Challenges for Safe Electrolytes Applied in Lithium-Ion Cells—A Review

Abstract

The aspect of safety in electronic devices has turned out to be a huge challenge for the world of science. Thus far, satisfactory power and energy densities, efficiency, and cell capacities have been achieved. Unfortunately, the explosiveness and thermal runaway of the cells prevents them from being used in demanding applications such as electric cars at higher temperatures. The main aim of this review is to highlight different electrolytes used in lithium-ion cells as well as the flammability aspect. In the paper, the authors present liquid inorganic electrolytes, composite polymer–ceramic electrolytes, ionic liquids (IL), polymeric ionic liquids, polymer electrolytes (solvent-free polymer electrolytes (SPEs), gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs), and composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs)), and different flame retardants used to prevent the thermal runaway and combustion of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Additionally, various flame tests used for electrolytes in LIBs have been adopted. Aside from a detailed description of the electrolytes consumed in LIBs. Last section in this work discusses hydrogen as a source of fuel cell operation and its practical application as a global trend that supports green chemistry.