Navitas proposes a novel approach to produce high energy, high power lithium batteries. Our innovative approach will implement multilayer electrodes with gradient pore structure throughout the thickness of the electrode. The graded electrode structure will enhance lithium ion transport by transitioning from a smaller, narrower pore size distribution at the separator interface to a larger, broader pore size distribution at the current collector interface. The innovative electrodes will be fabricated using water-based binder. In Phase I, Navitas will individually demonstrate the benefits of each of the following advances: dual slot-die coating, advanced drying technologies, and electrode additives in the fabrication of multilayer electrodes with gradient pore structure. Feasibility will be demonstrated at full-cell level using >200mAh pouch cells. In Phase II, Navitas integrate the three Phase I advances and scale up the integrated process for pilot production of multilayer electrodes. Phase II will develop 3.0Ah prototype cells and demonstrate the functionality over a wide-temperature range, under select environmental, storage, and cycling conditions. In addition, Navitas will initiate the scale-up and design processes and develop a preliminary cost structure for the production of battery systems >250 Wh/kg and >4kW/kg.
