Realizing of Earth-Abundant, Mn-Rich Cathodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

The development of sustainable materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIB) is of critical importance, especially considering the significant, ever-growing demand for energy storage technologies. Lithium- and manganese-rich (LMR) oxides are of great interests because of their inherently high capacities/energies and the potential economic benefits associated with earth-abundant manganese-based compositions. However, despite their attractive properties, LMR commercialization has been hindered by several challenges. In this presentation we will explore these challenges across length-scales, spanning from the atomic to the cell level, and consider the correlated effects observable in electrochemical cells. Detailed synthesis studies will be presented concerning morphological control of LMR cathode precursors; complex local structure will be discussed and linked to properties that are unique to this class of cathodes; and finally, techno-economic modeling will be used to evaluate the potential of an LMR system – developed at Argonne National Laboratory – for practical implementation in large-format EV cells. The work presented herein represents research and development efforts led by Argonne National Laboratory within the Vehicle Technologies Office, Earth-abundant Cathode Active Materials (EaCAM) consortium. This effort endeavors to bridge the knowledge gap across various length-scales, from atomic-level intricacies to broader cell-level implications, to innovate, and enhance the sustainability of energy storage technologies.