New generation of solid state batteries

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Since the 90's, rechargeable Li-ion batteries are the most widely used for energy storage. However, today's most performing cells have almost reached their intrinsic limits while the demand in terms of performances and safety is still increasing. Available commercial batteries may not be able to meet the increasing needs of the emerging applications (electric vehicles, storage of sustainable energy...), or even more specific applications with strong added value. In this context, it is necessary to develop advanced battery technologies with characteristics such as high energy densities, long life, low production cost, little or no maintenance and a high degree of safety. Solid state Li-ion batteries may withstand such requirements if we consider the possibility to use high potential materials, to work at high temperature or to design specific cell geometry. Up to now the development of such technology has faced assembly problems essentially due to the brittle mechanical aspects of the ceramics. The innovative and key aspect of the program lies in the development of solid state batteries with an original cell design to get around the ceramic fragility. To reach the objectives, we will begin by the development of good conducting electrolytes. The best materials will then be used to optimize composite electrodes by a thorough control of the formulation/processes. Solid state batteries will be assembled using the electrolytes as developed and composite electrodes to evaluate their performances following standards defined by our industrial partner. An in-depth study of the aging processes of composite electrodes and cells will be undertaken using different microscopy imaging, spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques. The challenge of this program is to develop and to test prototypes with high volumetric and gravimetric energy densities (> 400 Wh/kg and 1000 Wh/L) at the end of the 5-years. The successful development of high energy solid state batteries will stimulate the economy of EV industry, assure the quality of our environment and contribute to the commitment of Canada to limit its greenhouse gas emission.**