| abstract |
A process for producing a separator-electrolyte layer for use in a lithium battery, comprising: (a) providing a porous separator; (b) providing a quasi-solid electrolyte containing a lithium salt dissolved in a first liquid solvent up to a first concentration no less than 3 M; and (c) coating or impregnating the separator with the electrolyte to obtain the separator-electrolyte layer with a final concentration≧the first concentration so that the electrolyte exhibits a vapor pressure less than 0.01 kPa when measured at 20° C., a vapor pressure less than 60% of that of the first liquid solvent alone, a flash point at least 20 degrees Celsius higher than a flash point of the first liquid solvent alone, a flash point higher than 150° C., or no detectable flash point. A battery using such a separator-electrolyte is non-flammable and safe, has a long cycle life, high capacity, and high energy density. |