Nanostructured High Voltage Cathode Materials for Advanced Lithium-ion Batteries

High performance lithium-ion batteries are needed for advanced transportation technologies. To satisfy the rapidly increasing performance demands for these applications, currently available lithium-ion batteries need to be improved. The limitations of state-of-the art Li-ion batteries include limited energy and power densities, potential fire hazard, and short cycle life. All of these characteristics are strongly determined by the limited properties of the currently employed electrodes (low capacity and low rate capability) and electrolytes (narrow electrochemical window, narrow liquid phase range, flammability, toxicity, and volatility). This project will develop high performance nanocomposite electrodes and combine them with environmentally friendly ionic liquid electrolytes, in order to develop high performance, safe, and long-lived lithium-ion batteries for advanced transportation applications. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the transportation application, the improved Li-ion batteries should find use in other commercial sectors and the Federal government, including utility industries, consumer electronics, medical electronics, and military applications.