High Power 3D Batteries for Autonomous Sensor Networks

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) has successfully demonstrated the fabrication and operation of a novel rechargeable lithium ion battery technology well suited for application in microscale devices requiring high power and energy. The performance of proven, safe lithium ion battery materials was enhanced through assembly in a three dimensional (3D) electrode architecture. Current status 3D batteries are capable of >250 mWh/g and >1000 mW/g. The structure is a nanoscale, co-continuous anode/electrolyte/cathode assembly that allows for nanometer scale lithium ion diffusion distances in concert with an effective use of volume. The result is rechargeable lithium ion batteries that show specific energy comparable to conventional lithium ion batteries with specific power capability that is an order of magnitude better. In this effort we propose to further improve the performance of 3D batteries yielding a battery system capable of 200 mWh/g and >8000 mW/g. In addition, a prototype 3D battery capable of enabling long distance RF communication will be developed and demonstrated in a commercial, microscale, autonomous sensor platform.