(Invited) Earth-Abundant Cathode Active Materials: Research and Development on Mn-Rich Oxides

Abstract

The United States Department of Energy (DoE) has recently released its vision for the future of batteries in the United States, titled The National Blueprint for Lithium Batteries. This document outlines the key areas of investment most critical to enabling a more secure and independent ecosystem around lithium-based batteries for the U.S. and is heavily influenced by the ideas of sustainable technological development. In this regard, earth-abundant cathode active materials are particularly attractive.Although Ni is considered an earth-abundant element and it plays a critical role in high-performance vehicle applications, concerns over Ni demand and the stability of supply chains have already surfaced and the cost-effectiveness of high-Ni cathodes could remain an issue. In addition, the environmental impact of increased Ni processing to meet demand, specifically of low-grade ores, should be addressed.Mn is substantially more abundant in the earth’s crust than Ni or Co and significantly less expensive. In addition, Mn has a rich history and still promising future in energy storage applications.1 This presentation will explore research and development efforts within the DoE’s Vehicle Technologies Office ‘Deep Dive’ program, Earth-abundant Cathode Active Materials (EaCAM), led by Argonne National Laboratory. This seven-lab consortium is focused on enabling new designs in high Mn, low Ni, Co-free cathodes towards diversifying the portfolio of viable materials for commercial applications.1. A. Gutierrez, D. Tewari, J. Chen, V. Srinivasan, M. Balasubramanian, and Jason R. Croy, Earth-Abundant, Mn-Rich Cathodes for Vehicle Applications and Beyond: Overview of Critical Barriers, 2023 J. Electrochem. Soc. 170030509DOI 10.1149/1945-7111/acbee4