Solvent-Free Asymmetric Capacitors for Automotive Applications

The lower energy density of electrochemical capacitors (ECs) compared with that of batteries has been a serious drawback in terms of their use for electric and hybrid vehicle technology and several other applications. Therefore, the fabrication of high energy and power density ECs in a wide temperature range is critical for their successful implementation in the automotive market. Fractal Systems Inc. proposes to develop commercially viable asymmetric ECs using modified intercalated oxides as cathode materials and an activated carbon anode in an ionic liquid electrolyte with specific energy and power that will surpass those of existing activated carbon ECs. The proposed program is a natural extension to the capacitor related efforts conducted by the principal investigator. We will fabricate and characterize the materials to ensure that the desired properties needed for the proposed capacitors are obtained. One-cell capacitor assembly and characterization will be performed to validate our approach. Material/process optimization and scale up will take place in Phase II where we will produce capacitors for testing by our industrial partners, who will also build prototypes for commercialization of the technology.