power of SECM and OEMS for gaining a solid understanding of electrode–electrolyte interactions in next-generation batteries. “These techniques provide a powerful means for tracking the development, coverage, ion transfer, and stability of SEI and can easily be adapted for a variety of electrolytes and electrodes,” explains Prof. Komaba. “We hope this work encourages other researchers to further explore SECM and OEMS as advanced characterization methods that can be incorporated with traditional battery measurements to gain deeper insights.”  

Developing aqueous batteries such as KIBs will be instrumental for sustainable societies in the future since they could replace the expensive and hazardous LIBs currently used in electric vehicles, smart grids, renewable energy systems, and marine applications. By making energy storage more accessible, aqueous batteries will aid the transition toward carbon-neutral energy generation, paving the way for a greener future.