Electrolyte is a key component that transports charge-transfer ions during secondary battery operation. Depending on the type of salt and solvent, the operating voltage range and charging/discharging speed characteristics vary, and it also affects the lifespan of the secondary battery. Electrolytes are largely divided into liquid electrolytes and solid electrolytes. Liquid electrolyte uses a solution in which a salt containing charge transfer ions is dissolved, enabling rapid ion diffusion. Because the solid electrolyte uses a solid phase, it has excellent mechanical strength and high energy density and stability. As such, the electrolyte is a key component that greatly affects the performance of secondary batteries.
In line with the research flow of next-generation secondary battery system development, our Graduate School of Steel Energy and Materials is conducting advanced analysis of various secondary battery reactions according to electrolyte conditions, and research on electrolyte material exploration and optimization.