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Flame Retardant Electrolytes for Li-Ion Batteries--EIC Laboratories, Inc., 111 Downey Street, Norwood, MA 02062-2612; 781-769-9450
Dr. Dhamasena Peramunage, Principal Investigator
Dr. A.C. Makrides, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-99ER82781
Amount: $747,684
The batteries of electric or hybrid electric automobiles may be damaged in an accident. Therefore, for maximum safety, these batteries should contain flame retardant or non flammable electrolytes. This project will develop flame retardant electrolytes for Li-ion batteries offering significantly improved safety in terms of low flammability, electrochemical performance comparable to existing state of the art electrolytes, and the ability to be easily incorporated into existing Li-ion battery technology. The Phase I project demonstrated the feasibility of combining, in the same electrolyte, highly flame retardant behavior and compatibility with Li-ion cell anodes and cathodes. This was achieved by adding commercially available and newly synthesized flame retardant solvents to presently used carbonate solvent blends. The Phase II project will synthesize several new classes of fire retardants and investigate their usefulness in high voltage Li-ion cells. The most promising will be demonstrated in complete Li-ion cells.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Flame retardant electrolytes should greatly increase the safety of Li-ion batteries, especially in applications where physical damage to the battery may occur. This includes batteries for electric or hybrid electric vehicles, boats, airplanes, and portable tools, as well as portable electronic devices that are in close proximity to people, such as laptop computers, telephones, and infrared goggles.