Development of Li-Ion cells/batteries for low temperature applications – Year two

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are the leading candidate for powering hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and pure electric vehicles (EVs) due to their high energy density properties compared to other battery technologies. However, their performance is substantially reduced at temperatures below 0 °C, posing a technical barrier for market penetration of HEVs and EVs. The root cause behind this poor outcome is largely attributed to low conductivity of the electrolyte as well as low lithium-ion diffusivity. The objective of this research project is to explore and identify an electrolyte formulation that will result in a cell capable of functioning at temperatures below 0 °C. The electrolyte will consist of a well-known lithium salt, lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6), dissolved in various mixtures of carbonate- and organosulfur-based solvents. Electrovaya plans to develop and commercialize a prototype cell from this investigation and integrate it into a battery module for EV applications.

Faculty Supervisor:

Alexander McLean

Student:

Jeremy Dang

Partner:

Electrovaya Corp

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Alternative energy

University:

Program: