High Rate Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Batteries Using Nano-Composite Electrode Materials

This DOD Air Force Phase I SBIR proposal focuses on developing and demonstrating a nanomaterials-based high rate rechargeable battery technology that provides performance, weight and safety advantages for space-based military applications. Specifically, the proposed Li-ion rechargeable battery system is expected to offer a next generation high power energy storage device capable of storing and delivering energy at charge/discharge rates up to 60C (charge/discharge time: 1 minutes). This is a significant improvement over state-of-the-art commercial rechargeable batteries with the maximum discharge rate of 2C (discharge time: 0.5 hour). Both anode and cathode materials are specially designed nano-composites that have high energy storage capacity, high electronic conductivity, fast lithium diffusivity, and are compatible with high performance electrolytes. The proposed research will be built on T/J Technologies' innovative electrode materials and extensive system-level development for high rate Li-ion rechargeable batteries. In Phase I, we will demonstrate that the proposed Li-ion rechargeable battery system has a superior high rate performance over commercial Li-ion rechargeable batteries. In Phase II, we will optimize the proposed battery system and work with the Advanced Battery Technology group of Boeing Phantom Works to further develop Li-ion prototype batteries for space and commercial applications.