Cobalt-free high-energy cathode material for lithium-ion cells
This technology covers improved cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries that are designed without cobalt, a costly and ethically controversial metal. The cathodes use a doped crystalline structure (LiMO2) that delivers better energy density, longer cycle life, faster charging, lower self-discharge, and improved thermal safety compared to standard cathodes. The dopants are introduced through specific methods that smooth out voltage behavior during charging and discharging, which is a known weakness in high-nickel cathode chemistries. The result is a cathode material that competes with or exceeds current commercial options while avoiding cobalt supply chain risks.
What you could build
A cathode active material (powder or coated electrode) sold to battery cell manufacturers or licensed to EV and energy storage companies seeking cobalt-free, high-performance cells; primary buyers would be battery makers supplying automotive OEMs and grid storage integrators.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and Navy/DoD facilities in Virginia with interest in safe, high-energy battery packs for vehicles and portable power, plus Virginia-based energy storage startups or Dominion Energy grid storage programs.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Feng LIN, Linqin MU, James D, STEINER
- Filed
- Patent pending — filed December 28, 2021
- Status
- Application
- Publication number
- US20220263086A1
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.