High Rate, High Capacity Anodes for Rechargeable Li Batteries--T/J Technologies, Inc., P.O. Box 2150, 3850 Research Park Drive, Suite A, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-2150; (734) 213-1637
Dr. John M. Miller, Principal Investigator
Mr. Leslie H. Alexander, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82687
Amount: $75,000

Higher energy storage and lower cost rechargeable batteries are needed to advance widespread commercial adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles. Although tin-based oxide materials have exhibited very attractive reversible charge storage capacities, they also have high irreversible capacities. This project will develop a related new material that should significantly reduce the irreversible capacity. In Phase I, precursor chemistries and reactive conditions will be varied to produce new candidate electrode materials. The composition and microstructure of these materials will be determined. Test cells will be prepared and subjected to standard performance evaluations to determine the reversible and irreversible capacity and cyclability of the new electrode materials.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: High energy density electrode materials will lead to vehicle propulsion battery packs that offer long cruising ranges. Higher energy density rechargeable batteries are also being aggressively sought for lap top computers, cellular communications, and video cameras.