Innovative Methods or Materials for Passivation of Lithium Metal

In collaboration with our subcontractor we will develop new lithium ion conductors based on modifications to the structure of an existing conductor. This material has been shown to have a very high lithium ion conductivity. Furthermore, the lithium ion conductivity is not subject to decreased ionic conductivity at low temperature as observed in other lithium ion conductors. However, the material is also known to act as an electronic conductor. This electronic conductivity prevents its use as a solid-state electrolyte in next generation lithium batteries. Thus, the targeted modifications will aim to disrupt the electronic conductivity while maintaining high ionic conductivity. The lithium-oxygen electrochemical couple has the potential to form the basis of a very high specific energy, rechargeable battery. This work will investigate the use of derivatives of the material to improve the cycle life, reliability, and safety of the lithium-oxygen battery. In addition to improving the performance characteristics of the lithium-oxygen battery, a larger prototype cell to demonstrate the scalability of the technology will be built. BENEFIT: A rechargeable, high specific energy battery with potential applications in aircraft, UAVs, onboard missile power, hybrid vehicles, portable electronics and tools, and medical applications. Improved reliability and safety of the lithium battery. Development work with solid-state electrolytes may be extended to improve safety of other rechargeable, lithium metal based batteries.