Survey on the current status of plastic applications in energy storage batteries

Are polymers omnipresent in modern day commercial batteries?

In summary, polymers are omnipresent in modern day commercial batteries and in battery research activities. One important component of batteries is the separator. While porous separators have been commercially available for a long time, gel–polymer electrolytes and solid polymer electrolytes are emerging areas for lithium-ion battery technology.

What is electrochemical energy storage?

Electrochemical energy storage is the fastest-growing energy storage method in recent years, with advantages such as stable output and no geographical limitations. It mainly includes lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, flow batteries, etc.

How much will electrochemical energy storage cost in 2025?

According to the prediction results of GTM and BNEF, by 2025, the cost of electrochemical energy storage (especially Li-ion batteries and lead batteries) will drop to $110/kWh. The substantial reduction in the cost of ESS will greatly increase the global installed capacity .

Why do we need a large-scale development of electrochemical energy storage?

Additionally, with the large-scale development of electrochemical energy storage, all economies should prioritize the development of technologies such as recycling of end-of-life batteries, similar to Europe. Improper handling of almost all types of batteries can pose threats to the environment and public health .

What is the resurgence of battery technology?

However, there is now a significant resurgence in interest due to the emergence of new battery technologies such as paper batteries, flexible batteries, metal–polymer, polymer–air, or organic redox flow cells where redox polymers play an active pivotal role. (9)

Are polymers the future of batteries?

Future Directions Today the race is open worldwide to develop next-generation batteries that improve the performance of current batteries. Polymers will play an important role in this race in particular to overcome issues such as raw materials availability, safety, low weight, printability, and flexibility.