Prada Silvy R., Conner S., Tan Y., Ferguson J., Manning A.J.
SouthWest NanoTechnologies, US
Keywords: carbon nanotube, conductive network, energy capacity, lithium ion battery cathode, specialty multiwalled
To realize the potential benefits of incorporating CNT materials in next generation cathodes for Li-ion batteries, we present in this paper the results of incorporating into Li-ion batteries a new generation of SWeNT’s Specialty Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (SMWTM), specifically designed to form efficient and robust conductive networks at lower weight percent loadings than any other carbon material. Standard battery performance tests were conducted with this new CNT material and the results were compared under the same experimental conditions with typical conductive carbon material. The results show that 1 wt% SMWTM CNT can replace 6 wt% conductive carbon, resulting in improved cycle life. Other benefits include increased specific energy, improved performance in rate capability, and lower impedance in high power electrodes. These performance benefits are attributed to an optimal control of CNT structure (morphology, higher aspect ratio (L/D), fewer number of walls, lower structural defects) and high levels of purity. From these results, it is clear that SMWTM CNTs are promising materials for next generation advanced Li-ion battery cathodes.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2012: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 575 - 578
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Energy Storage
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6276-9