Polymer Electrolyte through Enzyme Catalysis for High Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

This SBIR Phase I project has for a goal the development of a solid-state polymer electrolyte for use in lithium-ion batteries via enzyme-catalyzed polymerization of monomers substituted with long ether segments. The high content of ether segments such as poly (ethylene oxide) or poly(ethylene glycol) is expected to yield high ionic conductivities when combined with the proper lithium salt. The solid-state rechargeable batteries using such an electrolyte offer potentially greater energy densities and a better cycle life than most conventional systems such as Ni-Cad or NiMH batteries, and eliminates the dangers associated with the use of liquid electrolytes. The Phase II effort will consist of the fabrication and characterization of the polymer. This should yield high quality films with a good dimensional and thermal stability and mechanical integrity necessary as a separator characteristic. The polymer's stability should provide the advantage of operating in a wide temperature range while maintaining its high conductivity. The Phase II program will focus on the optimization of the successful electrolyte, testing in lithium-ion batteries, and devising a scheme for large scale production of high performance, safe, environmentally benign energy sources for powering a variety of military