Phosphate Stabilized Cathode Fibers for High Energy and Power Storage Systems

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes the development of mixed metal oxide cathode fibers stabilized with a lithium metal phosphate coating. In Phase I the reduced diameters of the cathode fibers will be shown to result in improved Li+ diffusion and therefore enhanced rate capability at all temperatures. This enhanced cathode fiber rate capability will allow for the design of cells that can simultaneously deliver high energy and power. Application of a metal phosphate coating will be demonstrated to stabilize the cathode\electrolyte interface enabling repeatable cycling of the cathode fibers. Construction of 100mAh pouch cell will demonstrate intermediate cell scale-up while providing invaluable information for the design of a 28V energy storage system. In the proposed option effort, fiber production scale-up will be carried out following additional optimization of the cathode fiber rate and cycling performance. Larger pouch cells would be constructed in advance of further fiber production scale-up and the construction of cylindrical cells by an industrial partner in Phase II. These cells will be utilized in the construction of a deliverable 28V energy storage system prototype at the conclusion of Phase II.