Metal Halides in Li-Ion Batteries

There is a critical need for improved electrical energy storage in terms of capacity, voltage, recharge time, safety and cost for a renewable energy grid, practical electric vehicle technology, and future portable energy technology. One approach under consideration to overcome current limitations in lithium ion batteries is to utilize a multielectron conversion electrode. [i] Much focus has been placed on the use of metal fluorides for secondary batteries, due to promising cell voltages and chemistry. Here we present recent work looking at the use of metal chlorides, and understanding the mechanism of lithiation and delithiation.

 [i] Gao, X.-P.; Yang, H.-X.; “Multielectron reaction materials for high energy density batteries”, Energy Environ. Sci. 3 (2010) 174-189.