Superlattice Power Inc. (SLAT.OB), located in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a pioneer in creating next-generation, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Superlattice will work close with Hybrid Technologies during this development stage. The superlattice structure is a revolutionary hexagonal design structure that accommodates more lithium and more energy. Even the elements and transition metals in the batteries make the company’s cathodes less costly, safer, and more environmentally friendly. Superlattice has developed a six-step project plan to take its technology to a mass-production scale.
The first step in the plan is to test and select subcontractors to synthesize the high-capacity cathode materials. The company will send samples to each subcontractor for characterization and performance evaluation. To be included in this preliminary step, each subcontractor will sign a non-disclosure agreement to protect the details of synthesizing, including cathode material preparation, cell assembly, anode materials, and separators associated with the Superlattice lithium-ion batteries. Five months have been allocated to complete this portion of the plan.
The second step will be to characterize the cathode materials through analytical and electrochemical techniques. Properties such as crystal structure, electronic conductivity, surface area and porosity are critical in the electrochemical performance of the electrodes in the batteries. The team will characterize the materials by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microsopy, BET surface area, EDS analysis, porosimetry, and particle size distribution in order to correlate chemical and physical properties with their electrochemical performances. A Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) technique will be used determine the thermal stability of the synthesized materials.
The X-ray diffraction will provide the information on the formation and changes of the crystal structure and minimum temperature. A low temperature is actually a key component in obtaining a high-surface-area material. Through EDS analysis, the team will obtain qualitative comparison data of different elements present on the surface of the oxides. Finally, the scanning electron micrographs, BET surface area measurements, and Hg-porosimetry will determine the particle size and morphology of the material. This second step of the plan is estimated to take about 7 months to complete.
The fabrication of cathodes is the third step in the overall plan. The fabrication of positive (cathode) electrodes with uniform loading and good mechanical integrity to ease electrolyte accessibility is essential. This portion of the plan should take between 6 and 7 months.
The fourth step of the plan will be to develop half-cells with the cathode materials and metallic lithium anode in electrolyte. Cylindrical cells of 18650 and/or prismatic 5±0.4 mm (Thick) X 34 mm X 50 mm will be fabricated at the start of this step. As this step continues to develop, the new lithium-ion batteries will be examined for high-ampere cells that will be used in hybrid and/or electric vehicles. Once a minimum increase of 10% to 20% above LiCoO2, or current commercially available cathode material, is achieved, the company will commence the fifth step in their plan, which is the evaluation and assessment of technical feasibility.
The preparation of a final report by a team from Superlattice and Hybrid Technologies will be the sixth and last step in the project plan. The report will include the experimental procedures, results, a detailed analysis of the results and recommendations for the future use of the technology.
Superlattice anticipates the entire project will take about one year to complete. As both presidential candidates have indicated the need for our nation to develop more efficient forms of energy, the Superlattice project plan will be able to provide consumers with a product in the future.
Let us hear your thoughts: Superlattice Power, Inc Message Board
