Nanomaterials enabled high power and fast charge rate Li-ion batteries

High power (> 500 W/kg) and fast charge rate (> 5C) Li-ion batteries that possess good energy density and can operate over a wide temperature range are needed in a variety of commercial, military and space applications, such as hybrid electric vehicles, power tools, satellites and launch vehicles. State-of-the-art rechargeable Li-ion batteries are incapable of fulfilling these stringent requirements. We propose to develop Li-ion batteries with fast rate capabilities, long cycle life and shelf life by utilizing nanostructured electrodes with novel structures. Working in collaboration with a leading developer of Li-ion batteries, in Phase I, we will demonstrate that it is possible to produce a stable high power and energy density nanostructured cathode by controlling the structure and composition of nanoparticles. As part of the Phase I work, the electrochemical properties of nanostructured cathodes will be evaluated in Li and Li-ion (made of a nanostructured anode) cells. In Phase II, prototype batteries will be fabricated and tested for performance, along with optimization and scaling of the synthesis process for producing electrode nanoparticles.