Objectif
This joint research project focuses on the development of new synthesis routes for novel electrode material for rechargeable solid state lithium batteries of the rocking-chair or swing type.
This type of battery comprises a solid electrolyte which exhibits fast lithium ion conduction and no electronic conductivity. The material can be an inorganic solid electrolyte or a polymer. The cathodes of this type of battery usually comprise mixed oxides like LiMn2O4, LiNiO2 and LiCoO2 which can intercalate lithium reversibly and are considered to be state-of-the-art cathode materials. Recently, it has been discovered that the ceramic material BC2N exhibits mixed conductivity when lithium is intercalated into its graphite-type crystal structure. This promising material will be studied. During synthesis by combustion-wave methods it is expected that as a spin-off ceramic materials such as BN, B4C, and probably C3N4 can also be synthesised. BN and B4C are expected to be able to intercalate lithium as well. C3N4 is a structural ceramic which has a hardness exceeding that of diamond. The properties of these materials have been calculated and recently researchers from North-western University have synthesised thin films of these materials. In this project the focus will be on cathode materials.
In the state-of-the-art solid state lithium batteries lithium foil is used as an anode. Because of the reactivity of lithium in air these batteries need to be assembled in argon-filled glove boxes, which makes the battery expensive. It has recently been discovered by VARTA that several types of carbon, such as turbostratic carbon, can intercalate lithium. The anode material, C6Lix is currently being investigated. In the group of Professor Frolov amorphous, and possibly x-ray amorphous, carbon has been made by flame pyrolis of fluor hydrocarbons. Like BC2N, these anode materials can be handled under ambient conditions.
In this joint research project the synthesis of the anode materials BC2N and different carbons will be studied using combustion wave and shock wave methods. In addition, the relations between structure, microstructure and lithium ion diffusion in the anode materials will be studied.
Thème(s)
Appel à propositions
Data not availableRégime de financement
Data not availableCoordinateur
2628 BL Delft
Pays-Bas