IPN - Instituto Pedro Nunes

IPN     IPN Incubadora

ActiveCath
Active energy storage using 3D lithium-ion thin-film cathodes: a new approach with sputtering technology

Challenge

ActiveCath seeks to develop a new technology in the field of Li batteries, in line with the use of more sustainable materials, in line with the objectives of the Green Deal. In addition, environmental and social challenges, such as the deal footprint, performance and durability, reuse and recycling, are present in the development of this project.

Solution

The main objective of ActiveCATh is to develop an active and multifunctional HE-NCM thin-film cathode with high energy density in 3D through a new scientific approach of sputtering, monitoring its climate impact through life cycle analysis.

Objectives, Activities and Results expected / achieved

ActiveCATh's innovation consists of establishing a new emerging battery technology using a new scientific sputtering approach to develop thin film cathodes composed of porous 3D HE-NCM thin films with a functional Ni concentration gradient.

The project encompasses the following developments:
(1) Deposition of 3D HE-NCM thin films by sputtering.
(2) Study of the electrochemical life cycle of the HE-NCM thin film cathode.
(3) Evaluation of the life cycle of the HE-NCM cathode.

Achieved Objectives:
(i) High-Efficiency Cathode: A 3D HE-NCM thin-film cathode was developed, featuring stabilised morphology, chemical composition, phase distribution, and electrolyte-cathode interface, exhibiting multifunctionalities.
(ii) Emerging Battery Technology: A new cathode technology was established through the innovative combination of the developed cathodes with the sputtering technique.
(iii) Reduction of Materials and Positive Impact: The results obtained have guided the development of new lithium batteries, reducing the use of materials in cathode production and contributing to more sustainable resource management.

Project Reference

2022.04149.PTDC

Funding


Intervention Region

Portugal

Total Investment

49.942,87

IPN Investment

49.942,87

Total Eligible

49.942,87

IPN Eligible

49.942,87

National public financial support – Total

49.942,87

National public financial support – IPN

49.942,87

Duration

24 Months

Start Date

2023-03-01

End Date

2025-02-28

Approval Date

2022-07-27

Consortium

 Instituto Pedro Nunes

Keywords

Sustainable energy;
Layered NCM cathodes;
Electrochemistry;
LCA analysis.