Electrolyte solution in use for the next generation 5-V class Li-ion battery

To increase the cruising distance of the electric vehicle, it is necessary to increase the energy density of the Li-ion cell. Research efforts are being vigorously made on new materials to increase the electrode energy capacity and the operating voltage worldwide.
Specially Appointed Prof. Dr. Fujinami, et al., Shizuoka University have developed an organic electrolyte, which operates under high voltage of 4 V, which is increased by 1 V when compared with the conventional battery cell. The organic electrolyte is the first in the world.
The electrolyte has a property of flame retardant, leading to increase of safety.
An additional advantageous feature of the organic electrolyte is that it uses boric acid. This material is cheap. The result is battery cost reduction.
Details of the study will be presented in the Battery NEDO session, which will start from November 30, 2009.
Electrolyte solution:
This unique electrolyte solution was formed in a manner that different electrolyte solutions are mixed to form a liquid, and lithium salt was dissolved into the liquid.
The electrolyte solution exhibits high ion conductivity and its lithium ion transport number is large.
(Written based on press release from NEDO)