Nanomaterials-Based Electrodes for Fast Discharge and Charge Rate Energy Storage Devices

70640S02-II Advanced electrochemical devices with high power density and fast charge rate capability (less than 10 minutes) are needed for hybrid electric vehicles. Existing electrode materials and battery configurations are not capable of providing the necessary performance at low cost. This project will develop a new class of nanostructured tungsten oxide anodes with high electrical conductivity, and implement one of these anodes in an asymmetric hybrid energy storage device. This device, which also will include a carbon cathode and a non-aqueous electrolyte, will have high rate capabilities with a discharge time as small as 3 minutes, and a charge time as small as 6 minutes for a long cycle life (> 1000). In Phase I, nanostructured anode materials, with a structure and morphology that are ideally suited for obtaining high performance electrode tapes, were synthesized using the cheapest available chemical precursor. It was shown that the electrochemical properties can be greatly enhanced by reducing the crystallite size of anode materials. Phase II will fabricate prototype cells consisting of anodes made of nanocomposite powders with an optimized structure and composition. The prototype cells will be assembled in 18-39 V modules to evaluate their performance in a battery configuration. Processing methods will be developed for producing large anode tapes with the nanocomposite powders. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Asymmetric hybrid energy storage devices utilizing nanostructured tungsten oxide anodes should satisfy the emerging needs of propulsion systems for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), where both fast discharge and charge rates are desired. These batteries also should be well suited for other commercial applications, such as power tools and uninterrupted power supplies.