Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 2

The scientific objective of the project is to develop the synthesis of alkali metals and silicon monoxide by*metallothermic reduction method. These high energy density materials will be used for the fabrication of new*generation of rechargeable battery anodes. The project provides for collaboration of two regional research*centers, the Laboratoire des technologies de l'énergie (LTE) of Hydro-Québec in Shawinigan and the Centre de*métallurgie du Québec (CMQ) of Cégep de Trois-Rivières for the development of a high-temperature reactor.*The materials studied will be, firstly, magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) for the furnace commissioning; and*then, silicon monoxide (SiO) and lithium (Li) for battery materials synthesis tests. HQ will use new anode*materials for the development of new electrochemical storage systems. The CMQ is interested in metallurgy of*light alloys and wishes to increase its expertise in the manufacturing domain thereof. The project will include*three students, one per year. Expected outcome is to develop two processes one for lithium and one for silicon*monoxide ready for a pilot plant scale. Project finality is the development of high energy density batteries*which is the key to transport electrification leading to greenhouse emission reduction.