The Need

Next-generation lithium- and metal-based batteries require higher energy density, which depends on operating at elevated voltages. However, conventional electrolyte salts suffer from limited electrochemical stability, low solubility, and degradation issues such as aluminum current collector corrosion at high voltages. These limitations constrain performance, safety, and lifetime. There is a critical need for electrolyte systems that maintain stability under extreme conditions while enabling high salt concentrations, improved conductivity, and compatibility with advanced battery chemistries.

The Technology

OSU researchers have developed a class of asymmetric sulfonamide-based electrolyte salts engineered for high solubility and tunable performance in non-aqueous battery systems. By leveraging asymmetric anion design and a modular synthesis approach, the salts enable formation of highly concentrated electrolytes with enhanced electrochemical stability. The platform allows structural customization using widely available precursors, enabling optimization for conductivity, stability, and electrode compatibility across different battery chemistries without disclosing proprietary formulation details.

Commercial Applications

• High-voltage lithium-ion batteries (≥5 V cathodes)
• Next-generation metal-air batteries (Li-air, K-air)
• Grid-scale and stationary energy storage systems
• Advanced electrolytes for high-performance consumer electronics and electric vehicles

Benefits/Advantages

• Enhanced electrochemical stability: Supports operation at elevated voltages with reduced decomposition
• High solubility and concentration capability: Enables “solvent-in-salt” regimes for improved performance
• Reduced aluminum corrosion: Improved compatibility with current collectors under oxidative conditions
• Design flexibility: Modular synthesis allows tuning for specific battery chemistries and performance targets