A new project has been launched by the European research consortium known as the SOMABAT (Solid materials for high power Li polymer batteries) with the aim of creating more environmentally friendly and higher power Li polymer batteries.
The consortium will create novel and recyclable solid materials that can used as anode, cathode and solid polymer electrolyte; as well as cycle life analysis; and new alternatives to recycle the different components of the battery.
It is hoped that a battery will be created with an energy density of up to 220Wh/kg. The total project is €5.04million with the European Commission contributing €3.7million.
Nano-structured cathode materials based on lithium iron and manganese phosphate will be researched as the material is thought to offer maximum energy storage in minimum space with improved safety and it is environmentally friendly.
In addition, the consortium will look at anode materials based on synthetic carbon and others that are obtained from agricultural wastes. The energy density will be improved by around 30 per cent compared to carbon based conventional anodes. There will also be an examination of recyclability alternatives for the used components to help achieve a more environmentally friendly battery of which at least 50 per cent will be recyclable.
