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Advanced Single Ion-Conducting Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium-Ion Batteries--Covalent Associates, Inc., 10 State Street, Woburn, MA  01801-6820; 781-938-1140

Dr. Erik Reddington, Principal Investigator

Dr. K. M. Abraham, Business Official

DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-00ER82983

Amount:  $99,997

 

A single ion-conducting polymer electrolyte that conducts Li-ions would provide Li and Li-ion batteries with improved power density, safety, and versatility over a liquid electrolyte.  At present, no single ion-conducting polymer electrolytes exist that have an adequate ionic conductivity for use in ambient temperature Li or Li-ion batteries.  We seek to develop a new single ion-conducting polymer electrolyte that will promote high ionic conductivity by virtue of the unique anion structure tethered to the polymer backbone.  We believe that this novel polymer will display an ionic conductivity approaching 1 mS/cm at 25°C, such that it can be used in Li and Li-ion batteries for applications at nominal temperatures.  In Phase I, we will synthesize and characterize the monomer, which will be followed by the synthesis and characterization of the polymer electrolyte.  The electrolyte will be tested for ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability, and performance in Li and Li-ion cells.

 

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:  A successful project will result in the development of a new polymer electrolyte for use in Li and Li-ion batteries.  These lightweight batteries would be useful in the cellular communications field and for laptop computers.  They could have widespread applications as power sources for electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles.  In the military, these batteries could be used in specialized mobile power applications, such as in communication devices and unmanned aerial vehicles.