Context

• Scientists have developed a Lithium-ion battery that will not catch fire. Lithium-ion batteries are vulnerable to fire and explosion, which often happens without warning. This is because they are built with flammable and combustible materials. 
• Lithium-ion battery is type of rechargeable battery that contains several cells. Each cell consists of cathode, anode and electrolyte, separator between electrodes and current collectors. In it, lithium ions move from negative electrode to positive electrode during discharge and back when charging. Li-ion battery use intercalated lithium compound as one electrode material.

Details

• Li-ion batteries have emerged as the energy storage vehicle of choice for portable electronics, electric vehicles, and grid storage. These safety advancements mark a significant step forward in transforming the way Li-ion batteries are manufactured and used in electronic devices. 
• The team has announced the discovery of a new class of “water-in-salt” and “water-in-bisalt” electrolytes—referred to as WiS and WiBS, respectively. 

• This new class of electrolytes, when incorporated in a polymer matrix, reduces water activity and elevates the battery’s energy capabilities and life cycle while ridding it of the flammable, toxic, and highly reactive solvents present in current Li-ion batteries. It’s a safe, powerful alternative. 

Source: Indian Express