High Capacity and High Voltage Composite Oxide Cathode for Li-ion Batteries

NEI Corporation and University of Florida propose to develop a mixed metal oxide cathode that is a composite of two and three dimensional structures. At the atomic level, the crystal structure is expected to be both open (for fast Li-ion intercalation/diffusion) and stable (for good reversibility). The cathode materials developed in this program are expected to have high capacity and high rate capability, as well as long cycle life. Additionally, the crystal structure of the proposed material is expected to be stable over a wide temperature range upon Li-ion deintercalation, without oxygen evolution. This will allow the Li-ion cells to operate at high energy and power levels without compromising on safety. The target specific capacity of the proposed cathode is >200 mAh/g with a nominal working voltage of 4.8V, which gives out >960 Wh/kg specific energy. A unique feature of the proposed program is that it integrates theoretical and experimental work to enable a new generation of high capacity and high voltage cathode materials: the composition range and structure will be determined utilizing first principles calculation techniques developed by our STTR partner at University of Florida, and NEI Corp. will produce the cathode materials using its scalable and low cost process. The structure, composition, particle morphology and electrochemical performance will then be determined. The objective of the Phase I STTR program is to demonstrate the feasibility of a new high capacity and high voltage cathode material for rechargeable Li-ion batteries. In Phase II, the composition and morphology of the powders will be optimized, and integrated into large format prototype Li-ion batteries by working in partnership with a battery manufacturer(s). The objective will be to design and fabricate battery packs that meet the functional performance requirements set by NASA.