At present, Li-ion technology is the leading battery chemistry to enable the large-scale adoption of electric vehicles. However, meeting the demands of hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles requires higher specific and volumetric energy density, faster charge rates, longer cycle life, and improved safety. A particular focus is on achieving high power density without compromising energy density. This dissertation seeks to determine the phenomena that couple energy and power density and to develop solutions to simultaneously increase both. An engineered electrode design is proposed that improves Li-ion transport in thick high energy density electrodes, while suppressing the deleterious formation of Li metal dendrites during charging. Furthermore, a novel hybrid cell design is proposed employing Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) ceramic electrolyte membrane technology, which acts as a physical barrier to prevent Li metal dendrite propagation. The overarching goal of this dissertation is to develop materials and materials processing technology to improve the performance and safety of Li-ion batteries.
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