Preparation of High Performance Nanocomposite Cathode Materials

73134S03-I The lithium /sulfur (Li/S) battery is one of the most promising power sources for many civilian and military applications, due to its extremely high energy density. However, the performance of current batteries (including power/energy density and cycle life) has fallen well below theoretical expectations, because sulfur electrode materials suffer from poor electrochemical stability and low electrical and ionic conductivity. This project will develop novel nanocomposite cathode materials (NCM) that will significantly improve the performance of Li/S batteries in terms of power/energy density and cycle life. The superior properties of the proposed NCMs will be achieved via formation of nano-composite phases that facilitate interfacial contacts and improve electrochemical stabilities. Phase I will prepare the novel S/V2O5 NCM electrodes via a modified sol-gel approach. The NCMs will be structurally characterized and the nanocomposite electrodes will be electrochemically evaluated. The use of the NCMs in S/Li batteries will be demonstrated. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Lithium-polymer batteries should have extensive applications in commercial products including electric vehicles, radios, telephones, televisions, video cameras, computers, tools, and other consumer products. Corresponding applications also exits in the Federal government in defense, spacecraft, and probes.