Novel, High Energy Density Intermetallic Anode Material for Li-Ion Batteries

76075S The current classes of anode and cathode materials used for Li-ion batteries do not have sufficient energy density to meet many advanced application requirements. Intermetallic anodes have the potential to triple or quadruple the energy density over current carbon anodes, but have not been able to achieve the cycle life required in an economically viable manner. This project will develop an engineered intermetallic anode that will have a similar cycle life to that of current carbon materials, but with a much greater energy density. The final product will be in powdered form, and will be completely compatible with current Li-ion manufacturing processes. In Phase I, several approaches to make the novel materials were developed and evaluated in coin cells. Much greater cycling efficiency and cycle life was demonstrated with these materials. The best materials were scaled up to make 0.2 Ah cells with LiCoO2 cathodes. Phase II will develop and evaluate a number of the Phase I approaches and process steps for making the high capacity anode. The best synthetic method will be scaled up and used to make large high-energy, high-power cells for evaluation and demonstration. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The anode material should allow the production of rechargeable Li-ion batteries with at least double the current energy density of commercially available cells, without an increase in cost. Applications should include electric and hybrid electric vehicles (including automobiles, scooters, and bikes), stationary backup power, and portable power applications (e.g., cell phones, computers, and PDAs) for both civilian and military use.