Chonnam National University Researchers Advance Safety and Longevity of Sodium Metal Batteries

Researchers at Chonnam National University in South Korea have developed a new polymerizable deep eutectic solvent (PDES) electrolyte designed to improve the safety and durability of sodium-metal batteries (SMBs). The study, published in the August 2026 issue of *Energy Storage Materials*, addresses critical limitations in existing battery technology, such as high flammability, toxicity, and susceptibility to dendrite growth.

The Innovation: PDES Electrolyte

Traditional organic liquid electrolytes in SMBs present significant safety risks, including leakage and fire hazards. The research team, led by Professor Chan-Jin Park, created a PDES that combines non-flammability with improved structural stability through in-situ polymerization.

Key components of the electrolyte include:

• Sodium Perchlorate (NaClO₄): Acts as the primary sodium ion source.
• N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM): Facilitates ion dissociation and creates a robust polymer matrix.
• Succinonitrile (SN): Provides necessary plasticity to the mixture.

Technical Performance and Implications

The researchers reported that the PDES electrolyte exhibits an ionic conductivity of 1.39 mS cm⁻¹ at 30°C. Testing in full cells demonstrated a discharge capacity of 110.2 mAh g⁻¹ and 90.4% capacity retention after 1,000 cycles. Furthermore, the team demonstrated mechanical robustness by powering an LED even when a prototype pouch cell was folded or cut.

Professor Park suggests that this development could pave the way for more cost-effective, sustainable energy storage systems, including grid-level storage and backup power solutions. Interested parties can verify these findings by consulting the peer-reviewed article in *Energy Storage Materials* (DOI: 10.1016/j.ensm.2026.105430).