The Integration and Optimization of Novel Ion Conducting Solids (IONICS) program seeks to enable transformational electrochemical cells by creating components built with solid ion conductors that have a wide range of desirable properties including low ionic area-specific resistance (ASR), high chemical and electrochemical stability, high selectivity, good mechanical properties, etc. through innovative approaches to overcome tradeoffs among coupled properties. It also seeks to develop and apply methods for processing of solid ion conductors and their integration into electrochemical devices. Components built with solid ion conductors, especially separators, have the potential to serve as enabling platforms, as demonstrated by the wide application of Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ) ceramics and perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) polymers (e.g., Nafion®). The IONICS Program Categories focus on specific electrochemical cells with high impact for the energy sector whose commercial potential will be significantly enhanced with improved components built from solid ion conductors.
The Program Categories include:
1. Lithium (Li) ion conductors that enable the cycling of Li metal without shorting
2. Selective and low-cost separators for batteries with liquid reactants (e.g., flow batteries)
3. Alkaline conductors with high chemical stability and conductivity
4. Other approaches that could achieve the IONICS Program Objectives