Grant: Collaborative Research and Development Grants

There is a growing awareness that nanoscience and nanotechnology can have a profound impact on energy generation, storage, and utilization. Nanotechnology-based solutions are being developed for a wide range of energy problems such as: solar cells, hydrogen generation and storage, fuel cells and batteries. Dr. Sun's research will apply nanotechnology to address challenges in lithium lion batteries for energy storage. The objectives of this research are to understand the microstructure of LiFePO4 and basic carbon deposition on LiFePO4, and develop models for the LiFePO4/Carbon interface and deposition process for use in cathode for high-performance lithium-ion battery. We will develop methods to understand the roles of the impurity phase in LiFePO4 and reveal the basic C-deposition process and resulting structures on LiFePO4. Our increased understanding of the role of carbon and the impact of impurity phases on the LiFePO4 will help guide us in designing novel LiFePO4/C composite materials and improving their electrochemical performance and electrical conductivity. It is expected that this kind of highly conductive LiFePO4/C composite material can provide high specific capacity as well as a desirable rate capacity for large scale battery energy storage. The successful completion of this innovative research project could significantly lower the cost and enhance the performance of lithium-ion battery and therefore accelerate lithium ion batteries progress in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Phostech Lithium Inc. of Montreal (Phostech) as an industrial partner will support and be closely involved in this project. Phostech is recognized as a world leader in the design, development, manufacture and sale of advanced LiFePO4/C cathode materials for Li-Ion Batteries, which are widely used for EVs and HEVs, power tools and other applications all over the world. The innovative research will help Phostech to increase their global competitiveness and create new economic ventures. This project has great potential to contribute significantly both to the nanotechnology and energy and environmental sectors of Canada.