Lithium-ion batteries - Cathodes

Lithium insertion materials are common as cathodes in rechargeable Li-ion batteries. Both structure and properties of these materials are crucial to the function of the complete battery. Our research covers a wide range of aspects on cathode materials:

• The energy available depends on how much lithium can be extracted reversibly. Polyanionic cathodes such as lithium iron silicate (Li2FeSiO4) is a promising cathode material with high capacity and low cost.
• Charge and discharge properties can be affected by particle size and morphology of the electrode materials. We synthesise and characterise a number of nano-structured cathode materials using different techniques.
• The lifetime of a battery depends on reactions between the electrodes and the electrolyte. We use Photoelectron Spectroscopy (PES) to study how side-reactions affect the cathode surface and interface.
• Theoretical calculations, especially DFT calculations, can help rationalise the structure, diffusion mechanisms, and dopant effects. This will also provide some atomic level understanding and functionality.
  

Funding

• VINNOVA
• Swedish Research Council (VR)
• Swedish Energy Agency (STEM)