APPLICATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY:
- Lithium ion batteries for hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles
- Rechargeable batteries for consumer electronic, cordless tools, etc.
ADVANTAGES:
- Reduces fire hazard from flammable solvents
- No VOC emissions
- Scalable, low cost, continuous manufacturing process
ABSTRACT:
Berkeley Lab researchers led by Gao Liu have developed a lithium ion battery fabrication technology that will deliver stabilized lithium metal powder (SLMP®) to the surface of electrodes without using highly volatile and flammable solvents.
In addition to addressing battery manufacturers’ solvent flammability problem, the dry process attains fine control over the SLMP® deposition such that a precise, thin coating can be added to an electrode surface. The technology does not create SLMP® dust during the delivery process.
During the manufacture of advanced battery lithium-ion electrodes, SLMP® is added to the electrode surface to raise its Coulombic Efficiency and improve cycle performance. However, conventional manufacturing processes apply this powder using a slurry mixed with highly volatile and flammable solvents such as hexane and toluene. This new Berkeley Lab technology overcomes the limitations and safety concerns of the conventional process.
Note: Technology IB-3241, “Simplified Electrode Formation using SLMP® Doping of Lithium Ion Battery Electrodes,” describes the battery performance and manufacturing benefits of doping electrode materials with SLMP®, including reduced formation capacity loss and improved cycle life and safety.
DEVELOPMENT STAGE: Bench-scale prototype
STATUS: Issued U. S. Patent #10,186,705. Available for licensing or collaborative research.
REFERENCE NUMBER: 2013-190
