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“Ni-Less” Cathodes for High Energy Density, Intermediate Temperature Na-NiCl2 Batteries

Journal Article · · Advanced Materials Interfaces
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  1. Electrochemical Materials and Systems Group, Energy and Environmental Directorate, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland WA 99352 USA
  2. Materials Research Division, Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, Pohang 37673 South Korea

Among various battery technologies being considered for stationary energy storage applications, sodium-metal halide (Na-MH) batteries have become one of the most attractive candidates because of the abundance of raw materials, long cycle life, high energy density, and superior safety. However, one of issues limiting its practical application is the relatively expensive nickel (Ni) used in the cathode. In the present work, we focus on of efforts to develop new Ni-based cathodes, and demonstrate that a much higher specific energy density of 405 Wh/kg (23% higher than state-of-the-art Na-MH batteries) can be achieved at an operating temperature of 190oC. Furthermore, 15% less Ni is used in the new cathode than that in conventional Na-NiCl2 batteries. Long-term cycling tests also show stable electrochemical performance for over 300 cycles with excellent capacity retention (~100%). The results in this work indicate that these advances can significantly reduce the raw material cost associated with Ni (a 31% reduction) and promote practical applications of Na-MH battery technologies in stationary energy storage systems.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
1455259
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-130933; TE1400000
Journal Information:
Advanced Materials Interfaces, Journal Name: Advanced Materials Interfaces Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 5; ISSN 2196-7350
Publisher:
Wiley-VCH
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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