A Mixed Metal Oxide Anode Material for High Energy Density Li-ion Batteries

50129-98-I A Mixed Metal Oxide Anode Material for High Energy Density Li-ion Batteries--Yardney Technical Products, Inc., 82 Mechanic Street, Pawcatuck, CT 06379-2154; (860) 599-1100 Dr. Grant M. Ehrlich, Principal Investigator Dr. Thomas B. Reddy, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82717 Amount: $74,980 Viable electric or hybrid vehicles require improved batteries which offer greater capacity, cycle life, and power capability with reduced size and weight. The most energy dense rechargeable batteries currently available are lithium (Li-ion) batteries. A limiting component of Li-ion batteries is the capacity, stability, and rate capability of the electrode materials, in particular the anode material. This project will develop a novel, high capacity mixed metal oxide Li-ion anode material and demonstrate the material with a high capacity LiCoxNil-xO2 cathode material in a Li-ion battery. The scale-ability of the proposed prismatic design will be demonstrated and prototype cells with capacity up to 100Amp-hour will be fabricated. The cells will incorporate advanced materials to minimize cell weight and volume while maximizing the electrochemical performance. The cells will be tested to enable evaluation for electric vehicle applications. Phase I will develop a novel high energy density, mixed metal oxide anode material and a Li-ion battery which utilizes this material. Mixed metal oxides will be synthesized and evaluated and anode materials will be developed using optimal oxides. Prismatic 3Amp-hour Li-ion cells will be fabricated and tested to demonstrate the electrical performance possible with the materials developed in the prismatic design. Ternary electrolytes with extended high and low temperature capability will also be incorporated into the design. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This technology will be developed for electric and hybrid vehicles. Other applications include video cameras, computers, cell phones and radios. Medical applications include portable defibrillators, drug delivery units, and neurological stimulators for chronic pain treatment. Additional applications include electric lawn mowers, portable vacuum cleaners, and lighted displays._