TIAX LLC — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: High voltage lithium-ion battery cathode materials do not cycle efficiently and rapidly lo

Description

High voltage lithium-ion battery cathode materials do not cycle efficiently and rapidly lose capacity at elevated temperatures. The lack of commercializable high voltage cathode materials impedes the implementation of high potential anodes that can safely and efficiently accept charging at very high rates. This limits the regenerative braking energy acceptance of lithium- ion batteries in HEVs, and limits the rapid recharge capability of lithium-ion batteries in PHEVs. For HEVs, this means lower efficiency and mileage, while in PHEVs this means less consumer appeal. TIAX is developing a novel high voltage Li-ion cathode chemistry with high cycling stability at elevated temperatures. The novel chemistry enables vehicle batteries with higher power as well as allowing for safe and efficient rapid recharge of Li-ion batteries with the least possible impact to energy density. The TIAX cathode technology will have high commercial value in power tools, HEV batteries and PHEV batteries because it will enable lithium-ion batteries to have rapid charging capability and the ability to regeneratively capture a high amount of vehicle braking energy without sacrificing the potential for very low battery weight and volume offered by lithium-ion technology.