Jenax, inventor of ultra-flexible, thin lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, today announced a breakthrough in battery safety with non-flammable liquid electrolytes.

The technology can solve the problem of batteries that catch fire or explode in extremely hot temperatures or when short circuited. With this technology incorporated into its battery cells, the company can increase the safety of wearables and other products that come in close contact with people, including those in electric vehicles, while ensuring high battery performance. 

EJ Shin, director of Jenax, said: “Liquid is the best conductor for ionic movement, which means it delivers the best battery performance. But because liquid can also be a tremendous fire hazard, many manufacturers try to use solid state electrolyte instead. They sacrifice efficiency and -- in the case of wearables -- comfort and usability, for safety.

“Jenax has always been focused on delivering the greatest combination of safety and performance. With this non-flammable electrolyte, we’re taking both to the next level, providing the peace of mind manufacturers and consumers need with the high performance they deserve.”

Jenax pioneered ultra-flexible, gel polymer batteries that can bend in many directions and won’t leak or harm people if cut or punctured. This aims to eliminate the problems that traditional solid, rigid batteries pose for connected product designers, while delivering strong battery performance. Once the non-flammable liquid electrolyte is incorporated into Jenax batteries, the company will offer hardware designers and manufacturers the ability to use liquid- and/or gel polymer-based batteries. 

Jenax will feature at CES 2020 in January where they will be hosting a “Truly Flexible Power” Snack & Demos, showing its J.Flex gel-polymer batteries in medical and sports applications, and the non-flammable liquid electrolyte can be seen.