New discoveries in Li-Ion batteries have enhanced their autonomies together with their wide acceptance by users while tantalizing advanced materials research. One of the greatest advances made by our group had been the discovery of cumulating cationic and anionic redox processes within the same material, hence enabling to prepare compounds having double capacity. Numerous successful efforts have been made, through our ARPEMA project (Advanced ERC grant), towards understanding the science beyond such new phenomena. However, new discoveries always call for the need to develop of new characterization techniques capable of tracking the interplay between a new chemistry and the associated side reactions during cycling that may include, gas release, transport and kinetic properties.
The development of characterization devices capable of shining light on new anionic redox reaction mechanisms are challenging since they must be done under moisture-free environment together with the use of the proper hardware resistant against the highly oxidation power of Li-rich NMC materials containing peroxo-like species. Towards this goal, our approach in this project has been based on the combination on the experience that we have with our group on anionic redox together with implementation of previously identified and patented characterization tools.
Under this project, we were able to develop proof of concept of a set of characterization devices especially adapted for the exploration of compounds showing anionic redox but also compatible with various other energy storage technologies. For most of the devices, we were already able to achieve designs suitable for large-scale manufacturing, paving the way for a commercialization. A startup company was created in order to further develop and commercialize these devices. We have also identified, under this project, a valuable network of suppliers and prototyping/fabrication subcontractors that are key to ensure the business model of the company and support the continuation of the project.
