Lithium ion batteries contain a highly flammable electrolyte solution that allows ions to move from anode to cathode and back through a separator. However, if there is an internal short circuit, heat can build up, and the battery can potentially burst into flame.
Stanford researchers have developed a new separator made of polymer that contains triphenyl phosphate (TPP), which is flame retardant. If temperatures reach 150°C, the polymer shell melts, releasing the TPP to prevent combustion.
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