High Performance, Nonflammable IL Electrolyte

ABSTRACT: Physical Sciences Inc. proposes to develop a nonflammable ionic liquid based electrolyte for use in high performance secondary lithium ion cells. The electrolyte will be formed using a mixture of ILs and conventional battery solvents. Phase I testing will demonstrate the nonflammability of the composite electrolyte system as well as the electrochemical and thermal properties over the relevant DOD temperature range. Testing using state of the art electrodes will show that the IL based electrolyte can be used to achieve equivalent full cell performance as conventional carbonate electrolytes. The performance of cells will be characterized at low (-40°C) and high temperatures (up to 60°C). Pouch cell construction will demonstrate production of larger electrolyte volumes and lay the ground work for cylindrical cell builds by our commercial partners in Phase II. For the optimal electrolyte, a plan will be developed for producing the larger quantities necessary for Phase II and prototype demonstration. The Phase II prototype cell construction and testing efforts will highlight the ability to form safer, high performance cells with the developed electrolyte. BENEFIT: With the rapid proliferation of electronic technology, safe, reliable power storage technologies are necessary. A significant concern with current batteries is the energetic reaction of carbonate based electrolytes on cell failure. Development of the proposed electrolyte could lead to safer cells for all applications. In particular, manned DOD and space missions need these batteries to prevent damage to personnel and high value equipment. Long-term the technology could be used in cell phones, electric vehicle batteries, laptops and power tools.