Center for Electrochemical Science and Engineering:
Battery and Hydrogen Storage Research at the Center
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries have a very high energy density (>150 Wh/kg) and deliver up to 4 volts per cell (up to 300 W/kg) for high-drain applications. In spite of a wide potential market, these batteries are available commercially only in small sizes (AA or Type US18650) - e.g., those used in camcorders and portable phones. The major problem for scale-up is the interaction of highly energetic electrode materials with the battery electrolyte, which results in heat build-up inside the battery and severely limits performance.
Kilowatt-producing devices are needed for mobile power, including electric vehicles. To achieve this breakthrough in scale-up, research must produce engineering improvements, as well as new materials, to dissipate heat more effectively. Research at the center includes evaluation of new fibrous and composite materials to build pathways for heat dissipation. Since lithium-ion batteries use lithium compounds, carbon, metal oxides and organic liquids - all with different heat-conduction properties - the solution lies in knowing how to use the most efficient materials in the most efficient way to remove unwanted heat.
Nickel/metal hybrid batteries are available as button cells or small cylindrical cells for laptop computers and cellular phones. They are gradually replacing nickel/cadmium batteries for cordless power tools and portable electronic devices because of their higher power density, the absence of toxic components and potentially lower cost. As is the case with lithium batteries, the commercial impact of nickel/metal hybrid batteries depends to a large extent on control over thermal degradation problems.
Hydrides are alloys containing nickel, rare-earth metals, aluminum and manganese. Hydrogen storage capacity can be manipulated by choosing the right amorphous compositions. Alternative hydrogen storage media may be hydrides of aluminum and boron, carbon and certain organic compounds.
The center is involved in these and other aspects of battery and hydrogen storage research in cooperation with government laboratories and industry.
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