Alternate Title

Investigation of material composite Li3V2(PO4)3 with LiMn2-xNixO4 for Li-ion batteries

Advisor(s)

Sanjeev Mukerjee (1960-)

Contributor(s)

David E. (David Edward) Budil, Max Diem

Date of Award

2010

Date Accepted

5-2010

Degree Grantor

Northeastern University

Degree Level

M.S.

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department or Academic Unit

College of Arts and Sciences. Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology.

Keywords

Li-ion batteries, high energy density battery materials, cathode materials

Subject Categories

Electric power supplies to apparatus--Design and construction, Lithium cells--Technological innovations

Disciplines

Materials Chemistry | Organic Chemistry

Abstract

Today's mobile devices such as laptop computers, media players, cameras, and even cutting edge automobiles, require a new, more robust grade of Li-ion batteries as a power source. Much research is being done on producing high energy density battery materials, while trying to maintain safety and industrial feasibility.

Currently, most commercial Li-ion batteries use either LiCoO2 based, or LiMnO2 based materials. These materials are industry standard, but display short lifetime, low energy density, and possible safety hazards. Novel materials such as LiMn2-xNixO4 and Li3V2(PO4)3 have been proposed as possible candidates for a commercialized battery material. LiMn2-xNixO4 uses manganese, which is of low toxicity and it is abundant as a resource. This material is modified by nickel doping from LiMn2O4, to improve on its electrical conductivity and capacity. Li3V2(PO4)3 is another promising cathode material, contributing very high theoretical capacity of 197 mAh/g. Li3V2(PO4)3 is modified from LiV2O5, which exhibits a low voltage profile and short lifespan. The addition of the phosphate group increases the safety of the material substantially, while still allowing the Li-ions to be highly mobile.

Mechanically mixing two different cathode materials to form a composite, to be used in a battery is explored. Combined Li3V2(PO4)3 and LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 has promise as a cathode composite material, demonstrating a capacity of 126 mAh/g, with little capacity fading over time. Cycle profile shows expected Li-ions being extracted and reinserted in a common regime. Further research varying ratios, compositions, and methods can be explored. Composite cathode materials hold promise in that they can offer safe, affordable, high power solutions for consumer demands.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Rights Information

Copyright 2010

Rights Holder

Keeve Gurkin


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