Novel, High Performance Li-Ion Cell

Current Li-ion technology offers the highest energy density of any rechargeable battery system. Unfortunately, Li-ion systems still do not meet the energy density and cost goals for emerging electric vehicle (EV) markets, including plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs). A new strategy to meeting these goals involves the selection of high capacity battery materials, which are currently incompatible with the conventional assembly of Li-ion cells in the discharged state, and using them in novel Li-ion cell designs. To implement this strategy, a method for introducing lithium into the cell must be developed. In Phase I, a unique source of lithium, for use in Li-ion cells assembled in the charged state, will be developed and used in the design and construction of new high-capacity, long-life Li-ion cells. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The development of high-capacity, long life Li-ion cells should meet the needs of a wide range of advanced applications in the automotive, telecommunications, and military supply industries. Some of these applications include electric and hybrid electric vehicles (including automobiles, scooters, and bikes), satellites, stationary backup power, and portable power applications (such as cell phones, computers, and PDAs) for both civilian and military use