A joint research team from Nankai University (Tianjin) and the Shanghai Institute of Space Power-Sources has developed a hydrofluorocarbon-based electrolyte for lithium-metal batteries, achieving up to 700 Wh/kg energy density at room temperature—more than double traditional electrolytes—and stable operation down to minus 70°C. Published in Nature on February 27, 2026, the breakthrough promises to double electric vehicle ranges to 1,000 km and has applications in aerospace.
Chinese scientists, led by Zhao Qing and Chen Jun from Nankai University and Li Yong from the Shanghai Institute of Space Power-Sources (linked to China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation), have created a new fluorinated hydrocarbon solvent-based electrolyte. By optimizing fluorine atom electronic density and solvent structure, it enables effective lithium salt dissolution, superior wettability, reduced electrolyte volume, and freer ion movement at low temperatures.
Lab tests show energy density reaching 700 Wh/kg at room temperature—two to three times higher than conventional batteries—and efficient performance at minus 70°C, surpassing the minus 50°C stability noted initially. The findings, published in Nature on February 27, 2026, offer a 'promising pathway to break the power and energy density ceiling of batteries.'
Li Yong told Science and Technology Daily on March 19 that this could boost EV ranges from 500-600 km to 1,000 km without increasing size or weight. Chen Jun highlighted applications in new energy vehicles, robotics, aviation, aerospace, and extreme cold environments.