Lithium Manganese Oxides as Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Lithium Ion Batteries

Two years ago, Sony Corporation stunned the rechargeable battery industry with a commercial "lithium-ion" battery comprised of a carbonaceous anode and an expensive LiCoO2 cathode. While suitable for high end consumer electronics, LiCoO2 will not be economical for high capacity "dual-use" technologies, such as electric vehicles and load-leveling. Although other non-U.S. companies are developing similar LiNiO2 technology, nickel compounds are both costly and known carcinogens. Accordingly, inexpensive, non-toxic lithium manganese oxides (LiMn2Ox) will be perapred and tested as cathode materials in model rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. LiMn2O4 will be synthesized with transition metal dopants, thus stabilizing the crystal lattice, extending cathode cycle life, and increasing cell capacity. Both LiMn2O9 will be doped with Na to define the magnitude of the common alkali effect on cathode performance. Reaction procedures will be modified to increase efficiency, enhance product quality, and reduce costs. Cycling studies with the new, in-house Li methide-based electrolyte in both parallel plate laboratory test vehicles as well as coin cells will determine power output and short-term cyclability. Anticipated Benefits: This program will provide a low-cost, high-performance cathode material for compact 4V lithium-ion rechargeable batteries designed for use in portable electronic devices and electric vehicles.