High voltage and high energy density Li-ion batteries

Safe, non-toxic, high voltage and high energy density Li-ion batteries, along with good power density are needed in a variety of military, space and commercial applications. The specific power and energy density of Li-ion batteries can be enhanced by utilizing cathode materials that have higher cycling voltage and specific capacity. We have identified a cathode material composition that can deliver exceptionally high capacity and which avoids using the expensive and toxic cobalt as a constituent in the active material. The innovation in composition is combined with ultrafine particle size to maximize intrinsic and extrinsic Li-ion conductivity of the material, and stabilize the structure against the degradation by the electrolyte at high charge voltages. Working in collaboration with a University partner, first principles computational methods will be used as a pre-screening and explanatory tool for experimentation. Based on the computational results, cathode materials with specific compositions and ultrafine particle size will be produced. Electrochemical properties of cathode materials will be tested in both Li and Li-ion configurations, in partnership with a Li-ion battery manufacturer. In Phase II, prototype batteries will be fabricated and tested for performance, along with optimization and scaling of the synthesis process for producing cathode particles.