This objective of the work proposed here is to develop new methods of formulation and fabrication for solid electrolyte and electrode materials with the goal of producing an advanced generation of lithium batteries. As secondary batteries, the designs proposed here would have energy densities of up to 250 Wh/kg, with self-discharge rates no greater than 2% per year. Use of solid inorganic electrolyte would result in a very safe battery as compared with designs that use liquid electrolytes. The proposal team has recently developed new types of the secondary Li - FeS2 batteries that feature polymer and solid inorganic vitreous electrolytes. A central goal of the proposed work is to develop secondary lithium batteries utilizing thin film electrodes comprising sulfide-containing materials and solid inorganic electrolytes. Sulfide containing material (FeS2) also has an extremely high capacity when used in a primary cell; up to 880 A.h/kg. Secondary Li-FeS2 batteries with polymer or solid inorganic electrolyte cathodes have discharge capacities of up to 400Ah/kg. Anticipated results of this work would also find beneficial use in production of other small-scale power supply systems including fuel cells and solar cells. Anticipated Benefits/Commercial Applications: Anticipated benefits of the work proposed here include development safe lithium batteries with extremely high energy densities. It is the full intent of the Ener1 to eventually develop and produce these designs for the benefit the US government and the military These new battery designs and will eventually be of great benefit to value to the commercial battery user community, as well.
Keywords: thin film lithium battery, solid inorganic electrolyte, polymer electrolyte, thermo-vacuum condensation
