TIANJIN, China: Chinese researchers have developed a new type of organic lithium-ion battery that is safer, more flexible, and capable of operating in extreme environments, a breakthrough that could reshape energy storage technology.
The findings were published on Thursday in the international journal Nature.
The project was led by Professor Xu Yunhua of Tianjin University in collaboration with the South China University of Technology.
The team engineered a novel organic cathode material that offers high electronic conductivity, fast lithium-ion transport, and substantial energy storage capacity.
Most conventional lithium-ion batteries use inorganic cathode materials such as cobalt and nickel.
These materials face challenges including resource scarcity, rigidity, and reduced performance in extreme temperatures.
The new organic cathode addresses these limitations while remaining environmentally friendly.
Using the new material, the team created a pouch battery that achieved an energy density exceeding 250 watt-hours per kilogram, surpassing standard lithium iron phosphate batteries.
Safety and durability
The battery demonstrated remarkable stability under extreme conditions, operating reliably in temperatures ranging from minus 70 to 80 degrees Celsius.
Mechanical tests showed the battery maintained structural integrity and full capacity after bending or compression.
It also passed puncture safety tests, which evaluate the risk of thermal runaway or fire in lithium batteries.
“The research breaks through the constraints of traditional battery technology in terms of resource dependence and environmental impact,” Xu said.
“It matches the energy density of commercial batteries while offering superior safety and a much wider operational temperature range.”
Applications in flexible electronics and wearables
Professor Xu highlighted the potential for the new technology in flexible electronics, wearable devices, and energy storage systems that require lightweight, adaptable, and safe power sources.
The research team is working to scale up production and plans to establish a pilot manufacturing line to prepare for industrial applications.
The development of organic lithium-ion batteries represents a growing focus on alternatives to conventional materials.
By using abundant and structurally adaptable organic compounds, scientists aim to overcome long-standing performance bottlenecks while reducing environmental impact.
