Photo-induced heating of Lithium-ion batteries for Low Temperature Operation

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are currently the most versatile all-purpose energy storage solution. However, LIB performance is strongly affected by temperature. In particular, at sub-zero temperatures, LIB performance is dramatically reduced.

This is detrimental for LIB deployment in cold climates found in Northern Europe or high-altitude mountainous regions and hinders their widespread use in airplanes, high-altitude aerial vehicles and military and aerospace applications. The PLuTO project aims to develop a new viable approach to improve LIB performance at low temperatures.

To this end, the PLuTO project will forge a photo-induced heating route for low temperature operation of liquid electrolyte batteries by incorporating in-situ synthesized noble metal nanoparticles suspended in the electrolyte, harnessing the nanoparticles capability to efficiently and quickly heat up when illuminated by light.

Moreover, with a proper distribution of nanoparticles, uniform heating will guarantee a safe operation of the cell.

The PLuTO project aims at achieving a first-time demonstration of photo-induced heating in a liquid electrolyte battery by using a transparent electrochemical cell with a LiFePO4 cathode (chosen due to its recognized stability at extreme temperatures).

A balanced approach between computational modelling, chemical synthesis, fabrication and characterization will be implemented to investigate the influence of photo-induced heating in the electrochemical processes of the LIB cell and identify design rules for a suitable practical implementation in industrial/commercial applications.

Finally, the research proposed within PLuTO is strategically positioned at the intersection between the optical-thermal-electrochemical fields and provides an excellent opportunity for the researcher to come out as a leading figure at the forefront of battery research, contributing to European competitiveness in the battery field.