Inorganic Polymer Nanocomposite Cathode for Long Cycle Life Lithium - Sulfur Batteries, Phase I

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a hybrid composite structure of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with a class of polysulfide for lithium-sulfur rechargeable batteries on a Phase I program. This cathode provides safety, improved cycle-life, and high capacity at a competitive cost. Crystalline MoS2 is low cost and has a theoretical capacity of 335 mAh/g but it has a low conductivity. The nanocomposite design provides a synergistic improvement in conductivity and electrochemical cycling as a result of the layered MoS2 structure, provided by the intercalation of polysulfide. In the Phase I program, PSI will demonstrate a technology readiness level of 3 with a cathode energy density of greater than 350 mAh/g (800 Wh/kg) using 2 mAh cells. These performance goals will result in an overall battery energy density of 350 Wh/kg. In the Phase II program, PSI will increase cell size to 250 mAh and optimize cell design to further improve cycle life.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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