Stabilized Lithium Manganese Oxide Spinel Cathode for High Power Li-Ion Batteries

70892 LiMn2O4 is one of the most promising cathode materials for high-power Li-ion batteries because of its cost, safety and environmental advantages over other materials. However, its lack of stability in Li-ion cells at high temperatures is well known and has limited its commercial use. This project will develop a novel, low cost concept for stabilizing LiMn2O4. The concept will be implemented in a treatment process for potential scale up and use in a safe, low cost, high-power Li-ion battery system for multiple applications, including electric and hybrid electric vehicles. In Phase I, the stabilizing treatment will be optimized, and the materials will be characterized in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment concept. The new materials will be tested against baseline materials to evaluate improved calendar and cycle life in full Li-ion cells (>0.2Ah). A cost/benefit analysis will be conducted to show the process is economically practical. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A stabilized LiMn2O4 spinel cathode material in a Li-ion battery system would solve several problems (including cost, safety, and calendar life) that currently limit the use of Li-ion batteries in applications requiring large and/or high power energy sources. In addition to the automotive industry, potential applications include the telecommunications market with the increasing demand for uninterruptible power sources, base stations, and satellite technology; and the military with respect to the development of HEV¿s, portable power for the modern soldier, and pulse power for advanced weapons.