Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely used in Europe across consumer electronics, electric vehicles and energy storage power stations due to high energy-density, relatively long lifespan, and low self-discharge rates. However, the fire risk of the LIBs is high, and the lifetime is seriously attenuated under abuse conditions. Therefore, the overarching aim of this ambitious yet achievable project (GENE4LIB) is to develop next generation safe and long-lasting LIBs through designing high performance ionic liquids (ILs) based flame-retardant electrolyte (ILFRE). The new ideas in GENE4LIB to achieve this goal include: i) Developing gene editing-like ILFRE which can increase the lifetime of LIBs and decrease fire hazard of LIBs; ii) Clarifying the effect of composition and structure of gene editing-like ILFRE on GENE4LIB electrolyte performances, electrochemical properties and fire safety performances of LIBs; iii) Gaining in-depth understanding of underlying mechanism of gene editing-like ILFRE in extending the lifespan and inhibiting fire of LIBs.

ILs can provide flame retardancy through both gas-phase and solid-phase mechanisms. In the gas phase, ILs release free radicals generated by flame-retardant elements (such as P, N, and B), which capture active free radicals during combustion, thereby interrupting the chain reaction of combustion. In the solid phase, ILs promote the formation of a stable carbon layer on polymers, providing thermal insulation and oxygen barrier properties, thereby inhibiting combustion. Moreover, ILs functional groups will influence free solvents of first solvated sheath to form weak solvation, reducing desolvation energy. It is crucial for enhancing battery performance, particularly at low temperatures and high rates owing to improved ionic conductivity, reduced polarization, and promoted faster ion transport. The successful implementation of GENE4LIB will contribute to the priorities of the Batteries Europe and European BATTERY 2030.