Opportunity: Materials to Improve Li-ion Battery Performance

The objective of this work is to explore new electrolyte and electrode materials to improve the performance of Lithium-ion batteries. Materials may be developed to increase the durability of Lithium-ion batteries for use in extreme temperature environments. Performance under high rate of charge and discharge may be enhanced by developing and studying new material compositions. The energy density and safety may also be improved by developing new cathodes or anodes which operate at higher voltage or have higher capacity for lithium insertion. The performer will synthesize new materials, fabricate new formulations, build test coin cells and measure electrochemical performance. Battery galvanostatic charge and discharge cycling, voltammetry, and material synthesis methods may be utilized. Other physical characterization may also be done including elemental or structural analysis. The expected outcome is a better understanding of materials that can improve the performance of Li-ion batteries for Army uses.