A Series of Carbophosphate Compounds, Method of Synthesis and Their Application as Cathode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries

Technology

Through electronic structure modifications, this invention uses phosphate groups to raise the operating voltage of a given transition metal ion. In some cases, phosphate groups increase stability by binding oxygen more strongly in the compound. The use of relatively light polyanionic groups, such as carbonate groups, with the presence of phosphate groups can lead to relatively higher energy densities. As a result, one can create lighter yet higher energy density lithium-ion batteries through the use of carbophosphate compounds as cathode materials.

Problem Addressed

The demand for lightweight, high energy density batteries to power vehicles and portable electronic devices continues to rise. Although many compounds have been studied for use in batteries and other applications, it remains difficult to identify those compounds with the desired thermal stability and high energy densities. Accordingly, improvements in cathode materials in batteries and other applications are still needed. This invention uses polyanionic groups to create light, yet high energy density batteries to meet the desired energy demands while keeping manufacturing costs low.  

Advantages

• Compounds with polyanionic groups, such as carbonate and borate, are generally more stable than oxides and may release less 02 at elevated temperatures, an important safety feature for lithium-ion batteries
• Lower- weight polyanionic groups may be useful for higher energy and power densities