Stretchable Battery Underpinned by Supramolecular Chemistry

Summary

Wearable electronics require flexible, safe, and high-performance energy storage. Traditional Li-ion batteries, which are rigid and contain flammable liquid electrolytes, are not ideal for such applications. A research team led by Professors Zhenan Bao and Yi Cui developed a new type of solid-state polymer electrolyte, incorporating a supramolecular network with dynamic hydrogen bonding to decouple ionic conductivity and mechanical robustness. This innovation ensures both high stretchability and effective ion transport, resulting in durable, stretchable Li-ion batteries. The technology also serves as both an electrolyte and a binder, enabling strong electrode adhesion and stable performance under strain. This breakthrough is now being commercialized by Anthro Energy for wearable devices.

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