Development of Advanced Battery Manufacturing Techniques

Physical Sciences Inc. together with EaglePicher Technologies will demonstrate that PSIs proprietary coating techniques can be employed to reduce the cost of producing lithium ion cells while improving the energy density and safety. Testing will clearly demonstrate the ability to increase the active material content and electrode density, provide in-situ short circuit protection, and reduce both the solvent required during electrode production and the electrolyte in each cell. The result will be a safer, more energy dense cell that costs less to produce. During Phase I, the team will demonstrate a 50% reduction in the amount of solvent required to produce the cathode electrode. Increased abuse tolerance will be highlighted by demonstrating a 50% reduction in the short-circuit current and a reduction in the required amount of electrolyte in a given cell. Coin and pouch cell testing will highlight the ability to achieve the targeted rate performance while achieving increased energy densities. The testing during the base and option efforts will clearly show the ability to use the PSI coated materials to produce a cheaper, safer, more energy dense cell for DLA applications. Phase II will focus on building this cell and qualifying its performance and the manufacturing cost gains.