Oxygen Batteries Based on a Solid Polymer Electrolyte

Scientists have developed a derivative of the lithium-ion cell that could prove useful in spaceflight and commercial applications in which it is planned to use oxygen batteries based on solid polymer electrolytes. This derivative cell, which contains a solid polymer electrolyte and an oxygen gas cathode, is designed for and operates best in an oxygen-rich atmosphere. (Inasmuch as the derivative cell as designed cannot store oxygen, the gas must be obtained from the environment.) Because the demand for portable electronic devices for scientific, educational, and even entertainment uses is constantly increasing, the need for rechargeable batteries as alternative means to power these devices is also increasing. Batteries based on the present derivative cell could be one such alternative means.