Synthesis of Nano-Structured Materials and Their Applications in Lithium Ion Batteries

Abstract

Among the current rechargeable battery technologies, lithium-ion battery (LIBs) is the best candidate due to its high energy density (650 Wh/l; 210 Wh/kg), which surpasses any other competing battery technologies by at least a factor of 2.5. Presently, it stands in the peripheral of the electric vehicle (EV) market and stationary back-up power supplies. However the cost, safety and long-term stability of LIB?s still remain a concern. Most of the above features extensively depend upon the extrinsic and intrinsic nature of the electrode materials. Therefore, it is paramount to find an alternative for the expensive and toxic current generation electrode materials (LiCoO2 and specialty graphite). This is a mandatory task in addressing the challenges that lie ahead and to envisage long lasting success of LIB. In this perception, this thesis investigates and discusses some novel electrode materials (both cathode and anode) for potential application in LIBs.